KILLEEN, Texas (Feb. 26, 2025) – Downtown Killeen is setting the stage to once again be the fiscal and cultural heart of the city. Killeen has now been accepted into the inaugural Texas First Street cohort, marking an exciting first step toward achieving National Main Street accreditation in 2025 as part of the Texas Main Street Program.

The First Street program helps communities build momentum for downtown revitalization by providing resources and expertise to preserve historic buildings, enhance cultural tourism, and support local businesses. The Texas Main Street Program is part of Main Street America's nationwide network, providing invaluable support to local communities like Killeen in applying the 4-Point Main Street Approach to revitalizing historic downtowns.

“The Main Street Network serves as a reminder that every city faces similar challenges in revitalizing their historic downtowns, but there is a proven approach that has been successful in over 2,000 cities across the country,” said Kate Kizito, Killeen’s Downtown Revitalization Director. “By choosing to be part of this network, we tap into a wealth of experience and strategies that have consistently brought positive change. Investing in our local businesses and historic district is an investment in the future of our community, helping to create a more resilient, sustainable local economy.”

This designation aligns with Killeen’s long-term vision outlined in the Killeen 2040 Comprehensive Plan, which prioritizes downtown revitalization. Before the plan’s implementation, nearly 70% of downtown buildings were vacant, with several in disrepair or slated for demolition. Since then, strategic efforts such as reviving the Vacant Building Registry have pushed downtown occupancy to nearly 80%.

Highlights of Killeen’s downtown transformation include:

• 62+ new businesses have created over 214 jobs in the historic district.
• The city launched a Downtown Business Directory featuring 82 local businesses spanning food, retail, self-care, and entertainment (available at www.KilleenTexas.gov/Shop).
• Signature events, weekly farmers markets, and family-friendly activities have transformed downtown into a vibrant destination.
• 12 public art installations, tactical urbanism, and community-led beautification efforts have enhanced the district’s appeal.
• The Police Department’s North District Community Engagement Unit ensures a safe, welcoming atmosphere with foot and bike patrols.

Key Investments & Recognitions include:

• $1 million in ARPA grants allocated to downtown revitalization (2022).
• Bell County Annex building established in downtown (2022).
• Texas Downtown Achievement Award for Best Economic Game Changer (2023).
• Revival and expansion of the Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ) (2023).
• $432,876 awarded in facade & improvement grants (FY23 & FY24).
• Killeen named a Texas Brew City for efforts to establish a craft beer destination (2024).
• Killeen accepted to Texas First Street program (2025)

The City remains committed to strengthening downtown through business incentives, community engagement, and infrastructure improvements. Killeen’s participation in the First Street Initiative marks another major step in this ongoing transformation.

For more information on the Historic Downtown District and all it has to offer, please visit www.KilleenTexas.gov/Downtown and www.KilleenTexas.gov/Killeen2040.