2023 Waco Community & Referral Guide

CHAMBER

IT’S GOOD TO BE HOME IN GREATER WACO

Welcome to beautiful Waco, Texas!

Waco is experiencing exciting growth and change. Our community has long been known for its excellent physical location along the Interstate 35 corridor, and dynamic economy –a diverse economy that features global, stateof-the-art distribution and logistics facilities. In fact, the diversity and balance of our economy are some of our many strengths, with no business sector composing more than 20% of the overall economy. If you are looking for a great place to live and work or launch a new business, Waco is the place for you.

Waco is perfectly located within a 90-minute drive to both Dallas-Fort Worth and Austin, making it easy for Wacoans to take weekend trips to nearby larger cities. When tired of dealing with the hustle and bustle of big-city living, locals enjoy coming home to a slower pace. Waco’s beautiful riverfront views, thriving downtown and endless shopping and dining options make it more difficult for locals to take those quick trips out of town.

Waco is a thriving college community, home to more than 40,000 students across five colleges on three campuses, which allows Greater Waco to enjoy a strong educational base and a diverse industrial landscape. This is a winning combination for our community as we prepare our workforce to meet the needs of business and industry now and into the future.

Matthew T. Meadors President / CEO

Greater Waco is home to over 250,000 people that make up a thriving urban downtown, growing student and young professional population, ranching community and suburban paradise. In recent years, Waco has emerged as a tourism mecca. Driven by the tremendous popularity of Magnolia and punctuated with our community’s many world-class assets, Waco has seen its number of visitors grow exponentially. Pre-pandemic, we were welcoming more than 3 million visitors per year and we fully anticipate these numbers and more in the future.

A tremendous setting for outdoor recreation events, including the Chamber’s own TriWaco Triathlon, 400-acre Cameron Park is an oasis with breathtaking cliffs and hike and bike trails. Located near the downtown area, Cameron Park serves as a great gathering place for everyone, from fishermen to disc golfers and hikers.

Many local attractions bring visitors to Greater Waco for both weekend getaways and longer vacations. Families can unearth history at the Waco Mammoth National Monument, discover wild adventures at the Cameron Park Zoo, enjoy sweet treats at the one-of-a-kind Dr Pepper Museum and Free Enterprise Institute, visit the Texas Ranger Museum and Hall of Fame, explore the Mayborn Museum or experience the Texas Sports Hall of Fame.

As we embrace the future, the region’s population is expected to grow substantially in the coming years and we are well-positioned to capitalize on the anticipated influx of talent and innovators. Community partnerships with regional stakeholders are preparing Greater Waco for the economic opportunities that abound in the state of Texas.

The Greater Waco Chamber is a catalyst for attracting and retaining jobs as our members, leaders, strategic partners and professional team work collaboratively to advance our economic and community development mission. Whether you plan to move to Greater Waco or simply explore our city, please refer to the membership directory in this publication for information about the businesses invested in the community. Enjoy your time in Waco!

appreciation, Matthew T. Meadors President & CEO

With

is an organiz ation established by the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce dedicated to building a communit y for Waco’s emerging generation.

InWaco was created to highlight the things that make our community special with the ultimate goal of recruiting and retaining our most valuable resource: our people. InWaco comprises everything Greater Waco has to offer, including jobs. With an integrated job board and place for job seekers to post their resumes, the inWaco website offers a place for employers and potential employees to connect. Talent and workforce remains vital to the work of your Greater Waco Chamber and we are committed to being part of the solution.

WACO YO UNG PR O FE S S IO N AL S

ABOUT THE CHAMBER

CHAMBER HISTORY

The Greater Waco Chamber is a volunteer-driven, business-leadership organization that has been a force for good in Waco for more than a century.

Today, the Chamber is advancing an economic and community development agenda that promises to lead the region into a new era of prosperity with a knowledge-based economy and a reputation for green, livable city practices.

As in prior years, the 21st-century Chamber relies on its members who provide leadership and resources, building on the organization’s record of success, including developing the area’s highway network and Interstate 35, Lakes Whitney and Waco, transforming James Connally Air Force Base into Texas State Technical College Waco, establishing McLennan Community College, and joining forces with the City to retain the Doris Miller Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

Waco has grown significantly, and so has the Chamber. Founded in 1899 as the Waco Business Men’s Club, leaders realized early on that by working together, local businesses can have a greater impact on the quality of life and economic vitality of the area.

By the early 1960s, the Chamber was located downtown at Fourth Street and Franklin Avenue. The Chamber continued to play a pivotal role in Waco and moved into a space provided by the City of Waco, where it was housed for more than 40 years.

Shortly after the turn of the new century, Chamber leaders began to dream of a new facility that could serve as a showcase marketing center for Greater Waco.

The adoption of a breakthrough initiative in 2005 defined the dream and vision for spurring development at Waco’s Town Square.

The City made a site available at 101 S. Third Street, adjacent to Heritage Square, for a new Chamber headquarters. A capital campaign was set in motion to raise funds for construction. More than $7.4 million was raised through the investments of the businesses, foundations and

individuals.

The Salome Commerce Center opened June 6, 2008 and became the first green Chamber building in America. 

to YOUR Chamber

Investing

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

The Economic Development team is the primary point of contact for clients and consultants evaluating the Greater Waco area for new and expanding investments. Support of new business attraction and existing industry expansion has led to over $2.7 billion in new industrial investments since 2006.

WORKFORCE / TALENT

Talent is one of the top priorities for our community. With this in mind, the Greater Waco Chamber is dedicated to helping attract and retain talent in the Greater Waco area. From high school students to longtime professionals, the Chamber is committed to growing human capital.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

The Signature Events team organizes annual events that bring thousands of people together. These programs provide economic boosts within the community, and they present opportunities for the community to network, have access to professional development and connect with other member businesses throughout the year.

PUBLIC POLICY

We are committed to advocating for the Greater Waco business community at the local, state and federal levels of government and promoting member engagement in the legislative process. Each year, we host events to bring elected officials to our community to hear from you, provide our members with policy updates and advocate for a tax and regulatory environment where your business can thrive.

in the Greater Waco Chamber is investing in our community.

WHY JOIN THE CHAMBER?

Joining the Chamber is a worthwhile investment in the community and a vote of confidence in the economic future of Greater Waco.

The return on that investment is receiving referrals from the Chamber and other members, participating in networking events, member-only sponsorship opportunities, and building powerful, unified efforts to accomplish community initiatives.

Our members realize the importance of supporting the Chamber’s economic development efforts. Through their investments, members add to a synergy of economic opportunity by which everyone benefits. That synergy translates into a larger, stronger customer base from which to cultivate increasing financial benefits.

Membership generates exposure. We receive thousands of phone calls and guests in our office each year. These visits and phone calls are from both local residents and out-of-town visitors inquiring about our businesses and community. What they find is a strong network of nearly 1,300 members who can meet their needs.

Members are listed alphabetically and categorically both in our online directory and in this annual Waco Community and Referral Guide.

New members are celebrated with a ribbon cutting ceremony, where our Chamber Ambassadors personally welcome the business to the Chamber. A photo of the event is published in our Greater Waco Business magazine.

Countless opportunities exist for members to expose their businesses. This includes marketing in our Waco Chamber Weekly email and by supporting the Chamber’s many business, educational and social events throughout the year. Members also can participate in helping grow additional tourism through many Chamber events.

Funds from Chamber memberships and event sponsorships support the Greater Waco Chamber’s economic development efforts.

Chamber membership is about service, with many committees driving the Chamber’s initiatives and goals. These are just a few of the ways Chamber members can have an impact in making Greater Waco a better place to live, work and play. 

CHAIR

PHILIP PATTERSON, FACHE President Ascension Providence

Mr. Patterson is an accomplished executive with more than 30 years of experience in healthcare, joining Ascension Providence in February 2018. Philip spends time in the community by serving on the Waco Chamber Executive Committee, Waco Chamber of Commerce Board, Prosper Waco Board of Directors, Health Board and Behavioral Health Committee. He also serves on the Waco Family Practice Foundation Board, Waco Industrial Foundation Executive Committee, Baylor University Robbins Healthcare Advisory Council and Waco Business League.

VICE CHAIR

TODD MOORE Chairman / CEO

Alliance Bank Central Texas

Mr. Moore is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Alliance Bank Central Texas, and has dedicated his banking career to helping Central Texas families and businesses meet their financial goals. He is committed to impacting the Greater Waco community in various ways, currently serving on the Waco Industrial Foundation board and as a District 8 panel member for the State Bar of Texas Chief Disciplinary Counsel. For over three decades, he has also served multiple rotations as a member of Waco Chamber’s board of directors.

COMMITTEE

CHAIR-ELECT

KARY LALANI President

Lalani Lodging Inc.

Mr. Lalani is the President and Chief Operating Officer for Lalani Lodging Inc. and other affiliated entities where he is involved in the investment, development and management activities of the company’s hotel and real estate assets. Kary currently serves on the Owners Advisory Council for the Hilton Garden Inn brand, the Greater Waco Sports Commission and is a member of the Waco Business League. Past involvement includes a tenure as the Chairman of the Baylor Waco Foundation.

IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR

GEORGE CHASE President

Insurors of Texas

Mr. Chase is the President of Insurors of Texas, where he has worked for 25 years. He has volunteered for a number of non-profit organizations in the community, including serving as the President of the YMCA of Central Texas, the Waco Rotary Club, and the Heart of Texas Red Cross.

VICE CHAIR

CAROLYN HAFERKAMP President , Chief Lending Officer

Central National Bank

Ms. Haferkamp has been with Central National Bank for 23 years, currently serving as its President – Chief Lending Officer. In addition to the Greater Waco Chamber, she has been involved in numerous civic and non-profit organizations, with current service to Junior League of Waco, Inc., Waco Civic Theater, Festival on the Brazos, and National Charity League.

PRESIDENT & CEO

MATT MEADORS

Greater

Waco Chamber

Mr. Meadors is President and CEO of the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce. He is responsible for the successful execution of the organization’s strategic plan. In his capacity as the organization’s President and CEO, Meadors also serves as the Executive Vice President of the Waco Industrial Foundation, and President and CEO of the Waco Chamber of Commerce Community Development Foundation.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

BOARD OF ADVISORS

GOLD LEVEL

Bank of America

TFNB Your Bank for Life

SILVER LEVEL

Central National Bank

Home State Insurance Group Waco Tribune-Herald

Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.

BRONZE LEVEL

Alliance Bank Central Texas

American Bank

Amazon

Ascension Providence

ATMOS Energy Bancorp South

Baylor Scott & White

Medical Center - Hillcrest Baylor University

Bird-Kultgen, Inc.

Bowen Electric Co. Cargill Protein

Community Bank & Trust Educators Credit Union Encompass Health Waco Extraco Banks

First National Bank of Central Texas FourFoot, LLC

GENCO Federal Credit Union

Glazer’s Beer and Beverage

Gregg Glime - Commercial Real Estate

H & B Contractors and Kasparian Underground, LLC

H & B Packing Co.

Hampton Inn & Suites Waco South

Hello Bello

Independent Financial

John Houston Custom Homes

L3Harris

Lochridge-Priest, Inc.

Magnolia

Mars Wrigley Confectionery

Martin Marietta Materials

Naman, Howell, Smith & Lee, PLLC

Nucor Steel Jewitt

Oncor Electric Delivery

Pannell Kerr Forster of Texas P.C. (PKF Texas)

Patterson + Sheridan LLP

Pilgrim’s

PNC

Rick Sheldon Real Estate

Sanderson Farms, Inc.

