Arlington Comprehensive Plan Update Adopted 3-17-2015 | Page 90

As the market changes, these goals will Transformational Redevelopment be evaluated and revised accordingly. As with many cities in the North Texas area, the City of Arlington is facing Competitive Positioning build-out. In addition to the challenges North Texas is one of the most dynamic created by a city approaching buildout, a large share of Arlington’s economies in the country. Arlington’s existing hardscape was also built position in the metropolitan area affords it a wealth of opportunities for during periods of rapid growth in the 1970s and 1980s. As a result, business recruitment and expansion. much of the city’s development and For the most part, existing prospects related infrastructure is aging and represent the manufacturing in need of improvement. Successful sector, with some healthcare, retail, redevelopment will require a strong hospitality, and housing projects. public sector role. Identifying Those typically not included are desired outcomes and defining clear professional ser vices and other office guidelines for city involvement will uses. Due to the mix of prospects, the allow key economic centers to become patterns of employment growth in vibrant destinations. As part of the the near future will likely follow the same trends, indicating that Arlington’s economic development program, several target areas were identified future economy will look similar to given their potential to rejuvenate and how it looks now — more growth in low-wage sectors related to hospitality transform the community. and food services and less growth in higher-wage sectors. Capturing a larger share of regional and national high-wage growth will require a deliberate and dynamic approach towards economic development. 84