Old Town Lewisville has been recognized as one of the six Great Places in Texas for 2023 by the American Planning Association—Texas Chapter. This accolade underlines the significance of comprehensive planning in community development and the creation of vibrant neighborhoods as per article of City of Lewisville.
The transformation of Old Town Lewisville from a historic district to a modern urban neighborhood started in the late '90s, preserving its cultural heritage amidst new developments. A major milestone was the approval of the first Old Town Master Plan in 2003, after City Hall relocated to the area.
The City of Lewisville attributes the success of Old Town Lewisville's redevelopment plan to outstanding community engagement and thoughtful decision-making. Particularly in the planning process, hundreds of community members made significant contributions to the Lewisville 2025 vision plan during 2013–2014, with many maintaining involvement in city committees and programs to this day.
Brought to life with collaborative vigor, Old Town Lewisville now showcases a range of housing, pedestrian-friendly streets, abundant greenspaces, public art, and a variety of dining and entertainment options. Old Town Lewisville has achieved a balance between growth and sustainability, demonstrating a commitment to healthy living and environmental responsibility. More than 30 works of public art have been installed there since 2018, adding to its cultural vibrancy.
The fundamental driver of Old Town Lewisville's progress is the dynamic Lewisville 2025 vision plan. Available on the City of Lewisville website, the plan features nine "Big Moves" guiding the city's growth and development. Old Town Lewisville's achievements are a tribute to this effective collaboration between community members and city planners and their consistent work in achieving the vision plan's objectives.
Over time, both the City of Lewisville and the Lewisville 2025 vision plan have earned many awards, underscoring the success and efficacy of the city's planning initiatives. In October 2023, the city was awarded the Gold Level Achievement Award in Environmental Planning for its Healthy Infrastructure Plan. In 2019, the city received the Gold Level Implementation Planning Achievement Award for the accomplishment of the Lewisville 2025 vision plan, and the following year, the national American Planning Association gave them the Gold Level Achievement Award.
The revival story of Old Town Lewisville stands as a model for other communities, demonstrating the power of community collaboration, urban planning, and responsible resource stewardship. This reemergence not only plays an integral role in local life but also serves to inspire planning and executing neighborhood revitalization strategies, proving that citizen participation can help create extraordinary places to live.