Southern Careers Institute

SpaceX Sunquest Hospitality, LLC

The Behringer Group, LLC

The Delaney at Lake Waco

Trane Technologies

TXU Energy/Luminant Venakor, LLC

Waco Independent School District Waco Shoe Company

PRIVATE INVESTMENT

The Greater Waco Chamber Board of Advisors provide a measure of support beyond regular membership dues. This private investment is important to carrying out the Chamber’s mission—to retain and attract jobs for Greater Waco.

ABOUT THE CHAMBER

JACOB HOGAN Director of Public Policy & Chamber Foundation

NANCY GUPTON Resource Development Director

MATT MEADORS President/CEO

KRIS COLLINS Senior Vice President Economic Development

LEXY REIL Director of Economic Development

SARAH MCDONALD Manager of Signature Events

BONNIE YEAGER Economic Development Coordinator

MAGEN SEPEDA Resource Development Coordinator

LUPE TEICHELMAN Resource Development Manager

DEBBIE MCCUTCHEN Office Coordinator

KEITH KUSLER Art Director

RACHEL MARTINEZ Director of Leadership Development

JASON POWERS Vice President Finance & Operations

MICHELLE WILLIAMS Finance & Operations Assistant

GABRIELLA COLURCIELLO Associate Director of Marketing and Communications

SETH MORRIS Vice President Economic Development

LEIGH DAVIS Director of Marketing & Communications

ALIVIA GOMEZ Director of Signature Events

CHAMBER WEBSITES AND PUBLICATIONS

GREATER WACO BUSINESS

Published near the end of each quarter, this magazine showcases various sectors of our business community and includes content submitted from community partners. Each issue also includes member spotlights for new members, a listing of new members and a Member News section that is available for you to share your good news. Greater Waco Business is mailed to all members, distributed at strategic Greater Waco locations and published online.

WACO COMMUNITY & REFERRAL GUIDE

Published at the end of each year, this publication includes a guide to living, working and playing in Greater Waco and features a complete list of members at the time of printing. Upon completion, the Guide is mailed to members and is available all year long at strategic locations throughout Waco, online and shared domestically and internationally with economic development prospects.

WACO CHAMBER WEEKLY

This weekly e-newsletter is published every Monday and is sent to nearly 3,500 individuals in our database. It includes important announcements from your Chamber as well as information about upcoming events.

WACO CHAMBER MEMBERS CALENDAR

Members can add their upcoming events to the calendar hosted on our website by accessing the Info Hub.

WACOCHAMBER.COM

Our main Chamber website includes everything there is to know about the Chamber. Whether you are interested in attending an upcoming event or looking to get more involved in a Chamber program, this is a great place to start.

WACOCHAMBER.COM/DIRECTORY

This is the direct link to our online membership directory. This directory is searchable and can be filtered by category.

INWACO.COM

This website showcases everything Greater Waco has to offer and connects job seekers and employers. We encourage businesses to post their job openings here and those looking for work to upload a resume and peruse the available jobs.

WACOPROSPECTOR.COM

This website serves as a real estate database for properties in Greater Waco. It provides demographic data to businesses interested in moving to or expanding in Waco.

WACO CHAMBER MEMBERS ONLY FACEBOOK GROUP

This exclusive group is available to all Chamber members. We encourage members to join and interact with each other, by posting information about your business, upcoming events and offers and engaging with your Chamber community.

WELCOME TO WACO

Greater Waco is home to companies of all sizes, including the wildly popular Magnolia. Rich in history, the city boasts a vibrant business community, strong educational climate and thriving downtown area.

Waco is experiencing an era of rapid economic growth. With the opportunities for growth, an exceptional quality of life and the natural beauty of our parks and riverfront, it’s easy to see why so many choose to call Waco “home.”

WORK

Waco is a great place to work. The city and surrounding area has strong industries in healthcare, logistics, aerospace, advanced manufacturing, professional services and hospitality.

With a low unemployment rate and numerous growing and expanding businesses, the city offers great opportunities for people in any stage of their career. Greater Waco allows people interested in expanding their skills easy access to traditional college campuses and various specialized training programs.

LIVE

With its short commute times, abundance of city parks and amenities and strong housing market, Waco is a great place to call home. The population in the Waco metro is over a quarter-million people and growing. Growth has brought new shopping and restaurant options to the city and more are planned for the coming year.

The promise of new development along the river has locals excited about the city’s future. With the recent additions of Baylor University’s McLane Stadium, expansion of Magnolia Market at the Silos and the Balcones Distillery bringing national exposure to Waco, city leaders and influencers are working to develop a riverfront by the Brazos bringing retail, restaurant and entertainment venues together along the Brazos River.

This activity is creating a more inviting, competitive environment which is attracting a wider array of development, including high-end shopping and dining, the arts, entertainment, hotels, offices, residences, and green spaces.

LEARN

Greater Waco is home to highquality school districts with more

than 47,000 students, each with programs designed to ensure high school graduates are ready for life after graduation. In addition, the community includes more than 40,000 college students across five local college campuses. These students provide employers an abundant, diverse and steady talent pool.

PLAY

From hiking trails and water sports to athletic events and shopping, there is always something fun to do in Waco.

Located along two riverfronts, Waco’s Cameron Park is one of the largest municipal parks in Texas. The beautiful park features towering trees, breathtaking cliffs and a National Recreation Trail system. For more than 100 years, the 416-acre park has been constantly abuzz with parties, festivals and sporting events. And the relatively

The Balcones Distillery gift shop and tasting room has become a popular stop on the Waco Silo Trolley and attracts upwards of 300 visitors per week.

Photo provided by Balcones Distillery

mild climate in Central Texas makes an active lifestyle easy year-round.

Waco’s cultural opportunities offer a wide spectrum of engaging opportunities for learners and visitors of all ages. The city is home to multiple arts organizations that stage both theatrical and musical productions and art exhibits. It also features several museums and historical homes that bring the history of Waco to life.

The Waco Mammoth National Monument, part of the National Park System, is a 100-plus acre stretch of wooded parkland providing a glimpse into the lives of Columbian mammoth bones discovered in Waco along the Bosque River.

WACO HISTORY

The first people to leave their mark in the Waco area were the Huaco Native Americans, a band of the Wichita tribe that arrived in Central Texas in the 1700s. They were an agrarian tribe that survived by farming the fertile soil along the river bank, and eventually became the namesake of the community.

By 1830, westward expansion brought adventure-seeking pioneers to the area, making Waco a true frontier town. In 1837, the Texas Rangers established Fort Fisher, but it was quickly abandoned. In 1844, just eight miles south of Waco, the Torrey brothers decided to put down roots and establish a trading post. Waco became a part of the famous Chisholm Trail, and more than 600,000 head of cattle passed through the city each year.

George B. Erath and developer Jacob de Cordova surveyed the land in 1848 and mapped out the area around the Bosque River for Neil McLennan, a Scottish Highlander who settled in Waco in 1845 and eventually became McLennan County’s namesake.

By 1870, Waco was home to more than 3,000 residents, who witnessed the completion of Waco’s most famous landmark, the Suspension Bridge, in 1869. Measuring 475 feet in length, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world. Waco also became home to several institutions of higher learning, including the first co-educational

university west of the Mississippi, now Baylor University.

The cotton industry arrived shortly after the completion of the Suspension Bridge and brought the railroad with it. By the early 1900s, Waco was recognized as the largest inland cotton market in the world, and the home to the first skyscraper in Texas, the ALICO building.

Despite a devastating tornado in the 1950s and other challenges, Waco continues to thrive and is in a period of new growth and revitalization centered on the downtown area and in expanding high tech industries. The city is also the birthplace of Dr Pepper, the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum and the Texas Sports Hall of Fame. For more information on the city’s history, visit wacohistory.org. 

A museum dedicated to the nation’s oldest major soft drink - Dr Pepper! They offer three floors of exhibits featuring information about many different soft drinks.

Photo by Mark Randolph / City of Waco

Photo courtesy of Waco Surf

THE HEART OF TEXAS

Waco is in the Heart of Texas and serves as an important passageway for the state.

On average, more than 140,000 cars drive through Waco on Interstate 35 every day. Located almost exactly halfway between Austin and Dallas-Ft. Worth, Waco is easy to reach and easy to navigate.

Waco is also located within the Texas Triangle, one of the nation’s 11 megaregions, which has been an important driver to the area’s prosperity.

As part of the Texas Triangle, Waco is within 100 miles of 8.7 million people (30% of the Texas population) and more than 640,000 higher education students. Residents enjoy the secluded, “small-town” feel that Waco provides without the loss of resources or people.

WACO NEIGHBORHOODS

Waco boasts great neighborhoods and unique surrounding smaller communities. Waco offers a wonderful urban living environment with neighborhood schools, quality of life amenities, golf courses and shopping with minimal traffic. It typically takes no more than 15 minutes to get from one point to another. Rural options are also close at hand with access to ranch land and the beautiful Texas Hill Country.

The Greater Waco housing market is strong with record activity in new home construction and existing home sales.

For a complete list of neighborhoods, please visit the neighborhood association websites at Waco-Texas.com. Below is a snapshot of the local housing market.

THE HEART OF TEXAS

Photo provided by Mark Randolph / City of Waco

ROBINSON NEIGHBORHOOD

LORENA NEIGHBORHOOD

AUSTIN AVE. AREA

CHINA SPRING

China Spring is a community located in the northwest portion of Waco, representing more than 6,000 residents. China Spring is a close-knit community and has its own school district. China Spring ISD strives to provide a quality education to each student while balancing strong extracurricular and athletic teams.

LACY LAKEVIEW & BELLMEAD

The cities of Lacy Lakeview and Bellmead are located north of Waco and are home to Connally and La Vega ISDs. Both communities have populations of around 10,000 and offer residents various parks and amenities. Residents enjoy easy access to Baylor University, Texas State Technical College, McLennan Community College, and Waco via Interstate 35 and Loop 340.

LORENA

Located south of Waco, Lorena has a population of around 2,000 with a strong community and smaller school district. Lorena is attractive to potential residents because it is conveniently located just outside of town and provides spacious area for families to settle down and grow.

ROBINSON

Robinson is home to more than 12,500 people and is an ideal community for raising a family. Located southeast of Waco, Robinson has a park with four Little League baseball fields and a swimming pool. Robinson has its own school district that provides students with excellent academics and athletics.

WOODWAY/HEWITT

Woodway, located on the southwest boundary of Waco, is a master-planned community set in rolling hills with views of Lake Waco. Its neighbor city, Hewitt, has an amphitheater and joint city hall and library. Both of these communities offer a “small-town” feel but are close enough to Waco to access all its amenities. Both lie within the Midway school district, which offers excellent academic and athletic programs. 

For more statistical data, visit WacoCustomReports.com

Retail centers have been moving into the area at a rapid pace, and with the new I-35 extension of Hewitt Drive, Hewitt is poised for continued positive growth.

Photo by Mark Randolph / City of Waco

Downtown Waco is the heart of the city, encapsulating the natural beauty of the Brazos River, the rich culture of the community, and the vibrant energy of visitors and Wacoans alike!

