The Haltom United Business Alliance (HUBA), a coalition of small business owners, has proposed a $100,000 study to address the decline of older neighborhoods in Haltom City, Texas. This initiative, led by HUBA co-founder Ron Sturgeon, seeks to engage the nonprofit Strong Towns to assess the challenges facing these areas and develop a strategic plan for revitalization. The focus is on main corridors like Denton Highway and Belknap, where commercial vacancies have become a pressing issue.
Strong Towns, known for its work in helping cities achieve financial resilience and livability, could bring valuable insights into transforming Haltom City's older districts. The study aims to tackle commercial vacancies, infrastructure needs, and economic development, potentially boosting property values and enhancing residents' quality of life. Sturgeon's frustration with the city's previous lack of engagement with business community proposals underscores the urgency of this initiative.
The proposal comes at a critical time for Haltom City, as the disparity between the development of newer areas and the neglect of older neighborhoods becomes increasingly apparent. The involvement of an independent expert like Strong Towns could bridge the gap between local government and the business community, fostering a collaborative approach to urban renewal.
The potential implications of this study extend beyond Haltom City, offering a model for other communities struggling with similar challenges of urban decay and economic stagnation. The decision by Haltom City's leadership to accept HUBA's offer could mark a turning point in the city's approach to development and community engagement. As Sturgeon aptly puts it, "Without a plan, nothing is going to change." The community now awaits the city's response, which could set the stage for a transformative period in Haltom City's history.
