As the year comes to an end, Arlington, Texas is celebrating another successful year for the city, which has been one of leadership in the exploration of innovative technology connected to transport, economic, touristic and educational opportunities.
Arlington plans for a bright future are still a goal for the city in the coming year, according to Mayor Jeff Williams. He made a powerful and forward-facing statement at the 2018 State of the City address hosted by the Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce, hosted at the Esports Stadium in Arlington that opened on December 12.
Williams stated, “our competitive, can-do spirit makes dreams a reality. It’s a positive spirit that has been demonstrated many times over with big initiatives throughout our history.” He went on to add, “we are home to a host of global, domestic and family-owned businesses. The American pride in our culturally-diverse citizens is undeniable.”
Arlington, which proudly dons the name The American Dream City, has had some significant milestones this year that are especially worth mentioning:
– The opening of Esports Stadium, the largest gaming and esports event facility in North America
– The new Texas Live! $250 million world-class dining, entertainment, and hospitality district
– Winning the 2018 National Gold Medal Award in Parks and Recreation
– Being named the best-run city in Texas
Arlington was also the first city in the United States to offer an autonomous shuttle service through the recent pilot program. Through collaboration with Drive.ai, now these shuttles are available for public use.
The progress of the city in the last years has been noticed around the world, and Richard Florida, the Director of Cities from the University of Toronto, stated that Arlington is “defining what it means to be an innovative city” and that he is amazed with the incredible progress that has been achieved.
The city has big plans for the future, and the major discussed some of those as well. These include Arlington serving as a home to XFL in 2020, whose games will be played at the Globe Life Park. Another exciting plan is the new Fine Arts Center and Athletics Complex expected to be finished in 2020. Many more achievements can be celebrated in coming years with the strong project-management that leads this city towards innovations and fruitful investments, including Rangers Kids Zone, and much more.