The Greater Waco Chamber constructed its headquarters in a prime downtown location, following a 2007 City of Waco announcement of more than $678 million in new public and private investment and the success of its own capital campaign. Due to the resurgence of development in the area, historic buildings have been renovated and repurposed as office and urban living spaces. New housing options are

also abundant in the neighborhoods flanking the downtown district.

Within walking distance from unique retail businesses, including candy and antique shops, and specialty boutiques, are fine and casual dining options. From listening to live music, to watching a movie, to trying a craft brew or wine tasting on a roof top, Downtown Waco offers residents and visitors a destination either day or night proving it is a fantastic place to live, work and play.

Baylor University’s McLane Stadium, which sits on the banks of the Brazos River, is a favorite among Baylor fans and boat owners that sailgate around the stadium during the Baylor football games. Just down the road from McLane Stadium are the Magnolia Market at the Silos, Silos Baking Co., and Magnolia Press Coffee Co., created

by Joanna and Chip Gaines. Of record, more than 2 million people visit the Magnolia Market at the Silos annually. The couple are also planning a new hotel venture by revitalizing a historic downtown building.

A few blocks from the Silo District is Balcones Distilling, an international award-winning whisky distiller founded in Waco.

The Waco Downtown Farmers Market is a mainstay on Saturday mornings and brings regionally grown and produced goods to downtown Waco supporting local farmers and artisans and enriching the culture of the community.

For more information on downtown developments, visit WacoChamber.com. 

Photo by Mark Randolph / City of Waco

McLane Stadium, located on the north bank of the Brazos River, is one of a few major college football stadiums where fans can arrive at the stadium by boat. Fans can “sailgate” in the Baylor Basin, a cove that adjoins the stadium.

Whether it is volunteering, part-time work or continuing education, retirees in the Greater Waco area have plenty to keep them engaged. After a day of recreation at a local gym or park, retirees can find comfort in a suburban home, downtown loft, an all-inclusive community for seniors or enjoy beautiful views on acres of land in a surrounding community.

Another great resource for seniors is provided by the Area Agency on Aging from the Heart of Texas Council of Governments. Their services provide older adults and their family members or caregivers efficient access to needed services and advocacy in six county regions: Bosque, Falls, Freestone, Hill, Limestone and McLennan counties. For more information on the Area Agency on Aging, please visit hotcog.org.

ORGANIZATIONS THAT SUPPORT

SENIORS:

Continuing Education

McLennan Community College offers a broad-based continuing education program. For more information, call (254) 299-8888 or visit McLennan.edu.

Retired Senior and Volunteer Program

Sponsored by McLennan Community College, RSVP brings together citizens age of 55 and older with non-profit organizations for volunteer opportunities in a six-county area. For more information, call (254) 299-8577 or visit hotrsvp.org.

Meals on Wheels

Central Texas Senior Ministry provides meals to the more than 750 homebound clients in Falls, Hill and

McLennan Counties with the help of volunteers through Meals on Wheels. For more information, call (254) 752-0316 or visit mowwaco.org.

Friends for Life

Volunteers are brought into nursing homes to brighten the lives of seniors. The agency also helps elderly and disabled people live independently. For more information, call (254) 772-7600.

Volunteer Opportunities

The City of Waco has multiple volunteer opportunities available to local residents and the area has multiple non-profits that are always in need of volunteers, board members and advocates. To learn more about the volunteer options in Waco, visit www.waco-texas.com/volunteer.asp. 

TRANSPORTATION

The Greater Waco area’s success is due in part to its central location and easy access along the Interstate 35 corridor between Dallas and Austin. This great location makes the transportation of goods, services and people simple and cost-effective.

Waco Regional Airport

American Eagle offers daily flights between Waco Regional Airport (ACT) and Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) International airport.

The Waco Regional Airport carrier exceeds national averages for on-time flights and passengers enjoy short 20 to 25 minute flights to the DFW airport.

The airport features free parking, 30-minute loading and unloading options, fast security screening and four on-site rental car companies. As a regional airport, travelers find their drive to the airport convenient and less stressful than commuting to more distant airports.

For more information, call (866) FLYWACO or visit FlyWacoRegional.com.

Waco Transit System

The Waco Transit System provides safe and reliable public transportation to the citizens of Waco and the surrounding communities. Services include a fixed-route bus service within

Waco, the Baylor University Shuttle (BUS) and a van for individuals with special transportation needs.

The City of Waco also offers free shuttle service to help navigate the Silo District of downtown Waco, which runs about every 10 minutes, Monday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Free parking is also available at shuttle drop off and pick up areas, or you can flag a trolley at any location on its route. The Silo District trolley, as well as other Waco Transit shuttles, can be tracked online at RideWaco.com.

Additionally, the Transit System features the DASH, a free service that makes six stops near most places in the downtown area to make getting around downtown Waco convenient.

For more information, call (254) 750-1613 or visit Waco-Texas.com. 

2022 TAXATION

Sales & Income

Municipal Sales Tax 1.5%

State Sales Tax 6.25%

McLennan County Tax 0.5% Total 8.25%

State Income Tax 0%

Real Property Tax (per $100)

McLennan County 0.376355

McLennan Community College 0.139074 Farm to Market 0.000000

Cities

Bellmead 0.323169 Hewitt 0.540102 Lacy Lakeview 0.297547 Lorena 1.164540 McGregor 1.037681 Robinson 1.124384 Waco 0.760000 West 0.520522 Woodway 0.417174

School Districts

China Spring ISD 1.294070

Connally ISD 1.087309

La Vega ISD 1.188151 Lorena ISD 1.164540 McGregor ISD 1.037681 Midway ISD 1.124600 Robinson ISD 1.124384 Waco ISD 1.241869 West ISD 1.147534

Source: Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER)

FAITH

Waco has a strong religious community that dates back generations. The religious landscape in Waco today is diverse. More than 200 places of worship representing more than 30 denominations and faiths offer services from traditional to contemporary. Faith-based organizations in Waco focus on reaching out to the elderly, hungry and impoverished populations.

For more information, please visit the member directory at the back of this book for a full list of places of worship throughout Greater Waco. 

Photo by Mark Randolph / City of Waco

The Waco Transit runs a fixed route bus service (5 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturdays), as well as the Baylor University Shuttle (BUS) and a Demand Response Van.

MCLENNAN COUNTY CITIES

BELLMEAD

3015 Bellmead Drive Waco TX 76705

(254) 799-2436

Bellmead.com

BEVERLY HILLS

3418 Memorial Drive Waco TX 76711 (254) 752-2584

BeverlyHillsTexas.net

BRUCEVILLE-EDDY

143 Wilcox Drive, Ste. A Bruceville-Eddy TX 76524 (254) 859-5964

Bruceville-Eddy.us

CRAWFORD

P.O. Box 7 • Crawford TX 76638 (254) 486-2125

City-data.com/city/Crawford-Texas

GHOLSON

155 Wesley Chapel Road Waco TX 76705 (254) 829-0100

City-Data.com/City/Gholson-Texas

GOLINDA

7039 Golinda Drive Golinda TX 76655 (254) 881-7333

CityofGolinda.org

HALLSBURG

1115 Wilbanks Drive Hallsburg TX 76705 (254) 875-2022

City-Data.com/City/Hallsburg-Texas

HEWITT

200 Patriot Court Hewitt TX 76643 (254) 666-6171

CityofHewitt.com

LACY-LAKEVIEW

501 E. Craven Ave. Waco TX 76705 (254) 799-2458

LacyLakeview.org

LEROY

10 E. Commerce St. Leroy TX 76654 (254) 822-4134

City-Data.com/city/Leroy-Texas

LORENA

107 A S. Frontage Road Lorena TX 76655 (254) 857-4641 ci.lorena.tx.us

MART

112 N. Commerce • Mart TX 76664 (254) 876-2462 CityofMart.net

MCGREGOR

P.O. Box 192 • McGregor TX 76657 (254) 840-2806 McGregor-Texas.com

MOODY

606 Ave. E • Moody TX 76557 (254) 853-2314 CityOfMoody.net

RIESEL

104 N. Hwy 6 • Riesel TX 76682 (254) 896-6501 CityofRiesel.org

ROBINSON

111 W. Lyndale • Robinson TX 76706 (254) 662-1415 RobinsonTexas.org

ROSS

P.O. Box 40 • Ross TX 76684 (254) 495-0737

City-Data.com/city/Ross-Texas

VALLEY MILLS

P.O. Box 641 • Valley Mills TX 76689 (254) 932-6146 VMTX.us

WACO

P.O. Box 2570 • Waco TX 76702 (254) 750-5600 Waco-Texas.com

WEST

P.O. Box 97 • West TX 76691 (254) 826-5351 CityOfWest.com

WOODWAY

922 Estates Drive Woodway TX 76712 (254) 772-4480 Woodway-Texas.com

EMPLOYMENT

Job retention and recruitment is on the rise in Waco. Given the strength and diversity of Greater Waco’s economic base and the community’s growth and stability, Waco’s current unemployment rates remain below state and national averages while labor force and employment continue to show positive trends.

Waco’s prime location has played a key role in its success attracting new businesses and expanding existing companies. The city has a diverse mix of industries and a highly-skilled professional and technical workforce primed for innovation and future growth.

DIVERSE ECONOMY AND TRAINED WORKFORCE

Within the Greater Waco area, the combination of local industries is well-balanced with no single industry representing more than 20% of the regional market. Compared to state and national averages, Waco is strong in manufacturing, healthcare, education and financial services.

Waco has a labor force of 130,992 with a regional outreach of 337,626, which allows employers to acquire talent for their businesses while operating in a region with a low cost of living.

A healthy workforce requires strong education partners too. Waco’s five institutions of higher learning provide a direct workforce pipeline and the continued training programs to provide opportunities for current employees to remain up-to-date.

As a part of Waco’s education and business opportunities, the Baylor Research and Innovation Collaborative (BRIC) is a groundbreaking partnership that brings together private industry and workforce development under one roof. The BRIC is the first project to be accomplished in the Central Texas Technology and Research Park and houses a variety of engineering, research and other advanced technology disciplines. The BRIC also features space and opportunities for private industries to partner in research and product commercialization through direct partnerships. 

SIX KEY INDUSTRIES

ADVANCED MANUFACTURING

At 12% of the local economy, the Waco MSA exceeds both the State and the Nation in manufacturing as a percentage of the industry base. Manufacturers include transportation equipment, components, pharmaceuticals and advanced food products, and all benefit from a strong pipeline of industrial talent.

AEROSPACE & DEFENSE

Waco has more than 40 aviation and aviation-related companies that manufacture aircraft, components and materials. Greater Waco is home to three airports (Waco Regional Airport, McGregor Executive Airport, Texas State Technical College Industrial Airport) and four aviation curriculum schools. From American Eagle jet flights to and from DFW International Airport, to the 8,600’ industrial runway at Texas State Technical College, the Greater Waco community has invested heavily in the aerospace industry.

SUPPLY CHAIN & LOGISTICS

Our community understands that location, transportation assets and the workforce are vital to this industry’s bottom line. In addition to Waco’s central location within 200 miles of the State’s largest metros, Greater Waco is within two-days’ travel of most of the United States. Access to Interstate 35, four State and Federal highways, three rail providers and three airports provides a cost-saving competitive edge to logistics operations located in the community.

HEALTHCARE TECHNOLOGY

The area’s medical sector is experiencing vigorous growth with more than $700 million in investment and expansion since 2005. Health and education employment accounts for 18% of the economy, and Waco’s two non-profit acute-care hospitals, Ascension Providence and Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Hillcrest, are two of the top five employers in Greater Waco.

