The City of Brownwood announces that its Downtown Master Plan has been awarded the Vernon Deines Award for Comprehensive Plan – Small Jurisdiction by the American Planning Association’s Small Town and Rural (STaR) Division. This national recognition honors excellence in community planning and implementation in smaller communities across the United States.

Developed in partnership with Freese and Nichols, the Downtown Master Plan outlines a clear vision for the revitalization of Brownwood’s 102-block downtown district, focusing on infrastructure reinvestment, public space enhancements, strategic redevelopment opportunities, and improved pedestrian connectivity.

Since its adoption in 2024, the plan has already led to initiating public and private investment through a series of proposed catalyst projects, including streetscape improvements, infrastructure upgrades, and the reuse of key civic buildings.

“The City of Brownwood is honored to receive this recognition from the American Planning Association,” said Mayor Stephen Haynes. “This award is a reflection of the collaborative effort between our City Council, staff, community partners, and residents, who all shared in shaping a vision for continued revitalization efforts.”

The planning process incorporated robust public engagement and resulted in a practical, implementable roadmap that has guided City Council actions, zoning updates, and capital improvement investments. The plan also aligns with economic development priorities, including downtown business attraction, tourism promotion, and the integration of new public amenities.

Local employers and residents have long called for improvements that blend tourism, economic development, and livability. The plan is a step towards delivering on those goals. Merchants are working together more closely, and early successes suggest long-term momentum. Recent City Council funding workshops have supported the plan’s priorities, signaling the City’s strongest financial commitment to downtown in its history.

Freese and Nichols, who served as the City’s planning partner, praised the City’s commitment to execution. “Brownwood’s Downtown Master Plan is a great example of how a clear vision, grounded in public input and supported by implementation strategies, can produce measurable and meaningful results,” said Caitlin Admire, Urban Planner with Freese and Nichols.

The Downtown Master Plan was previously recognized in November 2024 with the Gold Award in Economic Development Planning by the Texas Chapter of the American Planning Association. This national recognition further underscores the City’s proactive and forward-thinking approach to community development and reinvestment.

For more information about the Downtown Master Plan and implementation progress, visit btxgov.info/downtownplan.