Creating a vibrant and engaging area that the community can be proud of for years to come
An estimated 20 years of discussion, previous needs assessments, and planning efforts have resulted in a new municipal complex proposal.
The new facility is part of the vision for downtown, which was developed through community engagement and resulted in the Aledo Downtown Master Plan.
Developed with the community, the Downtown Master Plan established the overall vision for downtown. The proposed Downtown Master Plan is composed of four distinct districts:
- Pine Street District
- Historic District
- Civic Center District
- South Commercial District
Central to the Downtown Master Plan is a new Civic Center District, which includes a municipal complex identified as a priority “catalyst” project. The Civic Center District could consist of a new municipal facility, enhanced community center property, as well as trails and sidewalks that connect throughout the community.
The new municipal complex will be key in positioning downtown to attract, retain, and encourage new businesses. The building will house the City of Aledo staff and the benefits include:
Optimization of City Services: Working in sub-standard environments or insufficient space reduces the City’s ability to service its residents efficiently and adequately. A proper facility like the one proposed would allow the City to optimize its services and deliver more effectively.
Recruiting City Staff: Insufficient space in the current City Hall hinders the City from recruiting talented staff. An adequate and enjoyable workspace can be a tremendous recruiting tool for prospective City employees. This building would serve as an excellent recruiting tool to acquire talented staff that will be needed as the City grows.
Flexibility: The current City Hall was built more than 50 years ago, and back then, much of the technology we use today did not exist. The aging building does not provide the flexibility of space or technology necessary for collaboration in today’s environment. The new municipal complex would look to address today’s needs and provide flexibility in the future as staff needs continue to evolve over several decades.
Space for Growth: The City already uses mobile/modular trailers to accommodate current employees. The proposed building would provide room for the current needs and upcoming space needs as Aledo continues to experience rapid population growth.
Community Spaces: The proposed project includes Community Rooms that could be made available.
Safety: The police department component of this municipal complex brings an added layer of security to the families of Aledo.
First Impression: When prospective new businesses or developers come to Aledo, the impression they have is often predicated in the City Hall. These businesses and developers often decide where to do business while inside the City offices. The more than 50 year old City Hall and temporary modular building likely do not represent Aledo well to prospective businesses.
Cost: Costs continue to rise every year. In 2000, the cost of this building would have been approximately $6M. Today the same quality building costs approximately $20M. “Kicking the can down the road” incurs an actual cost loss for the delay.