PROFESSIONAL & FINANCIAL SERVICES

This industry ranges from legal, finance and insurance to business support, engineering and technical consulting services. Many of these companies are shared service operations where Greater Waco serves as a regional headquarters.

INNOVATION

Greater Waco’s entrepreneurial ecosystem has led to rapid growth in the innovation sector. In addition to drawing on talent from local higher education institutions, Greater Waco is supporting entrepreneurs with both brick & mortar coworking space (Hustle) and programmatic support providing access to mentors, lenders, subject matter experts and more. Research and commercialization assistance and partnerships, such as those at the Baylor Research and Innovation Collaborative, can help entrepreneurs and innovators take their ideas from the lab to international markets. 

The Greater Waco region has a dynamic and diverse economy with emphasis on six key industries; this focus aids both the employer and talent base in finding the perfect fit.

ENTREPRENEURIAL RESOURCES

BAYLOR UNIVERSITY

The John F. Baugh Center for Entrepreneurship offers the Innovation Evaluation Program and the Institute for Family Business for practicing and potential entrepreneurs. The center leverages the resources of Baylor’s entrepreneurship program, ranked top 5 in the nation. For more information, visit Baylor.edu/entrepreneur.

CITY CENTER WACO

City Center Waco directs development of greater downtown Waco by helping manage the established environment, inspiring and collaborating with partners, and continuing the conversation of developing downtown with stakeholders and the community. Visit CityCenterWaco.com for more information.

MCLENNAN COMMUNITY COLLEGE SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER

(SBDC)

SBDC staff members provide oneon-one counseling to business owners or prospective business owners through individual sessions on development of a

business plan, financing options, human resources, marketing, strategy and business development. Visit MCCSBDC.com for more information.

STARTUP WACO

Startup Waco formed via collaboration of cross-sector partnerships that aspire to lead Waco’s entrepreneurial support efforts and elevate Waco as a hub for business innovation. They are dedicated to engaging the Waco community to embrace a culture of innovation, entrepreneurship and new thinking by empowering entrepreneurs and innovators to build and grow successful businesses. Located in the heart of Downtown Waco, Startup Waco and its accelerator space provides amenities, programming and resources to foster startup growth. Visit StartupWaco.com. 

EMPLOYMENT

WACO MSA

Date Labor Force Unemployment

2022 (Sept) 130,992 3.4% 2021 130,986 4.3% 2020 130,180 6.4% 2019 126,770 3.2%

REGIONAL

Regional counties: Bell, Bosque, Coryell, Falls, Hill, Limestone, McLennan

Date Labor Force Unemployment

2022 (Sept) 337,626 3.9% 2021 335,518 4.9% 2020 333,084 6.6% 2019 328,276 3.4%

TEXAS

Date Labor Force Unemployment 2022 (Sept) 14,538,929 3.8% 2021 14,254,432 4.9% 2020 14,208,368 8.3% 2019 14,111,297 3.4%

UNITED STATES

Date Labor Force Unemployment

2022 (Sept) 159,003,000 3.3% 2021 161,392,000 4.6% 2020 160,073,000 7.7% 2019 163,943,000 3.3%

Source: Texas Workforce Commission

Sanderson

AbbVie

PROFESSIONAL AND FINANCIAL SERVICES SUPPLY

SITE SELECTOR TOOLS

WacoProspector.com is the database for commercial and industrial real estate listings in Greater Waco. More than 250 listings are available with detailed site selection analysis to help prospective companies and investors identify the best Greater Waco location to access their targeted customers, employees and market.

WacoProspector.com allows visitors to search available properties based on real estate specifications. The site can also provide demographic and business analysis, thematic mapping and marketing reports for a 60-mile radius and one-hour drive time. To further refine a search, the site offers GIS mapping of traffic counts, zoning, incentive zones, utilities, site conditions and development activity in real time with a Google Maps interface.

For more information or to find a property, visit WacoProspector.com or call (254) 757-5636.

WacoCustomReports.com offers a robust selection of demographics and workforce comparatives and analysis, business composition, tax rates, incentive summaries, regional community profiles, business park profiles, quality of life descriptions and more.

More than 85 individual reports are available and can deliver customized market research for Waco MSA.

These dynamic reports are constantly updated to provide convenient, thorough and accurate understanding of the benefits of the Greater Waco market.

For more information or to customize market research, visit WacoCustomReports.com or call (254) 757-5636. 

GREATER WACO MAJOR EMPLOYERS

Baylor University 5698

Ascension Providence 2518

Waco ISD 2373

Baylor Scott & White Health 2283

HEB Stores 2000

City of Waco 1522

Midway ISD 1302

L3Harris 1178

WAL-MART Stores 1174

McLennan County 1088

Sanderson Farms, Inc. 1040

VA Central Texas Health Care 886

Mars Wrigley Confectionery 885

Dept. of Veterans Affairs Regional Office 796

AbbVie 747

Space X 729

Support Services Group, Inc. 715

American Income Life Insurance 693

McLennan Community College 679

Versalift - A Time Manufacturing Company 638

Clayton Homes 620

Big Creek Construction 617

Cargill 603

WACO’S PLACE IN THE TEXAS TRIANGLE

THE TEXAS TRIANGLE

one of the nation’s 11 megaregions, is an important driver to Greater Waco’s prosperity during the next 40 years.

Interstate 35, the backbone of the Texas Triangle, is within 100 miles (1.5 hr drive):

• 90 miles south of Dallas/Fort Worth

• 90 miles north of Austin

• 8.7 million people (30 percent of Texas)

• 26 Fortune 500 headquarters

• 2 international airports (one of US Top 10), four regional airports

• 2 inland ports (UP/BNSF)

• + 520,000 higher education students

TRIANGLE CITIES

WACO

• Home to Texas State Technical College Waco, McLennan Community College, Tarleton State UniversityWaco, Texas Tech University at Waco and Baylor University

,

• Regional Healthcare providers

• Advanced Manufacturing economy including AbbVie, L3Harris and Mars Wrigley Confectionery

• Entrepreneurial hub for franchising and insurance

• Centrally located for supply chain management

DALLAS /FORT WORTH

• Major inland transportation hub with Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, the fifth busiest in the world

• Distribution and service center for surrounding area and beyond state lines

• State’s banking and financial center

• Strong telecommunications

• Significant oil presence

AUSTIN

• State capital

• High technology with 25 percent to 30 percent of workforce tied to this industry

• Home to the main campus of the University of Texas

• Live Music Capital of the World

SAN ANTONIO

• The Alamo City claims an important place in the state’s history

• The United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement has expanded the city’s distribution role for South Texas and northern Mexico

• The famous River Walk and other attractions draw visitors

• Military presence with Fort Sam Houston and Lackland and Randolph Air Force bases

HOUSTON

• Largest port in the United States based on international waterborne tonnage

• Gateway to Texas’ international business

• Half the jobs are related to oil and natural gas

• Home to Texas Medical Center, the world’s largest medical center and Johnson Space Center

LOCAL INCENTIVES

For complete guidelines and applications, visit WacoChamber.com or call (254) 757-5636.

Tax Abatements from Area Cities, County, Community College may be granted for value-added investment in new facilities and business expansion meeting certain criteria.

Cash grants through the Waco-McLennan County Economic Development Corporation provide incentives for land, infrastructure, training, and job creation to qualifying projects and/or companies on a case-by-case basis.

Waco Industrial Foundation purchases land and develops infrastructure in industrial areas and has approximately 1,500 acres of available land including: Texas Central Park (545 acres), Robinson Business Park (635 acres), Waco International Aviation Park (263 acres).

Regional EDCs:

Bellmead Economic Development Corporation

McGregor Economic Development Corporation

Lorena Economic Development Corporation

Moody Economic Development Corporation

West Economic Development Corporation

Industrial Business Grant Program provides grants to eligible businesses for new or expanded facilities and personal property investment in many local cities or McLennan County.

Freeport Tax Exemption on qualified inventory located within McLennan County and participating city and school districts.

Workforce Recruitment and Custom Training

Custom training and recruitment programs by Texas State Technical College Waco, McLennan Community College and Workforce Solutions for the Heart of Texas.

Tax Increment Financing (TIF) reinvests funds back into the area for infrastructure improvements, landscaping and sidewalks in Downtown Waco and area communities.

Tax Increment Reinvestment Zones are available across multiple Greater Waco communities and industrial parks. These zones provide funds for public infrastructure. This not an additional tax; instead, these zones collect a percentage of the increased property value following new capital investment projects to make these investments.

Public Improvement District (PID) assessment of 10 cents per $100 valuation of property in the district is used only within those boundaries to provide services that increase the value of properties in Downtown Waco.

Building Construction Fee Waiver for construction/occupancy/renovation fees in the Brazos River Corridor and the PID.

Commercial Building Tax Abatement provides a real and/or personal property tax abatement for building renovations in the Brazos River Corridor and the PID.

Historic Preservation Tax Credit on locally designated or recognized historic property.

Neighborhood Small Business Loan encourages expansion or start up of retail businesses in the Brazos River Corridor and the Public Improvement District.

Owner-Occupied Renovations and Development Tax Abatement encourages redevelopment/renovation of substandard structures that create mixed-use facilities in the Brazos River Corridor and PID.

U.S. Foreign Trade Zone #246 provides tariff exemption on goods that are imported, manufactured and then exported if goods are distributed in the United States, then duties are required but only when goods leave the FTZ.

STATE INCENTIVES

Texas Enterprise Fund grants allow the state to close deals that bring in new jobs and employers.

Texas Enterprise Zone Program and Projects enable businesses within economically distressed areas to receive state and local tax sales refund for new or expanding businesses.

State Sales & Use Tax Exemptions:

• Manufacturing Machinery and Equipment

• Labor for constructing new facilities

• Machinery used in processing, packing or marketing agricultural products

Natural Gas and Electricity: Texas companies are exempt from paying state sales and use tax on electricity and natural gas used in manufacturing tangible personal property.

Texas Capital Fund Infrastructure Program provides financial resources to non-entitlement communities for public infrastructure needed to assist a business that commits to create or retain permanent jobs for low- and moderate-income persons.

Texas Capital Fund Real Estate Development Program provides financial resources and encourages business development and expansions in non-entitlement communities.

Texas Workforce Commission

• Skills Development Fund assists businesses with customized job training.

• Self-Sufficiency Fund assists businesses with customized job training programs to assist recipients of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Food Stamps, and Needy Parents.

Texas Industry Development Revolving Loan Program provides capital to Texas communities and eligible 501(c) 3 corporations at favorable market rates.

