The City of Arlington has been honored with two 2024 Excellence in Economic Development Bronze Awards by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). The awards recognize Arlington’s achievements in the Real Estate Development & Re-use and Public-Private Partnership categories, specifically highlighting the development of the Loews Arlington Hotel and Convention Center.
Kevin Kramer, Chair of IEDC’s Excellence in Economic Development Awards Advisory Committee, praised the recipients, stating, “We are absolutely thrilled to announce this year’s award winners. These exceptional projects showcase remarkable dedication and ingenuity within the field. The City of Arlington’s contributions will leave a lasting impact and demonstrate its commitment to creating positive change for its residents.”
The IEDC’s annual Excellence Awards program celebrates the outstanding efforts of economic development organizations, government entities, and public-private initiatives that have shown consistent, exemplary performance. These entities play crucial roles in revitalizing communities, contributing significantly to the economic vitality and quality of life in their areas.
The awarded projects, such as the Loews Arlington Hotel and Convention Center, are pivotal in shaping and improving the practice of economic development. They serve as benchmarks for innovation and success in the industry, inspiring similar achievements globally.
The City of Arlington’s recognition at this prestigious event underscores its strategic approach to fostering significant economic growth and community development through collaborative efforts. These awards highlight the city’s ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation in economic development.
During the 2023-2024 school year, Arlington’s Information Technology Department partnered with Mansfield ISD’s Ben Barber Innovation Academy to offer a hands-on internship program for high school seniors. This initiative is part of the city’s broader effort to engage local students in professional environments that complement their STEM education, providing invaluable experience and mentorship in information technology.
The internships allowed four high school seniors to delve into the practical aspects of IT careers, aligning their academic pursuits with real-world applications within the municipal government. This interaction not only enhances the students’ learning experience but also benefits the city by integrating fresh perspectives and ideas into its technology strategies.
The City of Arlington leverages these internships to highlight the role of technology in various municipal functions, showcasing the interdisciplinary nature of modern governance. Through these roles, interns gain a firsthand understanding of how technology solutions can streamline city operations, enhance public services, and support community initiatives.
Details of this enriching program are featured in the latest edition of the city’s Leveraging Technology newsletter. This digital-only publication provides deeper insights into the city’s tech initiatives with enriched content such as video segments and interactive links. The current issue also covers the 2024 Pavement Survey, spotlighting significant IT projects and the introduction of multimodal delivery systems like autonomous ground robots and uncrewed aircraft in pilot projects for nonperishable food delivery.
Arlington City Council has recognized “Leveraging Technology” as a key priority, acknowledging its critical role in supporting the city’s broader objectives, which include economic development, community support, enhanced mobility, neighborhood improvement, and unity building.
The city’s commitment to integrating technology in its operations and its efforts to nurture young talent are pivotal in maintaining Arlington’s status as a forward-thinking community. This initiative not only prepares students for future careers but also ensures the city remains at the cutting edge of technological advancements in municipal management.
Arlington Water Utilities is pleased to announce the opening of the 2024 Value of Water Mini Poster Contest, designed to engage Arlington’s young students and encourage them to express the importance of water through art. The contest, open to students from pre-kindergarten through fourth grade, will begin on September 3 and run until October 9, 2024.
This annual event, supported by partnerships with the Arlington Public Library, River Legacy Nature Center, and Tarrant Regional Water District, aims to highlight the critical role that water plays in daily life while fostering creativity among the city’s youth.
Participants are invited to create artworks that depict why water is essential to them, using examples such as swimming in a pool or enjoying a refreshing glass of lemonade. Entries should be made on an 8 ½ by 11-inch piece of plain white paper. Pre-kindergarten students can participate by coloring a designated sheet available on SaveArlingtonWater.com.
To submit their work, contestants must include their first name, grade, school, a parent or guardian’s phone number, and a brief explanation of their drawing and its significance on the back of their entry. Submissions can be emailed to [email protected] or delivered in person to any Arlington Public Library location, the River Legacy Nature Center, or the Arlington Water Utilities South Service Center by the contest deadline.
The contest will culminate with the selection of six winners, one from each grade level, who will be announced on Arlington Water’s Facebook page on October 17, 2024. Winners and their teachers will receive invitations to be recognized at an Arlington City Council meeting scheduled for November 12, 2024. Additionally, their artwork will be displayed at Arlington City Hall or the Arlington Water Utilities South Service Center and featured in the annual Water Quality Report. Each winner’s school will also receive a poster of the winning entries.
