Brownwood moves forward with $18M for downtown master plan phase 1

BROWNWOOD, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) — The City of Brownwood is moving forward with a plan that has been a long time in the making. For more than a year, officials in Brownwood have been working to revitalize the downtown area, presenting a master plan in February 2024. Fast-forward to May 2025, and now the Brownwood city council has approved the 18-million-dollar budget for the project, giving a green light for Phase 1 of the revitalization project.

All of this took place at the May 13th City Council Meeting. Deputy City Manager Marshal McIntosh presented the certificates of obligation to the council, not to exceed $18 million, and is set to publish a notice of intention in the Brownwood Bulletin. The council unanimously voted to approve this debt through a certificate of obligation, which allows them to take on this debt without voter approval. City manager Emily Crawford emphasized that while it will be funded by property taxes, it will not raise the current rate of 69 cents per one-hundred-dollar value.

Mayor Stephen Haynes explained that with warmer weather, he has been noticing more foot traffic in the downtown area and is ready to see that continued growth.

“My family, we were all downtown Saturday morning, and it was busy. Now that people are out and going to the bakery and shops, it’s nice to see,” explained Mayor Haynes. “Those things are not going to continue until we do our part.”

Phase 1 includes street improvements to Baker and Fisk Streets, the development of Fisk Art Park, and the creation of a park at the site of the historic silos. Council member Ed McMillian shared that this will provide an economic boost for businesses and tourism while improving the quality of life.

“Our young people, they’re moving back to live, and this is what we’re making. We’re making something to improve the City of Brownwood,” added McMillian.

Council member Draco Miller explained that this project has been received with overall positivity.

Many citizens, groups, organizations, businesses, downtown and not downtown, had the opportunity to see, comment, and give feedback. It is my understanding that there was a large majority in favor of the Phase 1 project,” said Miller.

You can learn more here: Downtown Plan | Brownwood, TX – Official Website