INDUSTRIAL PARKS

AREA INDUSTRIAL PARKS

BELLMEAD INDUSTRIAL PARK

40 acres

Contact: Bellmead Economic Development Corporation (254) 799-2436

Major tenants: Home Depot, Fastenal Industrial Supply, Discount Tire, Highwood Machine Tool, Diversified Product Development and Holiday Inn Express

HEWITT COMMERCE PARK

147 acres of commercial and light industrial property

Contact: Reid Peevey Real Estate (254) 752-9500

Major tenants: FedEx Ground, TFE, Averitt, Brazos Imaging, General Implement Distributors and Wal-Mart

MCGREGOR INDUSTRIAL PARK

9,800 acres of industrial and commercial property

Contact: City of McGregor (254) 840-2806

Major tenants: Ferguson, Insituform, Heart of Texas Electric Cooperative, Look Trailers, Messer, TransTech Fabrication, Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX), Knauf Insulation and Startex Builders

MOODY INDUSTRIAL PARK

87 acres of industrial and commercial property

Contact: David Jirasek (254) 770-0996

ROBINSON INDUSTRIAL PARK

145 acres

Contact: Jon W. Spelman Company (254) 776-2592

Major tenants: Stewart-Stevenson, Kenworth, Southeastern, Pilot Truck Plaza, Conway Freight, FedEx Freight, Saia LTL and XPO Logistics

ROBINSON YOUNG INDUSTRIAL PARK

40 acres

Contact: Jon W. Spelman Company (254) 776-2592

Major tenant: FreeFlight Systems

Waco Regional Airport Industrial Park has more than 215 acres available for businesses including 70+ acres in the Foreign Trade Zone. Aeronautical-related and non-aeronautical-related industry can locate in this area. A Triple Freeport Exemption is available along with Enterprise Zone designation.

WACO REGIONAL AIRPORT INDUSTRIAL PARK

Waco Regional Airport Industrial Park has more than 215 acres available for businesses of all types and sizes, including 70+ acres in Foreign Trade Zone No. 246.

Major tenants include Air Impressions, Blackhawk Aerospace, CenTex Aerospace, Dart Aircraft Parts and RAM Aircraft. Prime locations are available with ramp access connected directly to the airport runways.

Sites are also available on the airport

Foreign Trade Zone

Business Park

Available parcels

campus for companies that do not need runway access. The City of Waco and McLennan Community College recently opened a LEED Platinum emergency rescue training facility there.

Waco Regional Airport has expanded facilities with a new fire station, terminal waiting area, jetways and service by regional jets and updated platting of the 40-acre Foreign Trade Zone site.

For more information, call (254) 750-8656. 

The Waco International Aviation Park and the Texas State Technical College Waco Airport offer 263 acres available for business, including 100+ acres in the Foreign Trade Zone. This park provides ample space for aviation-related businesses and direct access to TSTC Waco aviation training programs. Triple Freeport Exemption is available along with Enterprise Zone designation.

Business Park

Available parcels

WACO INTERNATIONAL AVIATION PARK

Aviation is a growing sector in Waco’s economic development landscape. The Texas State Technical College (TSTC) Airport and Waco International Aviation Park (WIAP) provide sites for this industry to continue to grow.

The 1,100-acre WIAP owned by the Waco Industrial Foundation, offers various size lots up to 125 acres for

purchase that can accommodate office, research, manufacturing and distribution uses.

Adjacent to TSTC, WIAP provides unique proximity to a pool of highlyskilled future employees. This is ideal for companies interested in internships or co-op partnerships.

Major tenants at WIAP and business

park include L3Harris, Sanderson Farms, Dr Pepper Bottling, Sherwin Williams, Hesselbein Tire and Balcones Distilling encompassing more than 2,500 jobs and 2.9 million square feet of facilities.

For more information, call (254) 757-5636. 

ROBINSON BUSINESS PARK

The newest subdivision, Robinson Business Park, provides industrial sites ranging from 30 acres to more than 400 acres. The park features robust, industrial-grade utilities infrastructure that includes reclaimed water line access. Additionally, the park, which is located along Interstate 35 and Highway 6/Loop 340, provides commercial sites ranging up to 152 acres for large scale commercial development at this crucial intersection. Combined, 635 acres are available in the flagship Robinson Business Park.

For more information, call (254) 757-5636. 

Foreign Trade Zone

Commercial mixed use and Flex Industrial (152 acres)

Industrial (480 acres)

The 3,700-acre Texas Central Park includes 242 acres in the Foreign Trade Zone at Exchange Parkway and approximately 545 acres of available sites. Double Freeport Exemption is available along with enterprise zone designations.

Foreign Trade Zone

Business Park

Available parcels

TEXAS CENTRAL PARK

Texas Central Park spans nearly 3,700 acres in southwest Waco, making it the second largest business park in the region. The business park includes a Professional Park on Wycon Drive, Class A Business Park off Gateway Boulevard, and Rail Park on Mars Drive. All sites have been master planned and have utility infrastructure in place or engineered for commercial use.

The park, which is bounded by Highway 84 in the west, Highway 6/Loop 340 to the north, and Interstate 35 to the east also features a Union Pacific Class I Mainline with BNSF trackage rights.

Approximately 545 acres of shovel-ready sites remain available in Texas Central Park for everything from advanced manufacturing and distribution centers to office campuses and service providers. The Park also includes more than 242 acres of Foreign Trade Zone #246, which is administered through the City of Waco and Greater Waco Chamber.

Additionally, Texas Central Park is home to more than 90 corporate tenants, over 12,500 jobs and 11 million square feet of facilities. Major tenants include AbbVie, Coca-Cola, Mars Wrigley Confectionery, Holt Manufacturing, Tractor Supply Company, Amazon and many more.

For more information, call (254) 757-5636. 

Texas Central Park is centered on the intersection of Interstate 35 and Texas Highway 6

Photo by Keith Kusler

BUSINESS INCENTIVES

Greater Waco offers more than 20 incentive programs to support diverse projects. Working in collaboration with local, state and federal partners, the Greater Waco Chamber helps new and expanding companies secure the incentives needed to complete significant, deadline-driven projects.

The Greater Waco Chamber team has successfully secured aggressive tax abatements, job creation grants from the McLennan County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and regional EDCs, Texas Enterprise Fund, Emerging Technology Fund; land and infrastructure incentives; inventory tax exemptions; Skills Development Fund training grants in partnership with area universities; Enterprise Zone designations; and Foreign Trade Zone benefits for businesses.

Waco-McLennan County Economic Development Corporation (WMCEDC)

An incentive fund supported by the City of Waco and McLennan County to diversify the WacoMcLennan County economy and build wealth through highquality job creation and capital investment.

Waco Industrial Foundation (WIF)

The driving force in economic development in Greater Waco for more than 60 years by acquiring and developing property for economic development. 

EDUCATION

Afull range of educational opportunities abound throughout the Greater Waco area for all ages and grade levels. In McLennan County alone there are 20 school districts, four charter schools and more than a dozen private and parochial schools with a collective student population of 47,255.

Waco Independent School District (Waco ISD) is the largest district in the county with more than 16,000 students on 26 campuses. The district offers an advanced academic program, bilingual/ESL programs and a dropout recovery program are offered in addition to traditional curriculum.

Career and technology education includes programs in health, business, engineering, criminal justice, tourism and liberal arts. Greater Waco boasts two academies strengthening CTE for area students. In addition, the

area includes three P-TECH campuses, in Connally ISD, Midway ISD and Rapoport Academy Public Schools.

Students may also attend a neighborhood school or apply for random lottery selection to magnet

schools that encompass all grade levels. Magnet campuses provide a wide-ranging curriculum that includes technology, fine arts, Montessori, science, business and engineering. 

The Paul L. Foster Campus for Business and Innovation seamlessly integrates cutting-edge technology to support interactive learning and collaboration.

Photo by Molly Winters

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

SUMMIT SCHOOL

1910 Austin Ave. Waco, TX 76701 (254) 307-4665

SummitWaco.org

EAGLE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

6125 Bosque Blvd. Waco, TX 76710 (254) 772-2122 ECAWaco.com

LIVE OAK CLASSICAL 400 S. Fourth St. Waco, TX 76707 (254) 714-1007

LiveOakClassical.com

BISHOP LOUIS REICHER

CATHOLIC SCHOOL 2208 N. 23rd St Waco TX 76708 (254) 754-2041

BishopReicher.com

ST. PAUL’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL 517 Columbus Ave. Waco, TX 76701 (254) 753-0246

SPESWaco.org

VALOR PREPARATORY ACADEMY 4600 Sanger Ave. Waco, TX 76710 (254) 235-0575

ValorPrep.com

VANGUARD COLLEGE

PREPARATORY SCHOOL 2517 Mt. Carmel Waco, TX 76710 (254) 772-8111

Vanguard.org

WACO MONTESSORI SCHOOL 1920 Columbus Ave. Waco, TX 76701 (254) 754-3966

WacoMontessoriSchool.org

WOODWAY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 13000 Woodway Drive Woodway, TX 76712 (254) 772-1298

WoodwayChristianSchool.org

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

AXTELL ISD

308 Ottawa • Axtell, TX 76624 (254) 863-5301 • AxtellISD.net

BOSQUEVILLE ISD 7636 Rock Creek Road Waco, TX 76708 (254) 757-3113 BosquevilleISD.org

BRUCEVILLE-EDDY ISD 1 Eagle Drive Eddy, TX 76524 (254) 859-5525 BEISD.net

CHINA SPRING ISD 12166 Yankee Road China Spring, TX 76633 (254) 836-1115 • ChinaSpringISD.net

CONNALLY ISD

200 Cadet Way Waco, TX 76705 (254) 296-6460 • Connally.org

CRAWFORD ISD 200 Pirate Drive Crawford, TX 76638 (254) 486-2381 • Crawford-ISD.net

GHOLSON ISD 137 Hamilton Drive Waco, TX 76705 (254) 829-1528 • GholsonISD.org

HALLSBURG ISD 2313 Hallsburg Road Waco, TX 76705 (254) 875-2331 • HallsburgISD.com

HARMONY SCIENCE ACADEMY - WACO 1900 N. Valley Mills Drive Waco, TX 76710 (254) 751-7878 hsawaco.harmonytx.org

HARMONY SCHOOL OF INNOVATION 1110 S. Valley Mills Drive Beverly Hills, TX 76711 (254) 235-0321 hsiwaco.harmonytx.org

LA VEGA ISD 400 E. Loop 340 Waco, TX 76705 (254) 299-6700 • LaVegaISD.org

LORENA ISD 308 N. Frontage Road Lorena, TX 76655 (254) 857-3239• LorenaISD.net

MART ISD 1100 JL Davis Ave. Mart, TX 76664 (254) 876-2523 • MartISD.org

MCGREGOR ISD 525 Bluebonnet Parkway McGregor, TX 76657 (254) 840-2828 • McGregor-ISD.org

MIDWAY ISD 13885 Woodway Dr. Woodway, TX 76712 (254) 761-5610 • MidwayISD.org

MOODY ISD

12084A South Lane Moody, TX 76557 (254) 853-2172 • MoodyISD.org

PREMIER HIGH SCHOOLWACO

4720 N 19th St. Waco, TX 76708 (254) 236-6200 premierhighschools.com/waco

RAPOPORT ACADEMY PUBLIC SCHOOL 1020 Elm Ave. • Waco, TX 76704 (254) 754-8000 RapoportAcademy.com

RIESEL ISD

600 Fredrick St. • Riesel, TX 76682 (254) 896-5000 • RieselISD.org

ROBINSON ISD

500 W. Lyndale • Waco, TX 76706 (254) 662-0194 • RISDWeb.org

WACO CHARTER SCHOOL 500 Franklin Ave. • Waco, TX 76701 (254) 753-0331 • EOACWaco.org

WACO ISD 501 Franklin Ave. • Waco, TX 76701 (254) 755-9473 • WacoISD.org

WEST ISD 406 W. Shook • West, TX 76691 (254) 981-2000 • WestISD.net

ESC Region 12

One of 20 regional education service centers statewide, Education Service Center Region 12 offers training and expert assistance to educators and school personnel to increase student achievement. Based in Waco, ESC Region 12 serves 76 school districts, 10 charter schools and 22 private/parochial schools in Bell, Bosque, Coryell, Falls, Freestone, Hamilton, Hill, Lampasas, Limestone, McLennan, Mills and Navarro counties.

