One thing Temple residents, workers and visitors have likely noticed in 2019 is the redevelopment effort being focused in the city’s core. The newest approved rezoning project in downtown Temple is Fire Base Brewing Company. The microbrewery will call South 1st Street home, and offer a taproom, outdoor seating and growlers for sale.
Business owners within downtown Temple’s Strategic Investment Zone (SIZ) have the opportunity to apply for an incentive grant program to develop new investments. Property owners who meet certain eligibility criteria, such as Jacob Bates, owner of Bird Creek Burger Co on Main Street, may facilitate new public and private sector investments. In the case of Bates, this led to the development of Treno Pizzeria, Temple’s newest pizzeria coming in 2020.
As Temple Economic Development Corporation (Temple EDC) and the City of Temple work in tandem to grow and expand businesses in downtown, these projects are designed to increase traffic to retailers and restaurants. Here are the 2019 highlights of Temple’s downtown revitalization, with more to come in 2020:
• The newly developed Santa Fe Plaza is near and dear to our hearts. Unveiled on October 8, the plaza houses a 34,000-square-foot office development that serves as a one-stop shop for all things business development in Temple. Temple EDC, the Temple Chamber of Commerce and Workforce Solutions of Central Texas are all strategically located in the business center, located across Santa Fe Plaza from the new Temple ISD administrative building. Anchored by the historic Santa Fe Depot, the Plaza gives a nod to Temple’s past while paving the way for the future of our dynamic, growing city.
• The SPJST Building, also known as the Professional Building, has been slated for mixed-use development of residential and retail spaces. In addition to two retail stores and apartments, the building will feature rooftop amenities and bring the development of a parking garage, with accessible parking for residents and visitors alike.
• 110 and 112 South First will soon be home to Treno Pizzeria and Taproom, as well as Temple’s first downtown coffee house, First Street Roasters. You have likely noticed the Treno sign on the side of the building that signals the near completion of this project. With easy access to the Santa Fe Plaza and market trail, this location offers a great dining and recreation combination.
• City Eats, located at 108 North Main Street, is currently accepting vendors. The food hall will house an assortment of eateries on the ground floor, with four apartment units upstairs. This investment is just one example of multi-use spaces that will drive traffic to Downtown Temple.
• The City Center project encompasses the Hawn Hotel, Arcadia Theater and the Sears Building. A $6 million redevelopment will transform 85,000 historic square feet into residential and retail space. Additionally, a pocket park will entice residents, shoppers and visitors alike to explore this emerging section of Downtown Temple.
We are proud to share the investments being made in our city’s downtown. As the city continues to grow and attract businesses, we are committed to ensuring the city boasts cultural, residential, retail and dining attractions that will entice generations to come. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram for the latest news and updates. Here’s to a prosperous new year in Temple, Texas!