As a mature suburb with limited undeveloped land, Richardson's development efforts have begun to focus on redevelopment and reinvestment opportunities and individual efforts to revitalize private property.

In January 2009, the City Council adopted a new Comprehensive Plan, which identified “Enhancement/Redevelopment” zones that are struggling with some of the challenges of maturing suburban cities. City officials felt the that true potential of these areas could not be determined without specific, detailed studies. Over the past decade, Richardson has completed revitalization studies for three key reinvestment areas, which include:

• West Spring Valley Corridor
• The Core District (Downtown Richardson and US 75 Corridor)
• The Richardson IQ

Reinvestment Area Map

A fresh vision based on community values and sound economic analysis was established for these three reinvestment areas. With the vision in place, several city-led initiatives and public infrastructure projects have been completed including new land use and development regulations to encourage private-sector investment, major capital projects including rebuilding and enhancing W. Spring Valley Road and Main Street, and reinvestment in municipal facilities such as the new Public Safety Complex in the Core District.

Providing high quality civic spaces that vary in design, scale, and purpose will also play a vital role in the successful transformation of these three reinvestment areas. A range of philanthropic opportunities to contribute to the creation of these important public spaces in available. All contributions, donations or sponsorships, corporate or individual, are appropriately acknowledged. Contributions may be general or specific in how they are utilized to create and enhance civic spaces in the three reinvestment areas. The range of projects and improvements eligible for philanthropic support include: 

Streetscape Enhancements

Contribute to improving the overall appearance of Richardson while enriching the pedestrian experience. Donations will assist with transforming roadway corridors into desirable, walkable public spaces with broad sidewalks and enhancements including:

• Benches
• Bicycle facilities (e.g., racks, lockers, etc.)
• Lighting
• Planters
• Sidewalk pavers
• Trash receptacles
• Shade structures
• Trees and landscaping

Public Performance Plaza

Help the City of Richardson create a special plaza for performing artists and other programs, thus expanding recreational and entertainment options for citizens and visitors, drawing people to downtown and increasing support for local businesses. Opportunities for sponsorships and donations include:

• Audio/visual equipment
• Covered performance area (e.g. stage, pavilion)
• Event programming
• Fountains
• Furniture (e.g. tables, chairs)
• Landscaping
• Lighting
• Public art
• Sidewalks

Open Space and Other Public Improvements

Support the creation of desirable open space and other public amenities that enhance the public realm and foster a more engaging experience for all. Opportunities for sponsorship include:

• Benches
• Bicycle facilities (e.g., racks, lockers, etc.)
• Directional and wayfinding signage
• District entry portal improvements
• Fountains
• Lighting
• Parking
• Planters
• Public art
• Sidewalks
• Trash receptacles
• Trees and landscaping
• Shade structures
• Water fountains

Disclaimer for all pictures: Images shown are for illustrative purposes and do necessarily represent final design and/or product selection.

For more information on opportunities to assist in revitalizing downtown Richardson, please contact:

Michaela Dollar
Phone: 972-744-4207
Email: Michaela.dollar@cor.gov