Community Services:

• Education Jobs Database

• Student Disability Screening Information

• Meeting Space Rental

Photo by ESC Region 12

MCLENNAN COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS

Greater Waco Advanced Manufacturing Academy (GWAMA)

GWAMA is a public, business-and-industry-led magnet high school that serves 10th through 12th grade students seeking to access rigorous and engaging coursework and high quality instruction in science, technology, engineering and mathematics as well as employability skills. Students attend GWAMA for one-half of the school day and attend their home campus the other half.

Supported by 28 local industry and business organizations, students may apply for an academy: welding, architecture, construction science or digital electronics/ robotics/automation. Students earn dual credit and certifications from Texas State Technical College Waco while attending

GWAMA

PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS

• Waco High

• University High

• Robinson High

• Riesel High

• Moody High

• Midway High

• Methodist Children’s Home

GWAMA. Tuition and transportation are provided by home campus districts. Upon graduation from high school, students are highly sought for employment or college. To find out more information about GWAMA, please visit wacoisd.org/GWAMA. 

• McGregor High

• Lorena High

• La Vega High

• Bruceville-Eddy High

• Marlin High

• Mexia High

• Troy High

Greater Waco Advanced Health Care Academy (GWAHCA)

Assisted by the Department of Education Office of Innovation and Improvement, GWAHCA is comprised of junior and senior level students from numerous Waco area school districts who take extensive coursework in nursing, medical equipment technology and soft skills needed by local healthcare employers. 

GWAHCA PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS

• Bruceville-Eddy High

• Chilton High

• Crawford High

• Groesbeck High

• Methodist Children’s Home

• Mexia High

• Midway High

• Troy High

• University High

• Waco High

Photo courtesy of WISD

Photo courtesy of WISD

HIGHER EDUCATION

In addition to five traditional college and university campuses, the Greater Waco area offers various specialized training programs.

Baylor University

Baylor University is a private Christian university and a nationally ranked research institution, located on 735 acres along the Brazos River and near downtown Waco.

Chartered in 1845 by the last Congress of the Republic of Texas through the efforts of Baptist pioneers, Baylor is the oldest continuously operating university in Texas and is the world’s largest Baptist university.

The diverse, more than 16,500 student population represents all 50 states and more than 80 countries. The vibrant campus atmosphere, with 260 student organizations, is enhanced by Baylor’s participation as the only private university in the competitive Big 12 Conference for NCAA Division I athletics.

Texas State Technical College Waco

Texas State Technical College (TSTC) Waco was founded in 1965 with a mission to provide an educated, skilled workforce that can meet today’s – and tomorrow’s – labor market demands.

Guided by the needs of more than 900 business and industry college

partners, students spend the majority of their time in industry-equipped labs learning the latest programs and software and how to repair and operate the machinery critical to the field.

As part of the only state-assisted technical college system in Texas, TSTC is one of the largest residential two-year colleges in the nation offering programs pertinent to today’s workforce. TSTC seeks to develop critical and emerging technical educational programs to anticipate future industry needs. Cutting-edge programs such as Laser Electro-Optics, Solar Energy, Robotics, Digital Forensics, Nanotechnology and more ensure TSTC graduates stay on the forefront of changing workforce needs.

McLennan Community College

McLennan Community College (MCC) is a public two-year college that offers general associate degrees as well as one- and two-year specialized training that prepares students to go straight into the workforce.

The college offers more than 40 programs in health, business, emergency services, human services, performing arts and science. Many of those programs feed directly into bachelor’s degrees offered on MCC’s campus from state universities — including Texas Tech University and Tarleton State University. Master’s and doctoral degrees are also available.

The college has a diverse and vibrant population of about 9,000 students per semester, and is full of campus activities, student organizations, community

service and special enrichment opportunities. More than 600 people work at MCC, including about 250 faculty members, many of whom are state and national award winners and industry experts.

Texas Tech at Waco

Texas Tech University at Waco provides the ability to complete core curriculum requirements with McLennan Community College and upper level requirements with Texas Tech University, without leaving Waco. By incorporating University level education and the affordability of a local school, along with the partnership with MCC, TTU Waco offers a unique educational experience.

Tarleton State Waco

Tarleton State University - Waco serves over 1,000 students in 30 undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs at the McLennan Community College University Center.

Exciting fields like nursing, criminal justice, psychology, social work, education, business and computer information systems are among the many programs offered. Classes are offered evenings, days, weekends and online – convenient for a diverse population of working adults. 

Photo courtesy of Texas State Technical CollegeWaco

Photo courtesy of TTU Waco Biology

Electrical Lineworker is one of five TSTC programs offering money-back guarantees that ensure a tuition refund if graduates aren’t hired in their field within six months of graduation.

Texas Tech at Waco Biology strives to ensure our students receive the same courses, experience, and degree as Lubbock biology students.

PROGRAMS

Leadership Waco

Leadership, Education and Development (LEAD)

The LEAD program is a business and education partnership administered by the Greater Waco Chamber. The program pairs high school students from Waco ISD, Robinson ISD, Connally ISD, La Vega ISD, Midway ISD, West ISD, Harmony Science Academy, Methodist Children’s Home and Rapoport Academy with business leaders to foster mentoring relationships that educate and expose students to various business fields. By improving the students’ knowledge of higher education and potential career paths they expand their goals for the future. The program strives to motivate our students to graduate high school and pursue higher education, which in turn ensures greater employability and quality of life. Learn more at wacochamber.com/LEAD. 

The Waco Chamber conducts the Leadership Waco program to identify potential community leaders and provide these individuals with information about various facets of our community, which improves the quality of life of area residents. Solutions to community needs demand the active participation of informed citizens. Leadership Waco offers structured learning opportunities in an atmosphere that stimulates creative thinking and encourages participants to work together to utilize both new and proven tools to meet the challenges of today and to prepare for tomorrow. Learn more at wacochamber.com/Leadership-Waco. 

Teen Leadership Waco

Teen Leadership Waco (TLW) builds on the leadership skills of today’s youth to help develop them into future leaders throughout the Greater Waco community. Research shows that youth who begin volunteering and engaging in the community will continue this trend into adulthood. The program develops emerging leaders. It informs students about Waco’s history, goverment, economic and social issues, and prepares participants to undertake leadership roles to improve their environment. Learn more at wacochamber. com/Teen-Leadership-Waco. 

HEALTHCARE

When looking for compassionate health care from trusted physicians, Waco has you covered. No matter where you live in the Greater Waco area, quality health care is just around the corner.

Two non-profit acute-care hospitals, Ascension Providence and Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Hillcrest, offer state-of-the-art, full-service facilities for inpatient and outpatient care. In fact, Baylor Scott & White Medical Center –Hillcrest includes a cancer center that is designed to provide accessible quality care. Greater Waco’s healthcare sector also includes Baylor Scott & White clinics supported by Scott & White Memorial Hospital in Temple, Texas.

Waco Family Medicine provides primary care, women’s health, dental care and mental health treatment, and the Central Texas Veterans Health System operates a VA Hospital in Waco.

As the Greater Waco population grows and its residents get older, the healthcare community continues to grow with it. For healthcare professionals, this also means employment opportunities abound.

Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Hillcrest

The Baylor Scott & White Health (BSW) system contains more than 850 patient care sites which exist to serve all people by providing personalized health and wellness through exemplary care, education and research.

BSW - Hillcrest is the Waco area’s leading trauma facility, the only Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, and is home to the most comprehensive cancer center in the area. The Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility (IRF) at BSW – Hillcrest is the most comprehensive IRF between Georgetown and Dallas. The Southwest Sports Medicine specialists are the team physicians for Baylor Athletics in addition to serving athletes of all ages.

BSW – Hillcrest’s services in Waco also include seven primary care clinics, eight specialty practices, three pharmacies, plus nine Scott & White clinic locations serving the Waco area.

Ascension Providence

A member of Ascension—the largest non-profit health system in the U.S and the world’s largest Catholic health system—Ascension Providence is dedicated to spiritually-centered, holistic care, which sustains and improves the health of individuals and communities. Beginning in 1905 as Waco’s first hospital, Ascension Providence is now one of the community’s largest employers, offering comprehensive care to Greater Waco.

This health system also includes the Ascension Providence DePaul Center, a psychiatric and substance abuse resource center for families who are coping with sudden and unexpected mental health situations. Additionally, 30 Ascension Providence Clinics around the Greater Waco area provide a wide range of services for convenient healthcare from routine physicals and preventative medicine to treatment of illness and injury.

Waco Family Medicine

Waco Family Medicine is a federally qualified health center with 14 locations in McLennan and Bell counties. Its vision is “To improve the health and wellness of the underserved residents of the Heart of Texas by providing effective access to highquality comprehensive primary care and an exemplary training environment for tomorrow’s family physicians and other health care professionals.” Annually, the Center cares for more than 61,000 patients. Waco Family Medicine – Residency is in the top 2% of family medicine programs nationally, with up to 800 applicants vying for 12 spots each year. For more information, visit Wacofamilymedicine.org or call (254) 313-4200.

Premier ER Plus

Premier ER Plus is a freestanding emergency room and urgent care in one location. There are two freestanding ERs in the Greater Waco area, offering the same services and

Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Hillcrest’s 74-acre campus in Waco is home to the area’s only Level II trauma center, the only Level III NICU, the most comprehensive cancer center and the most comprehensive inpatient rehabilitation facility in the region.

Equipped with innovative technology and facilities, and premier healthcare professionals, Ascension Providence is a comprehensive healthcare network that provides Central Texans with compassionate, person-centered care throughout their lifetime.

Photo courtesy of Baylor Scott & White Medical CenterHillcrest

Photo courtesy of Ascension Providence

capabilities of a traditional, hospitalbased ER. Premier ER Plus offers urgent care at a lower cost to the patient for less severe problems. Premier ER Plus feels that offering both options allows its staff to provide quality care with a focus on saving the patient time and money. To find out more, visit PremierERplus.com or visit them at 9110 Jordan Lane in the Woodway area or at 221 N. Jack Kultgen Expressway in downtown Waco.

Doris Miller Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center

The Veterans Affairs Medical Center, in operation since 1932 in Waco, is a major referral facility for acute, intermediate and long-term psychiatric care for veterans. The facility is part of the Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, which also includes a hospital in Temple and outpatient clinics in Austin and five other communities. For more information, visit VA.gov/Central-Texas-Health-Care or call (254) 752-6581. 

RECREATION

Located in the Heart of Texas, Greater Waco and the surrounding communities enjoy great weather and wonderful recreational and sports venues.

PARKS AND RECREATION

PARKS AND RECREATION

Parks and Recreation

The City of Waco Parks and Recreation department provides residents with the chance to explore the great outdoors, enjoy an active life and join with neighbors at fun community events. The City maintains numerous neighborhood parks with playgrounds scattered throughout Waco, including five spray parks.

Hike and Bike Trails

With 15 miles of twisting trails, Cameron Park features an amazing, multi-use National Recreation Trail system. Hikers and bikers meander along the River Trail, zigzag up 100-foot bluffs to overlook the rivers, or rip down trails like Root Canal.

