A Place for Big Ideas: A City of Innovation and Opportunity

Mayor Bob Dubey and the Richardson City Council presented the City’s annual State of the City Address Jan. 29 at the Eisemann Center.

The Address focused on ways Richardson was the home of “big ideas” by looking at four specific areas: the City’s response to the May 28 storm, the cybersecurity incident that affected the city in September, the ongoing momentum created by the City’s economic development efforts, and Richardson’s continued investment in infrastructure and services. 

“This year’s theme, ‘Big Ideas,’ captures our legacy as a hub of ingenuity,” said Mayor Bob Dubey. “From our pioneering days during the Space Race, to our role today as a leader in advanced research, technology and innovation. We remain a city that dreams big and delivers results.”

Storm Response and Community Resilience

The May 28 severe weather event brought hurricane-force winds and significant damage to Richardson and neighboring areas. Richardson's rapid, coordinated response involved all City departments and external partners, such as The Network of Community Ministries, Salvation Army, and Oncor.

Highlights of the response included:

• Storm Debris removal was completed in under two months thanks to pre-established plans with haulers and assistance from regional crews.
• The Richardson Replants program launched and provided 500 trees to residents to restore the city's tree canopy, with plants to distribute another 500 trees in 2025.
• More than 5,400 meals and essential supplies were provided to families severely impacted by the storm. 

Cybersecurity Excellence

Richardson's resilience and preparedness was evident in its swift mitigation of a cybersecurity attack on Sept. 25, 2024. Thanks to proactive IT investments and quick action by on-site IT teams, the attack caused minimal disruption. With more than $5 million allocated for technology upgrades, the City continues to prioritize digital infrastructure and cyber security.

Significant Achievements in 2024

• Over $225 million in new capital investment since 2024 for economic development and related projects
• Creation of the Community Inclusion and Engagement Commission and the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee. 
• Richardson Replants Program distributed 500 trees to residents impacted by the May severe weather event.
• City Council approved the Envision Richardson Comprehensive Plan Update, Solid Waste master Plan, and Aquatics Master Plan.
• $375,000 awarded in grants to more than 20 arts organizations.
• Richardson Research Award Match Program (RAMP) launched to provide financial assistance to startups.
• Startup Runway partnership agreement provides direct pipeline to international businesses looking to launch North American operations.

Budget and Community Initiatives

Focus Areas for 2025: Infrastructure | Economic Development | Public Safety | Employee Recruitment and Retention

Investment in Infrastructure and Services

• Construction of a new City Hall
• Renovation of the Richardson Public Library
• Significant road improvements
• Upgrades to water utility systems
• Introduction of new public art installations
• Sherrill Park Golf Course will host a future Titleist Fitting Center - the only facility of its kind in North Texas and the first in the nation to be located at a public golf course.

Additional Infrastructure Achievements

• Upgraded safety equipment and advanced technologies for both police and fire departments.
• Launch of the Aquatics Master Plan, addressing ageing infrastructure and proposing modern aquatic amenities
• Completion of several Bond and General Fund projects, including park developments, alley renovations, sidewalk replacements and street repairs.

Economic Development Momentum

Richardson's economy witnessed notable wins that reflect its strategic focus on advanced technology, research, and business attraction and retention. These included the addition of headquarter relocations, expansion of local businesses and activities in signature areas like the Richardson Innovation Quarter (The IQ) and The CORE District, and support provided to boost startups in advanced sectors.

Among notable Projects mentioned were:

• Associa relocated its corporate headquarters to Richardson, retaining and creating up to 1,000 jobs and significant property investments.
• Engineering leader Halff expanded its presence in Richardson.
• Micron Technology will be investing approximately $30 million, bringing approximately 250 high-paying jobs to Richardson's Innovation Quarter (The IQ).
• Collaborations with UT Dallas continue to foster groundbreaking projects, including a 5G testing lab funded through the federal CHIPS Act. 
• Startup Runway, a new partnership initiative, works to start North American operations. 

The City has attracted over $225 million in new capital investments for Economic Development and Related projects in 2024.

Health and Public Safety

 
Education

 
Arts and Leisure