Demolition, site work, paving and new construction of a mixed-use development in Waco, Texas. Conceptual plans call for site work for a road / highway; for paving for a road / highway; for the construction of a clubhouse / community center; retail development; sidewalk / parking lot; sidewalk / parking lot; municipal facility; parking garage; 150-room, 2,000-seat hospitality development; and 386,000-square-foot, four-story above grade conference / convention center.

Phase 1A is expected to take two years and will prioritize improving the walkability and connectivity of the Barron’s Branch District to the river, riverwalk and local neighborhoods. The project will convert University Parks to a wide festival street that will only allow fire and delivery vehicular access. The district’s goal is conversion to accommodate pedestrians, including plans to improve street connectivity, community spaces, plazas and private development. Phase 1A is expected to take two years and will prioritize improving the walkability and connectivity of the Barron’s Branch District to the river, riverwalk and local neighborhoods. The project will convert University Parks to a wide festival street that will only allow fire and delivery vehicular access. The district’s goal is conversion to accommodate pedestrians, including plans to improve street connectivity, community spaces, plazas and private development. Phase 1B will advance the city’s goals by investing in a City Hall and WISD building over years two through four. The city will build a multi-purpose parking structure, support commercial and retail space development and extend streets for greater accessibility. The parking garage will allow the city to relocate the current parking areas to make room for additional private and public development in future phases. Phase 2 is expected to take place over years four through eight. The city will relocate and replace the current convention center, alongside a hotel and performing arts venue, to enhance the appeal of the riverwalk area and pedestrian bridge. The convention center will be a four-story, 386,000 square foot structure with a grand ballroom and exhibit hall facing the river and providing views of the city’s cultural centers and amenities. The district will host a 150-room, 4-star hotel with two room towers. The hotel will have an elevated deck with views over the river and downtown area, a shaded green space and a drop off area. The city will also integrate a 2,000-seat performing arts venue with the hotel and convention center’s operations. The city expects the venue to be comparable in size, location and function to the Moody Theater venue in Austin. Phase 3 is planned for years eight through 10, starting with the demolition of the current convention center. This portion of the master plan focuses on developing the town center for retail, mixed-use and gather spaces. The town squares green spaces will integrate with the riverwalk and local parks. They will include water features, landscaped pedestrian paths and internal vehicular circulation options. The City of Waco has approved a $1.4 billion, multi-phase downtown redevelopment plan that will roll out over the next 12–20 years, transforming more than 100 acres with upgraded infrastructure, expanded green space, new community areas, and improved amenities. As of May 1, 2026, information regarding design firm, construction manager, and general contractor has not been released. Further details regarding construction and completion timelines have not been identified.