The Waco Riverwalk includes approximately seven miles of multi-use, lighted trail that loops along both banks of the Brazos River. The scenic riverwalk stretches from Baylor University to Cameron Park and passes underneath the Suspension Bridge.

The 2.8-mile hike and bike trail that the Army Corps of Engineers built across the Lake Waco Dam offers a beautiful view. The trail welcomes dogs on leashes and hosts hikers from one hour before sunrise until one hour before sunset.

Other Waco-area trails include the Lake Waco hiking trail and the paved Cottonbelt Trail, a 2.5-mile trail located atop an old rail line along Highway 84 and crosses the South Bosque River.

Lake Waco

Beautiful Lake Waco is an ideal fishing, boating and swimming venue within the city limits. With nearly 12 square miles of surface water, the lake is a popular year round recreational amenity.

Disc Golf

The City of Waco maintains disc golf courses at Cameron Park including a more challenging course at Cameron Park East. Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) events are held

throughout

restrooms. Visit HOTSoccer.net

information.

Tennis

Golf

Waco boasts several beautiful golf courses that give players the best value around. Numerous golf tournaments are held each year including the Chamber’s Allen Samuels Chamber Classic.

Soccer

The Heart of Texas Soccer Complex spreads across 28 acres leased from the Army Corps of Engineers. Children of all ages compete on its 23 fields located on Airport Park Road. Across the street, Airport Road hosts another 19 acres of fields that are leased by the Waco Soccer Association. The facility includes five adult fields, two parking lots and

The Waco Regional Tennis & Fitness Center, a state-of-the-art facility with 18 outdoor lighted hard courts, a 1,500-seat championship court and a pro shop, is located at 800 W. Lake Shore Drive. For more information, call (254) 753-7675 or visit WacoTennis.com.

Baseball/Softball

The Dubl-R Fields at Riverbend Ballpark are Waco’s premier softball and baseball facility, which sits on the Bosque River and features eight fields. The park fills with hundreds of players each weekend from youth baseball to adult softball tournaments.

the year. Woodway Park features a course with scenic lake views and Hewitt Park features an 18 hole course.

for more

Cameron Park is a fantastic system of trails used by mountain bikers, trail runners, hikers and walkers.

Golfers enjoy the annual Allen Samuels Chamber Classic

Photo by Jason Hagerup

Photo by Keith Kusler

Water Parks & Swimming Pools

Waco has a number of water attractions, including five spray parks located at Cameron Park, Kendrick Park, Chapel Park, Dewey Park and Mountainview Park. Hawaiian Falls is on Lake Shore Drive near the Waco Regional Tennis & Fitness Center. The park features two six-story slides, a wave pool and a lazy river winding through the trees.

The Playdium in West, just north of Waco, is fed by an artesian spring and entertains guests with a zip line, diving boards, volleyball and basketball and live music.

Waco Mammoth National Monument

The Waco Mammoth National Monument sits within 100+ acres of wooded parkland along the Bosque River, providing a glimpse into the lives of Columbian mammoths. The park is managed in partnership by the National Park Service, the City of Waco, and Baylor University. The public is welcome anytime during regular operating hours.

Photo by City of Waco / Mark Randolph

Photo by City of Waco / Mark Randolph

The Waco Mammoth National Monument is a paleontological site where fossils of 24 Columbian mammoths and other mammals have been uncovered.

Hawaiian Falls Waco covers an expansive 10 acres filled with exciting rides and aquatic adventures.

THE ARTS

Outdoor Music

Waco has several popular outdoor music venues, including Indian Spring Park, where the annual Brazos Nights concert series is held; the Bosque River Stage, a 530-seat amphitheater on the McLennan Community College campus; and The Backyard Bar Stage and Grill, where dozens of concerts are held each year on the big outdoor stage.

Indoor Music

The 8,000-seat Extraco Events Center, home of the Heart O’ Texas Fair and Rodeo, hosts special events and concerts during the nine-day Professional Rodeo Cowboys of America competition and throughout the year. Live music also is played in nightclubs and bars throughout the city. The Waco Symphony Orchestra brings world-class performances with a variety of worldrenowned soloists to Waco Hall from September through April.

Waco Cultural Arts Fest

This three-day festival showcases local artists, sculptors and photographers while treating visitors to live music and dancing representing a variety of cultures.

Performing Arts

The Waco Civic Theatre welcomes amateur thespians and provides training for the younger set at its Waco Children’s Theatre. The theatre’s unique design allows them to reconfigure the space to fit each production’s needs and regularly sells out shows.

Photo by City of Waco

Visual Arts

The Art Center Waco, which recently relocated to a downtown location at 701 S. Eighth St., provides a wide selection of traveling exhibits year round that feature photographers, painters, pottery artists and more. They also host children and adult art classes.

For the past 30 years, the Martin Museum of Art has provided traveling treasures and permanent art exhibits. Their permanent collection consists of 1,300 objects and represents a wide variety of art, which includes 300 paintings. The Martin Museum of Art is located in the Hooper-Schaefer Fine Arts Center at Baylor University. 

CREATIVEWACO.ORG

Creative Waco is a nonprofit organization with a vision to grow and support a thriving cultural and creative community in Waco. Creative Waco’s focus is on bringing Waco’s arts professionals together and providing new resources and opportunities to Waco’s arts organizations. Through the organization’s efforts, Waco has been officially designated as a Cultural District by Texas Commission on the Arts.

Photo by Martin Museum of Art

PLACES TO SEE

Cameron Park Zoo

Cameron Park Zoo is a 52-acre natural habitat zoo located in Cameron Park next to the Brazos River. The zoo has lush native vegetation that surrounds splashing waterfalls, a picturesque lake and ponds. And in the midst of all this beauty, visitors see that the wild ones not only survive in their natural habitat, they flourish. The zoo features more than 1,731 animals, representing 300 species from around the world.

The Cameron Park Zoo features species from North and South America, Africa, Asia and Europe. Including a large reptile house, an African lion display, and Lemur Island, a large open lemur habitat. The Brazos River Country area features a saltwater reef aquarium, a large swampland habitat, and many other native Texas type habitats.

Cameron Park Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

Dr Pepper Museum and Free Enterprise Institute

The Dr Pepper Museum & Free Enterprise Institute is a nonprofit organization that tells the story of the soft drink industry in the historic home of Dr Pepper. Catch a Liquid Lab show and visit the Gift Shop and Soda Fountain. Paid admission tickets come with a 10-ounce handmade fountain drink. The Museum is at 300 5th Street.

Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum

The legendary Texas Rangers are the oldest state law enforcement agency. The official Texas Ranger Hall of Fame & Museum is located off Interstate 35.

Visitors learn about the history of the Texas Rangers through exhibits, which include badges, firearms, photographs and other artifacts on display. The Texas Rangers, with their cowboy hats and silver stars on their shirt pockets, remain an important part of our heritage. Take a closer look at how the Texas Rangers have crushed crime since 1823.

Texas Sports Hall of Fame

Texas athletes who have made their mark both on and off the field are honored at the Texas Sports Hall of Fame. Clips of sports moments in Texas history are shown in the Tom Landry Theater. The complex also houses the Texas Tennis Museum and Hall of Fame. The Texas Sports Hall of Fame is at 1108 S. University Parks Drive.

Mayborn Museum Complex

Located on the Baylor University campus, the Mayborn Museum Complex features a natural science and cultural history museum focusing on Central Texas with walk-in dioramas including one on the Waco Mammoth Site, and exploration stations for geology, paleontology, archaeology and natural history. In addition, themed discovery rooms encourage hands-on learning for all ages.

Waco-McLennan County Library

The Waco-McLennan County Library has four locations throughout Waco and offers numerous programs for researchers, genealogists, adults, teens and children. The library provides computer access, downloadable e-books, tutoring for students in

The library also partners with the Hewitt Community Library, Mart’s Nancy Nail Memorial Library, McGregor’s McGinley Library and West Public Library. Materials borrowed at these libraries may be returned at the Waco-McLennan County Library or viceversa. Residents in McLennan county can get access to the library’s 250,000 books, movies and more through these partnerships. 

WACO-MCLENNAN COUNTY LIBRARY SYSTEM

Central Library

1717 Austin Ave. • (254) 750-5941

East Waco Library 901 Elm Ave. • (254) 750-8620

West Waco Library & Genealogy Center 5301 Bosque Ave. • (254) 745-6018

South Waco Library 2737 S.18th St. • (254) 750-8621

WacoLibrary.org

kindergarten through eighth grade and an interlibrary loan program to residents in Waco for free.

Photo by City of Waco / Mark Randolph

With natural habitats and close-up encounters, the animal collection housed at Cameron Park Zoo includes more than 1,731 animals, representing 300 species.

SHOPPING & DINING

Shopping in Greater Waco can be a one-day splurge, a hunt for hidden gems at antique shops or a weekend excursion. There are shopping options at virtually every turn, but we wanted to share a few of our favorite places.

Central Texas Marketplace

The bustling Central Texas Marketplace features fashion retailers, home furnishing shops and a variety of dining opportunities at Interstate 35 and Highway 6.

Richland Mall

For a traditional indoor mall, check out the Richland Mall at the intersection of Highway 6 and Highway 84. This 720,000-square-foot venue is a one-stop indoor shopping experience.

River Square Center

River Square Center is located in a former warehouse district and offers home décor, furniture and the latest fashions for children, teens and adults at Spice Village which features more

than 80 different shops under one roof.

Magnolia Market at the Silos

This homegrown boutique features hand-selected home products by Chip and Joanna Gaines, from the hit show Fixer Upper. From jewelry to

handbags and apparel to home goods, the Market has it all. And when you’re done shopping, hang out in their food truck court, wander around their outdoor garden or explore the shops throughout Downtown Waco. 

Photo courtesy of Richland Mall

Richland Mall, the largest enclosed retail center between Dallas and Austin with stores like H&M, Francesca’s, Victoria’s Secret and Zale’s.

The Heart of Texas is known for it’s worldclass barbecue and steaks, but Waco’s food scene has more than 250 dining options including American, Asian, Italian, Mediterranean, Mexican, Tex-Mex, barbecue, steaks and seafood, coffeehouses and more to satisfy your appetite.

Whether it’s a quick bite to eat from a local food truck or a sit-down-and-relax dining experience you are looking for, Waco has something to offer throughout the city for all palates and budgets. Greater Waco’s dining scene is always growing and thriving, with new restaurants and flavors to try!

For a complete list of the many wonderful member restaurants, view the member directory at the back of this book or visit WacoChamber.com/Directory. 

SCHMALTZ’S SANDWICH SHOPPE

POPPA ROLLO’S PIZZA

LA FIESTA RESTAURANT & CANTINA

GEORGE’S RESTAURANT & BAR

FLAVORS

Hour Economy provides a quarterly overview of the economic index and recently announced projects followed by a guest speaker discussing topics like emerging economic trends and developments in Waco. WacoChamber.com/Events

At Technology Business Briefing, attendees learn about regional and national tech-driven innovation.

Hosted quarterly, this program features experts highlighting new technological advances.

WacoChamber.com/Events

RELOCATING

Welcome to the Heart of Texas! Now that you’ve chosen to make Waco your home, there are a few basics about relocating here. Whether updating your Texas driver’s license or choosing an energy provider, we have you covered. For starters, you may be interested to know that residential consumers in Texas have the power to choose their electric service provider. For your convenience, we have included the contact information needed to help you get settled for area businesses, utilities and more.

