Waco Approves $1M for Jackson Avenue Upgrades

The city will fund new sidewalks and lighting along the downtown corridor through tax increment financing funds.

Updated on Nov. 3, 2026 in Philanthropy

Waco Approves $1M for Jackson Avenue Upgrades

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Do you think your Waco neighborhood is getting better for walking?

Waco approved nearly $1 million for new sidewalks and improved lighting along Jackson Avenue in downtown Waco. The project is funded through TIF funds drawn from increased property tax revenue contributed by the city, county, and McLennan Community College.

Why it matters

Residents have reported rough sidewalks and inadequate lighting near the railroad tracks, and local businesses have requested improvements that would make it easier to walk around downtown. The city is also considering ways to help small businesses stay downtown as the area grows.

The city approved nearly $1 million in TIF-funded improvements, with TIF revenue drawn from increased property tax collections by the city, county, and McLennan Community College. No construction start date has been scheduled, as the project still must go through design and bidding.

The players

McLennan Community College

A public community college in Waco, Texas, whose property tax revenue contributes to the TIF funds financing the project.

The details

The approved funding will pay for new sidewalks and improved lighting along Jackson Avenue. Businesses along the corridor have supported the planned improvements, which come as hotels, restaurants, and attractions continue drawing visitors into downtown Waco.

No construction start date has been set; design and bidding must be completed first.

Market Landscape

The project is financed through a tax increment financing district, a common Texas mechanism that directs rising property tax revenue within a designated zone back into local improvements. Its use here reflects an effort to keep downtown Waco competitive as visitor traffic grows.

Downtown Waco pedestrians may eventually see improved sidewalks and lighting along Jackson Avenue, though no construction timeline has been set. Residents and visitors walking the corridor will likely benefit once the design and bidding process concludes.

The takeaway

Public investment in walkability can support local businesses by making downtown easier to explore on foot. Watch for construction scheduling updates as design and bidding move forward.