Furthermore, the community is invited to attend the Water Awareness Through Education and Recreation (WATER) Festival at the River Legacy Nature Center on September 14, which promises to be an enriching experience promoting water conservation and environmental education.
For a full list of contest rules and more details, interested parties are encouraged to visit www.SaveArlingtonWater.com. This initiative is part of Arlington’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and education, aiming to instill a lifelong appreciation for water resources in the next generation.
The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) has unveiled an ambitious plan to develop a new 51-acre campus in West Fort Worth, marking a significant expansion of its educational footprint in the region. The new campus, located within the Walsh Ranch development, is slated to open as early as fall 2028 and is part of a multi-year strategy aimed at serving over 10,000 students.
UTA West, as the new campus will be known, represents a strategic move by the university to address the growing demand for higher education in the rapidly expanding western region of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. UTA President Jennifer Cowley highlighted the area’s burgeoning population and economic potential, noting that the expansion will enable UTA to further its impact across the region.
“The western part of the metroplex boasts a thriving population, a wealth of student talent, and vast opportunities for economic growth. UTA has long been a key provider of skilled talent to companies throughout Fort Worth, and this new campus will allow us to broaden our influence and continue contributing to the region’s development,” President Cowley stated.
The University of Texas System Board of Regents has already approved the plans and allocated the necessary funds to acquire the property at the intersection of I-30 and I-20. The board’s chairman, Kevin Eltife, emphasized the UT System’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities across the state.
“Whenever the UT System has the chance to enhance educational access, affordability, and opportunities for Texans, we seize it. We’ve made strides in East Texas and South Texas, and now we’re setting our sights on the West. We’re excited to establish a UTA presence in West Fort Worth, currently the fastest-growing city in the nation,” Chairman Eltife remarked.
The establishment of UTA West underscores the university’s dedication to fostering innovation, discovery, and community engagement. As UTA continues to expand its reach, the new campus is poised to play a pivotal role in enriching the educational landscape and driving growth throughout North Texas.
The City of Arlington proudly commemorates its 25th consecutive year as a Tree City USA community, a prestigious recognition that underscores its unwavering commitment to urban forestry and environmental stewardship. This notable milestone, achieved through sustained efforts to preserve and enhance the city’s tree canopy, reflects Arlington’s long-standing dedication to fostering a greener, healthier urban environment.
The Tree City USA program, sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in collaboration with the USDA Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters, provides critical guidance, technical assistance, and national recognition to municipalities that prioritize urban and community forestry. Arlington is among more than 3,500 communities across the United States that participate in this esteemed program, which celebrates and supports the development of robust urban forests in cities and towns where millions of Americans reside.
Arlington first earned its Tree City USA designation in 1999, marking the beginning of a journey that has seen the city implement a range of strategic initiatives aimed at protecting and expanding its urban tree canopy. Over the years, these efforts have included the introduction of comprehensive tree preservation ordinances, the establishment of community outreach and educational programs, and the organization of annual Arbor Day celebrations. These initiatives have not only enhanced the city’s aesthetic appeal but have also contributed to environmental sustainability and improved quality of life for its residents.
A pivotal study conducted in 2020 revealed that Arlington boasts an average of 70.4 trees per acre across its parks and natural areas, with 48 distinct tree species identified. This biodiversity is a testament to the city’s effective management and conservation strategies, which prioritize the planting and preservation of native species known for their adaptability and ecological benefits.
“Trees contribute significantly to Arlington’s identity, from enhancing the beauty of our neighborhoods and parks to providing essential services like shade, which helps our residents and businesses reduce energy costs,” said Wendy Pappas, Urban Forestry Land Manager for Arlington Parks and Recreation. “We take immense pride in our long-standing designation as a Tree City USA community by the Arbor Day Foundation. Our ongoing collaboration with residents, businesses, and developers is crucial as we continue to protect and grow our urban tree canopy.”
