Chisholm Trail Parkway,

Growth is coming
From: The Glen Rose Reporter, posted: September 16
th
, 2013, Larry P. Smith, Columnists
Construction on the Chisholm Trail Parkway is moving along at a rapid pace. When
the Parkway opens, the drive time between Glen Rose and Fort Worth will be 40
minutes - 20 minutes to Cleburne entry and 20 minutes on the Parkway to Fort Worth.
The growth that is expected for Cleburne is astounding. However, the effect that it
will have on Glen Rose has not been fully investigated or projected. The drive time is
well under the one-hour maximum for commuters who have jobs in the Fort Worth
area. Retirees will have a short drive back to the city. These two factors alone will
bring young families with children and more retirees due to the quality of the schools,
hospital and the other amenities - entertainment, lifestyle and scenic beauty. When
faced with the decision of best place to raise children, where to retire and enjoy later
years or just simply a great place to live, Glen Rose wins on all counts.
The completion of the Chisholm Trail Parkway in 2014 is going to have a profound
impact on the economy in Glen Rose and Somervell County. We can wait for it to
come and accept the growth that comes with it, or we can prepare and direct that
growth in the direction we want it to take. Already, developers are at work out in the
county to take early advantage of this phenomenon. While this will bring new
residents, new taxes and increased recognition, it does not bring new jobs and
business to Glen Rose.
The only way to ensure positive economic impact and quality growth that is desirable
is to be in control through planning, preparation and a community-wide effort to
determine the outcome.
The city of Glen Rose is seeking a new city administrator and a new director for the
Convention and Visitors Bureau. The filling of these two positions with professionals
who possess the necessary qualifications and ability is essential. The city council is to
be congratulated for increasing the time period for applications so that they are able to
employ the quality individual who fits the required profile.
Somervell County Expo Center continues to bring in large events that spark the local
economy and add income to local businesses. The eye-catching improvements in the
main concourse are worth seeing and give the expo center historic character in a
modern facility. They were done with local materials at little or no cost.
The city and county are doing their part to improve the economy of Glen Rose and
Somervell County, and there is more planned. Elected officials have provided
leadership.
Actions by city, county and state officials working together and providing leadership
to improve the community encourages citizens and business owners to do the same.
Local organizations are already at work to make improvements. In June, the
Downtown Association held a standing room only meeting to embark on a downtown
revitalization program that will bring new shops, increased traffic and renewed vigor
to the historic downtown district. Discussions are underway regarding a walking
bridge over the Paluxy River, connecting downtown and Heritage Park. Other
considerations include rejoining the Main Street program, repairs to sidewalks, the
planned speaker system and others to enhance the downtown experience.
Glen Rose/Somervell County Chamber of Commerce is experiencing record
attendance at monthly meetings that also host informative speakers. Ribbon cuttings
for new business openings are increasing, and special events are always well attended.
A call was put out for renewal of economic development, and a steering
committee has been formed to establish an ongoing and permanent program of
economic development for Glen Rose and Somervell County. Growth is coming!
Glen Rose and Somervell County are going to gain new residents, new businesses
and new industry as a result of the Chisholm Trail Parkway. This will bring new jobs,
increased revenues and a stronger economy.
Larry P. Smith is a columnist for the Reporter.