The existing code to address vacant, substandard structures mirrors the state law. Additional staff has been trained allowing nearly 100 cases to be in the process at any given time. Certain higher visible commercial structures have been targeted to actively pursue for redevelopment and occupancy. This includes the Toys R Us, HEB, Whataburger, Daycare, and Texas Avenue buildings. The goal is to work directly with the property owner to identify potential tenants, uses, and resources for the buildings.
A few of the targeted buildings are in the process of being redeveloped for new commercial uses. The old Toys R Us building is being repurposed for Big Lots, which opened in August 2019. The HEB building on N. Main has an approved permit for a retail center and potentially a new convenience store and gas station. The Whataburger building on Garth, south of Park Street opened as a seafood restaurant in August 2019. Staff has mailed information regarding the existing incentives from the Reinvestment Zone and Downtown Façade Program to property owners in the Downtown Arts District.
Finally, the newly hired Development Manager will continue to work with existing property owners to identify resources to redevelop shuttered buildings in the older areas of town.