The benefits of a thriving urban forest extend far beyond aesthetics. Trees play a vital role in absorbing urban noise pollution, with studies showing that they can reduce the sounds of traffic by as much as 40%. Moreover, neighborhoods with ample tree cover are significantly cooler, with temperatures averaging seven to nine degrees lower than areas without trees. This natural cooling effect is particularly important in mitigating the urban heat island phenomenon, which can exacerbate heat-related health issues during the summer months.
In addition to these environmental benefits, trees also have a profound impact on energy consumption and property values. By shading buildings and acting as a natural barrier against winter winds, trees can reduce energy costs by up to 25%. Furthermore, homes situated in well-treed neighborhoods often enjoy higher property values, reflecting the desirability of living in areas with abundant green space.
Beyond the tangible economic and environmental advantages, Arlington’s urban forest plays a crucial role in promoting mental and physical well-being. Access to green spaces has been linked to improved mental health outcomes, including reduced stress and anxiety levels. The presence of trees and natural areas encourages outdoor activities such as walking and jogging, which are essential for maintaining physical fitness and overall health.
As Arlington celebrates 25 years as a Tree City USA community, the city remains committed to advancing its urban forestry goals. Looking ahead, Arlington plans to expand its tree planting initiatives, enhance its tree care programs, and continue engaging the community in conservation efforts. Through these actions, the city aims to ensure that its urban forest remains a vibrant and sustainable resource for future generations.
The recognition of Arlington as a Tree City USA community for a quarter of a century underscores the importance of urban forestry in creating livable, resilient cities. As urban areas continue to grow and evolve, Arlington’s example serves as a model for how cities can balance development with the preservation of natural resources, ensuring a high quality of life for all residents.
NASA has recently convened in Arlington to discuss the future role of drones in enhancing public safety. The meeting, held on August 15, 2024, brought together experts from the aerospace industry, local government officials, and public safety leaders to explore the potential applications of drone technology in emergency response and community safety.
As drone technology continues to advance, its potential to revolutionize public safety efforts is becoming increasingly clear. During the discussion, NASA officials highlighted the use of drones in various scenarios, such as search and rescue operations, disaster response, and traffic management. The conversation also touched on the challenges of integrating drones into public airspace, including regulatory hurdles, privacy concerns, and the need for robust communication systems.
Arlington, a city known for its innovative spirit and commitment to public safety, has been identified as a potential testing ground for new drone technologies. The city’s strategic location and well-established infrastructure make it an ideal candidate for pilot programs that could set the standard for the use of drones in public safety across the country.
In addition to NASA’s focus on drones, the meeting underscored Arlington’s growing reputation as a hub for technological innovation. With local inventors, like the recent patent holder of a groundbreaking medical device, and students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) covering major events like the MLB All-Star Weekend, Arlington continues to position itself at the forefront of progress and opportunity.
As NASA and Arlington officials continue their collaboration, the city is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of public safety through the integration of cutting-edge drone technology. This ongoing partnership not only reflects Arlington’s commitment to innovation but also its dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as Arlington and NASA work together to bring the future of public safety to new heights.
Arlington, Texas – City leaders and community stakeholders convened to celebrate the groundbreaking of the Caravan Court Hotel, a transformative redevelopment project that signals a new era for the historic Caravan Motor Hotel site at the corner of Collins and Division streets. The initiative, in partnership with Valencia Hotel Group and Division Hotel Management, LLC, marks a pivotal step in revitalizing the Division Street Corridor, an effort that has been decades in the making.
The Caravan Court Hotel, set to replace the now-defunct Caravan Motor Hotel, will feature 145 upper upscale boutique rooms designed with a mid-century aesthetic, reminiscent of the area’s rich automotive history along the former Bankhead Highway. The $45 million project, receiving a $3 million city investment for demolition costs and up to $1 million yearly in performance incentives, aims to preserve key elements of Arlington’s past while fostering economic growth. This includes maintaining the iconic Caravan Hotel sign and integrating corridor beautification measures that respect the street’s historical significance as an auto sales hub.
In addition to the hotel, the redevelopment efforts extend to improving the overall appearance of Division Street. Spearheaded by local business owner and philanthropist Sam Mahrouq, these efforts focus on enhancing public spaces and encouraging investment in the area. The city’s agreement with Mahrouq includes developing a used auto sales business park or auto-mall, further cementing Division Street’s automotive legacy.
