In a Nov. 16 presentation to the Round Rock City Council, Brad Wiseman, the City’s Director of Planning and Development Services, laid out recent progress made under Round Rock 2030 — the City’s comprehensive plan.
Adopted in June 2020, the plan has guided notable advancements in Round Rock’s growth and infrastructure development, as detailed in the fiscal year 2023 report. Wiseman’s presentation highlighted the strategic steps taken by the City in line with its long-term vision.
The City’s population increased by approximately 5,193 residents over the year, with a projected growth of 65,000 additional residents by 2040. This growth has been accompanied by an increase in housing units, particularly in high-density multifamily housing, responding to the rising population needs.
Round Rock’s Planning and Development Services also recently conducted a study analyzing growth in specific areas, evaluating vacant land availability and different density scenarios to prepare for the City’s future population distribution and development plans.
Round Rock 2030 also includes 12 guiding policies, each with specific implementation strategies. Here’s a brief overview of the progress made over the past year:
Quality of Life
- The passage of the May 2023 G.O. Bond will result in new hike/bike trails, new amenities in Old Settlers Park, remodels of existing recreation centers, construction of new parks and more.
- New Round Rock Public Library opened in January 2023, featuring extensive resources and community programs.
Economic Development
- Kalahari Resorts recently completed a $5 million expansion and already exceeds 10-year revenue estimates.
- Round Rock Defense Innovation Fund was established to support defense innovation-focused startups.
- Economic Development Agreements with Toppan Photomasks Round Rock Inc., Switch, Inc. and KoMico Technology will create 135 new jobs and result in $295M investment.
Downtown Revitalization
- Over $197.34 million invested in public infrastructure and facilities.
- Design completed for renovation of old library, the Griffith Building and addition of a paseo to connect Prete Plaza and the new Round Rock Public Library.
- Mixed-Use Developments, including the Depot townhomes and various other projects, adding residential units to downtown. Four pending projects will provide a total of 150 residential units within a quarter mile of Main Street.
- Design contract approved for new park along Brushy Creek.
Commercial Centers
- Façade Grant Program, funded by Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), launched to revitalize the exteriors of businesses in commercial centers.
Neighborhoods
- 9th Annual Neighborhood Conference was attended by 80 community leaders, focusing on networking and learning about City services.
- New Community Enhancement Team and ongoing programs support neighborhood quality and sense of community.
- Adopt a Street Program was established to encourage community involvement in maintaining clean streets.
Historic Preservation
- New Mortar Repair Resource program launched to provide resources for property owners.
- Interactive Historic Landmark Map provided a digital overview of the city’s historic landmarks.
- Contract awarded for Stagecoach Inn restoration.
Roadway Function
- University Boulevard Improvements were completed from IH-35 to Sunrise Road and A.W. Grimes Blvd. to State Highway 130 to enhance transportation connectivity.
- South Mays Gateway enhancements completed.
- Transportation Master Plan (TMP) was updated.
- Kenney Fort Boulevard Construction made major strides to provide another north/south corridor in the city.
Mobility
- $171,150 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding approved for bus shelter improvements at seven locations across Round Rock.
- Launch of Round Rock Rides, an on-demand ride-sharing service for efficient public transit.
Housing
- Emphasizing the development of townhomes and low-density multifamily units to meet “missing middle” housing initiatives.
- Monitoring the development of new residential units to ensure diversification of housing stock.
Mixed-Use Development
- Several Planned Unit Developments (PUDs) adopted for a mix of high-density multifamily housing and commercial development.
Adapting to Change
- Launched new online permit portal to streamline the development application process.
- Preparation for Google Fiber to provide high-speed internet service starting late 2023.
Sustainability
- Amendments to drought restriction ordinances and water conservation education programs.
- Switching existing streetlights to more energy-efficient LED fixtures.
For more information about Round Rock 2030, visit www.roundrock2030.com.
