Whitesboro City officials continue to make progress on infrastructure improvements while also welcoming new commercial activity, according to City Administrator Phil Harris.
At recent city council meetings, much of the discussion centered on routine business, including paying bills and completing required reports.
Harris described the recent agendas as largely “housekeeping,” but noted several key developments that will impact residents in the coming months.
Among the most significant projects is ongoing work tied to the city’s new water tower. The council recently accepted a bid for construction of a water line that will connect existing infrastructure to the new tower.
Harris said the contract was awarded to Vessells Construction and he estimates about 90 days to complete the initial pipeline work.
The line will run along the south side of U.S. Highway 56, crossing under the roadway to connect to the system.
Once complete, it will help serve the Whitesboro Independent School District and surrounding areas.
“The intent is to be able to supply water from multiple directions,” Harris said. “If we have a leak on one side, we can shut that down and still provide service from the other.”
City officials expect construction on the line to wrap up by late April, with the water tower potentially coming online by June, depending on weather and final connections.
In addition to improving reliability, the project could expand access to city water for some residents currently relying on private wells.
Harris said that in some cases, property owners along the route have negotiated for water taps as part of easement agreements.
The city is also moving forward with a long-anticipated infrastructure upgrade on D. Street after securing a state grant to replace aging water lines.
The existing system includes older materials with lead solder joints that need to be replaced.
“We’ve been applying for that grant for several years,” Harris said. “We’re grateful to finally receive it.”
The project will include replacing water and sewer lines while reconstructing the roadway, minimizing the need for repeated construction in the area.
In other business, the city recently completed its annual audit within the required timeframe.
This keeps Whitesboro in compliance with state regulations, Harris said.
Officials also continue to explore ways to enhance downtown development.
Through meetings with business and property owners, the city is gathering input on potential improvements, including the possibility of a more formal Main Street district.
Common concerns raised so far include parking limitations, road conditions behind downtown buildings, marketing efforts and the need for public restrooms.
“We want to know what the business owners want before taking any action,” Harris said. “It’s about building a plan that supports long-term growth.”
Separately, Keep Whitesboro Beautiful is still seeking bids for a proposed public art installation near the intersection of Business 377 and U.S. Highway 377. No final decision has been made.
The city will also host a candidate meet-and-greet ahead of the upcoming municipal election. The event is scheduled for April 9 at 6 p.m. at the First State Bank meeting room. The forum will allow residents to speak directly with candidates in an informal setting.
Meanwhile, Whitesboro is preparing to welcome a new business to town. The newly remodeled McDonald’s restaurant is set to hold a soft opening later this week, which Harris said is expected to draw a big crowd.
“People are excited about the jobs and the added sales tax revenue,” he said.
Harris said the overall economic impact is a positive sign for the growing community.