The project has garnered robust support from city officials, including Mayor Jim Ross, who emphasized its potential to unify the downtown and entertainment districts, creating a cohesive urban landscape. “It checks all the boxes,” Mayor Ross stated, praising Mahrouq’s commitment to the city and the project’s alignment with Arlington’s cultural and economic objectives.
Furthermore, the city council has approved a separate $7 million grant for Ikon Technologies, owned by Mahrouq, to expand its headquarters in north Arlington. This agreement not only promises to retain and grow local employment but also involves Ikon in broader redevelopment efforts along Division Street. The company, specializing in IT support for auto dealers, is expected to significantly increase its revenue and workforce by 2026, enhancing its contribution to the local economy.
Both projects are part of Arlington’s strategic plan to revitalize the Division Street Corridor, a vision that has been evolving since the 1990s. With the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, the city is poised to showcase these developments on an international stage, promising a vibrant future for Arlington.
These initiatives reflect Arlington’s commitment to its history and future, blending preservation with progress. As these projects unfold, they are set to redefine the cityscape and catalyze further investment, turning what was once described as an “ugly” area into a point of pride for the community.
The Arlington Museum of Art (AMA) proudly announces the debut of “She Said, She Said,” a groundbreaking exhibition featuring an extensive collection of contemporary artwork by women artists, curated from the esteemed Rubell Museum’s vast holdings. This highly anticipated exhibition, curated by Alexandra Perez of the Rubell Museum, underscores the pivotal role that women artists continue to play in shaping the contemporary art landscape.
“She Said, She Said” presents over 50 works across a diverse range of mediums, including painting, photography, sculpture, video, and installation. The exhibition brings together more than 30 artists from various generations, cultures, and artistic disciplines, offering a rich tapestry of perspectives and experiences. Organized thematically, with several galleries dedicated to solo presentations, the exhibition delves into complex topics such as representations of the body, appropriation and subversion, self-portraiture, and gestural abstraction.
Among the featured artists are notable contemporary practitioners such as Solange Pessoa, Beverly Semmes, Cajsa von Zeipel, and Allison Zuckerman. Their work, along with that of their peers, highlights the significant contributions that women artists have made—and continue to make—to the canon of contemporary art. The exhibition is not only a celebration of these artists’ achievements but also a reflection on the evolving discourse surrounding gender, identity, and artistic expression in the modern era.
“She Said, She Said” marks a significant moment in the AMA’s history, as it coincides with the museum’s opening year at its new location in the heart of the Arlington Entertainment District. The exhibition will be on display in the AMA’s newly established Traditional Gallery from August 17, 2024, through November 3, 2024, providing art enthusiasts and the broader public with a unique opportunity to engage with this compelling body of work.
Mera Rubell, co-founder of the Rubell Museum, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “Through our continued partnership with the Arlington Museum of Art, we are able to bring our collection to new and broader audiences, reflecting our mission to showcase and encourage public dialogue about work by a wide range of contemporary artists. ‘She Said, She Said’ underscores our commitment to supporting and championing artists, particularly women whose diverse perspectives and innovative practices are essential to the contemporary art world.”
Chris Hightower, President and CEO of the Arlington Museum of Art, emphasized the significance of the exhibition within the context of Arlington’s diverse and dynamic community. “The Arlington Museum of Art is unique in many ways. While we possess the capacity and expertise of a major art institution, our approach is as much influenced by the creativity and vision of Broadway producers as it is by curators and art historians. Arlington is one of the five most diverse cities in the country, and this diversity informs our dedication to presenting a wide array of traditional, immersive, and emerging art forms. Our collaboration with partners like the Rubell Museum enables us to bring world-class exhibitions to our community, ensuring that there is always something new and exciting to experience at the AMA.”
“She Said, She Said” represents the third collaborative effort between the Arlington Museum of Art and the Rubell Museum, building on the success of previous exhibitions that have brought international acclaim to Arlington. In 2019, the AMA hosted “Keith Haring: Against All Odds,” a retrospective that offered a comprehensive look at the iconic artist’s work, timed to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots. In 2021, the AMA presented “30 Americans,” a powerful exhibition showcasing works by 30 African American artists, which explored themes of racial, sexual, and historical identity, as well as the enduring impact of artistic legacy and community.
Kendall Quirk, AMA Director of Exhibitions, highlighted the ongoing importance of the museum’s partnership with the Rubell Museum. “Our long-standing collaboration with the Rubell Museum has been an invaluable opportunity to bring the very best of contemporary art to Texas. More importantly, we engage our community around these exhibitions through innovative programming and partnerships that inspire dialogue, critical thinking, and a deeper appreciation of the arts.”
As the Arlington Museum of Art continues to evolve and expand its reach, “She Said, She Said” stands as a testament to the institution’s commitment to showcasing diverse artistic voices and fostering meaningful cultural exchange. This landmark exhibition is poised to leave a lasting impact on Arlington’s cultural landscape, offering visitors a chance to experience the transformative power of contemporary art through the lens of some of today’s most compelling women artists.
The global fast-food giant Jollibee has officially opened its doors in Arlington, Texas, marking the brand’s seventh location in the Lone Star State and its 74th in the United States. The grand opening, which took place on Friday, August 16, 2024, at 1700 West Pleasant Ridge Road, has been met with great excitement, further solidifying Jollibee’s growing presence in North America.
The Arlington location, situated in the heart of South Arlington’s bustling retail corridor just off Interstate 20, is strategically positioned to serve the vibrant communities of both Dallas and Fort Worth. Known for its famous Chickenjoy fried chicken, crispy chicken sandwiches, and the iconic Peach Mango Pie, Jollibee continues to attract a diverse and devoted fanbase.
The opening festivities drew large crowds, with customers eager to experience Jollibee’s beloved menu offerings. The new store, which operates daily from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., provides multiple service options, including dine-in, take-out, and drive-thru, with online ordering to be available in the coming weeks.
To celebrate the opening, Jollibee launched a three-day promotional event, offering exclusive giveaways to the first 50 in-store and 50 drive-thru customers who spent $25 or more. Prizes included a year’s supply of Jollibee Chicken Sandwiches, limited-edition Jollibee t-shirts, and other branded merchandise, adding to the excitement of the grand opening.
“We are thrilled to bring our famous Chickenjoy and other Jollibee favorites to Arlington,” said Maribeth Dela Cruz, Business Group Head of Honeybee Foods Corporation, which operates Jollibee in North America. “Arlington is not only conveniently located between Dallas and Fort Worth, but it is also consistently ranked as one of the most desirable cities in America to live, work, and play. This makes it the perfect place to continue spreading our joy in Texas.”
The new Arlington store joins Jollibee’s other North Texas locations in Dallas, which opened in November 2023, and Plano, which debuted in 2020. As Jollibee continues its aggressive expansion across the continent, the brand remains committed to delivering great-tasting food and joyful experiences to its customers. With upcoming openings in new markets like Portland, OR, and further expansions in New York City and Northern California, Jollibee is poised to continue its upward trajectory.
Jollibee, a flagship brand of the Jollibee Group, is one of the fastest-growing restaurant companies in the world. The company operates over 6,900 stores across 32 countries under 18 brands, including Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, and Red Ribbon. The group’s commitment to sustainability and excellence has earned it numerous accolades, including being named the Philippines’ Most Admired Company by the Asian Wall Street Journal for ten years and one of the World’s Best Employers by Forbes.
For more updates on Jollibee’s expansion and offerings, customers are encouraged to follow the brand on social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Arlington has been honored as one of the top 25 best places to live in the Southwest, according to a recent ranking published by Livability.com. This prestigious recognition highlights Arlington’s strategic location within the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metroplex, its robust economy, affordable housing market, and diverse entertainment options, making it an attractive destination for residents seeking a high quality of life.
The ranking, based on a comprehensive analysis of economic indicators and quality of life factors, draws from Livability.com’s broader Top 100 Best Places to Live list. The evaluation process involved extensive research conducted by Livability in partnership with Applied Geographic Solutions, examining data from over 2,000 U.S. cities with populations ranging between 75,000 and 500,000.
The assessment focused on eight key categories: economy, housing and cost of living, amenities, transportation, environment, safety, education, and health. Arlington’s strong performance across these categories underscores the city’s appeal as a vibrant and well-rounded community that offers both residents and newcomers a wide array of opportunities and benefits.
Arlington’s inclusion in this list reflects its ongoing commitment to fostering a dynamic, thriving environment for all who call it home. As the city continues to grow and evolve, its recognition as one of the best places to live in the Southwest serves as a testament to its enduring appeal and bright future.