City and County Government

Waco is the central location for government for the city and McLennan County. Waco operates under the council-city manager form of government led by a mayor and five district representatives. The Council sets goals and advocates policy decisions such as tax rates, capital improvements and city ordinances. More than 250 citizens serve on city boards and commissions.

The Greater Waco Chamber works closely with the City’s Economic Development Services to synchronize incentives with the needs of prospective employers. The City’s Planning Services Department oversees long-range plans for healthy growth throughout Waco.

McLennan County

The Commissioners Court and county judge maintain daily government operations for the county. The commissioners set the county budget with separate road and bridge budgets for each of the precincts. The court oversees the maintenance on bridges, roads, facilities and jails throughout the county.

The historic McLennan County Courthouse is a grand structure at Sixth Street and Washington Avenue. The four-story Renaissance Revivalstyle structure reflects the growth and prosperity of Waco at the turn of the century and is considered to be one of the finest examples in the state of the classical revival style. The courthouse has been altered over the years with balconies overlooking the 19th and 54th District Courts being enclosed to make room for a law library and the ornate grand jury room. The balcony over the 74th District Court was closed

to make room for the 10th Court of Appeals, which was created in 1923.

The McLennan County courthouse also is home to the 170th and 414th District Courts, the 10th Court of Appeals and two county courts-at-law. 

POLICE & FIRE

Police & Fire

Fire

The Waco Fire Department responds to more than 18,000 calls per year including emergency calls for structure, vehicle and grass fires, water rescues and medical calls, as well as nonemergency calls.

Call 911 to report an emergency. Call (254) 750-1740 to reach administrative personnel.

City Police

The Waco Police Department responds to more than 100,000 calls annually.

Call 911 to report an emergency. Call (254) 750-7500 to reach administrative personnel.

Sheriff’s Department

The McLennan County Sheriff’s Office responds to calls in the non-municipality areas of the county.

Call 911 to report an emergency. Call (254) 757-5095 to reach administrative personnel. 

UTILITIES

Telephone Service

Service providers are deregulated. Fiber optics and high-capacity digital are available.

Local Providers:

• AT&T

Residential: (800) 464-7928 Business: (800) 499-7928 • ATT.com

• Astound Broadband (512) 878-4600 • Astound.com

• Spectrum (254) 776-1141 • Spectrum.com

Electricity Service Service providers are deregulated in Texas. For more information on competition among energy companies in Texas, call (866) 797-4839 or visit PowerToChoose.org.

Natural Gas Service

Natural gas is regulated by the Texas Railroad Commission, and rates are regulated by the cities. In Waco and many of the surrounding areas, the franchisee is ATMOS Energy, the nation’s largest natural gas utility. For more information, visit: RRC.State.TX.US

• ATMOS Energy (800) 621-1867 • AtmosEnergy.com

Cable Service

Providers in Waco are Spectrum and Astound Broadband.

Trash Collection

Waco’s Solid Waste Services provides trash collection for residential and commercial customers. Wheeled containers hold 30, 65 or 90 gallons. The city also offers 35-gallon green carts for yard waste only. Blue carts collect paper for recycling.

Waco is a proud member of Clean Texas, a program of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

The City of Waco is committed to promoting pollution prevention and reducing solid waste disposal.

Pet Requirements

In Texas, all dogs and cats must be vaccinated against rabies by the time they are four months old and receive a booster one year after the initial vaccination. In addition to statemandated rabies vaccinations, owned dogs and cats must be spayed/neutered and microchipped. Exceptions to the spay/neuter ordinance are available for pets with medical health issues and breeders, but breeder pets must still be microchipped and have veterinarianissued health statements issued at least once every two years with the microchip number. 

AUTOMOBILES

Automobiles

Texas Driver’s License

Newcomers to Texas must register vehicles within 30 days of becoming a resident and then obtain a Texas Driver’s License. In McLennan County, this also requires proof of Texas insurance. When having a vehicle inspected at a state

Photo by Mark Randolph / City of Waco

Photo by Jason Hagerup

The McLennan County courthouse has stood majestic in downtown Waco for more than 100 years.

The Waco Fire Department responds to well over 9,400 calls and incidents per year.

inspection station, make sure you receive a VI-30A certificate. The identification certificate and your out-of-state-title or current registration receipt from out-ofstate are needed during the registration process.

In addition to bringing cash, the owner of the out-of-state vehicle title should also be present so they can sign an application for a Texas title. For details on anticipated cost and other materials needed when registering an out-of-state vehicle in McLennan County, visit Co.McLennan.TX.US.

Vehicle Registration

An annual registration sticker is provided to Texas drivers when their registration is renewed. Vehicle registration must be renewed every 12 months by mail, in person or online. Whether picking up the sticker in person or receiving it by mail, the sticker must be displayed in the lower left-hand corner of the front windshield.

Vehicle registrations help pave the way for maintaining local highways, roads and bridges, so your sticker goes a long way to helping McLennan County road systems. Visit RegisteredTexan.com or TxDMV.gov for more information. 

AIRPORT

The Waco Regional Airport is a valuable asset to local businesses and residents alike. The airport is critical to air travel for the Central Texas region and offers convenience to travelers connecting to the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. Passengers are able to avoid the stress of driving more than an hour to airports

located at DFW, Austin or Killeen. Travelers are also often pleasantly surprised to find that the Waco Regional Airport features free parking near the Madison Cooper Terminal building, as well as short term, long term and 30-minute loading and unloading times.

If ground transportation is needed, the Waco Regional Airport offers car rental, limousine services and rideshare services. For more information, visit FlyWacoRegional.com. 

Photo by Mark Randolph / City of Waco

The Waco Regional Airport provides quick transport to the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport and provides free overnight parking, easy access and short security lines.

WACO AT A GLANCE

DISTANCE TO...

Austin: 90 miles

Dallas: 90 miles

Fort Worth: 90 miles

AREA

Waco: 95.3 square miles

McLennan County: 1,041.9 sq. miles

CLIMATE

• Sub-tropical

• Average annual temperature: 66.7 degrees

• Average minimum temperature: 34.2 degrees (Jan.)

• Average maximum temperature: 96.8 degrees (July)

• Average annual rainfall: 32 inches

GEOLOGY

McLennan County sits on the Grand Prairie where the White Rock formation meets the Blackland Prairie.

POPULATION

• City of Waco: 139,594

• Waco MSA: 280,428

• 7-county Region: 821,370

EMPLOYMENT

• MSA Labor Force: 130,992 (Sept. 2022)

• Unemployment rate: 3.4% (Sept. 2022)

GOVERNMENT

• Waco is a home rule city with a council manager form of government.

• McLennan County has 19 incorporated cities, including Waco.

PUBLIC SERVICES

• Fire: (City of Waco) ISO rating 1 13 fire stations 211 firefighters

• Police: (City of Waco) 214 officers

• Sheriff: (McLennan County) 258 peace officers and jailers

UTILITIES

• Telephone: fiber optics, high capacity digital available

• Electricity: Visit PowertoChoose.com

• Natural Gas: ATMOS Energy

• Water: Source - Lake Waco, Provider - City of Waco

• Sewer: Waco Metropolitan Area Regional Sewer System

EDUCATION

• 20 school districts (public, private and charter) in McLennan County

• Baylor University: 20,709 students

• McLennan Community College: 7,742 students

• Texas State Technical College Waco: 4,252 students

• Tarleton State University - Waco: 983 students

• Texas Tech University at Waco: 280 students

COST OF LIVING (THIRD QUARTER 2021) Composite Index: 90.9 (U.S. Average:100)

COST OF A NEW HOME $365,660 (Average in Sept. 2022) TRANSPORTATION

• Railroads: Union Pacific, Burlington Northern / Santa Fe, Amtrak

• Buses: Waco Transit System, Greyhound Bus Lines, Waco Eagle/The Streak shuttle service

• Highways: Interstate-35, U.S. Hwys 77 & 84, State Hwys 6, 31,164 & 317

• Air: Waco Regional Airport (American), TSTC Industrial Airport, McGregor Executive Airport

HEALTH CARE

• Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Hillcrest

• Ascension Providence

• Scott & White Clinics

• Family Health Center

• Department of Veteran Affairs

ARTS - CREATIVEWACO.ORG

• By the numbers: 3 movie theaters, 14 museums, 3 outdoor amphitheaters

• Baylor University Theatre and McLennan Community College Theatre

• Historic Waco Foundation: Four historic houses serve to preserve Waco’s heritage and history

• Waco Symphony Orchestra, Waco Civic Theatre

• Museums: Texas Sports Hall of Fame, Mayborn Museum Complex, Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum and Dr Pepper Museum and more

RECREATION

• By the numbers: 2 country clubs, 10 health centers, 3 marinas, 5 recreation centers, 12 golf courses, 36 tennis courts

• Big XII/NCAA Sporting Events

• Cameron Park: 416 acres, hiking, biking and disc golf

• Cameron Park Zoo

• More than 60 parks (1,400 acres) in the community

• Lake Waco, Brazos and Bosque Rivers

• Waco ISD Athletic Complex

• Softball and Little League field

• Hawaiian Falls Water Park

• Waco Mammoth National Monument

STAY CONNECTED THROUGH CHAMBER EVENTS

Mid-Year Luncheon

1,000 Friends of Waco Be in the know about what’s coming next for Waco and share your ideas and upcoming events during this roundtable meeting.

Allen Samuels Chamber Classic

Players enjoy a day at Cottonwood Creek Golf Course for team competition, great food and prizes at this annual golf tournament.

Business PowerHour

Each month, we offer valuable business development resources and programs to maximize your professional growth.

Find Your Waco

Connect with our city! This is an opportunity to explore careers offered by our local employers, interest groups, social scenes, activities and local flavors.

Hour Economy

Each quarter, this event provides a brief overview of the economic index and recently announced projects. We also invite different guest speakers to present on relevant subjects including emerging economic trends and new developments in our community.

Leading Waco Women series

This two-part leadership summit series provides professional development and networking opportunities for women and men of Waco’s business community.

MidTex Farm & Ranch Show

The MidTex Farm & Ranch Show in partnership with Blackland Income Grouwh (BIG) is held at the Base at Extraco Events Center. Admission is free. View top exhibits of the newest farm & ranch equipment and ag related products.

The membership gathers mid-year to get a “state-of-the-Chamber” report on breakthrough initiatives and other goals constantly in progress.

Networking Forum

Each month, we host Networking Forum at various business locations. Attendees are encouraged to build relationships that can ultimately lead to productive referrals and strong contacts.

TriWaco Triathlon

Located in the scenic Indian Spring Park, over 900 athletes compete in TriWaco, a USA Triathlon-sanctioned Olympic and sprint distance event. Visit TriWaco.org for more information.

Sports Luncheon Series

The State Of Series

The State Of Series is a series of annual events designed to engage elected officials from the city, county, state and federal levels and inform our membership and the community about a variety of topics, including current political happenings, current affairs and issues that impact our business community.

Waco Under 40

This event celebrates young leaders who have distinguished themselves in their careers and in the community. The event features an award presentation for honorees, networking and availability for a meet and greet with all nominees past and present. Nominations are conducted online in the spring.

For over 30 years, the Greater Waco Chamber has hosted luncheons to excite the community for upcoming sports seasons. The three-part Series is held annually to help rally the community behind collegiate baseball/softball, college and high school football and college basketball. Plug into the Chamber and

WacoChamber.com

GREATER WACO CHAMBER

MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY