Subject to the caution posted below, that no one can see the future, all indications are that Garland has a bright and immediate future. We have some current budget challenges but who doesn't? A step back every now and then is healthy. It gives a moment to reflect and redirect.
 

For north Garland, the extension of SH-190 to I-30 is economic opportunity. There will be significant levels of investment in our area over the next several years. Retailers are moving slowly to build new stores nationwide but that should match the pace of our growth. We don't want supply to out-step demand because we would suffer economically. Many new homes and residences will be constructed in the next five to ten years in Garland, Sachse, Murphy, Rowlett, and Wylie that will use SH-190 and will have easy access to our retailers.
 
Funds from NTTA will be available to support roadway projects we cannot now afford but that we need.
 
Many of the ordinances and zoning rules have become archaic and hamper development but all are being rewritten and could easily be in place within a year. To have a more sustainable tax base and to afford the quality of life services we all want, we have to Grow the City.
 
We will become more urban. Rising energy prices and a swelling population give Garland an incredible opportunity to grow as more people settle closer to employment centers and transit, and as exurbanites return.
 
We have three major hotels under construction or about to start construction: the Hyatt Place near the GISD Special Events Center, a full-service Holiday Inn near the Texas Roadhouse, and another H-Holiday Inn near Bass Pro. Garland will supply hotel rooms for events and meetings, a first! There will be motel/hotel tax available to help market Garland and to fund events that draw tourism.
 
Garland has wisely followed the vision set in place over fifteen years ago to have high development standards for north Garland and to reserve precious land for job centers. Much of that land is still undeveloped but watching the process of new businesses move east along SH-190 means they will be here if we are patient and keep our vision. The extension again gives greater assurance that new development will closely follow the extended access to the east. Both sides of the turnpike will have traffic as those east of us "cut through" to the airport and the rest of the Metroplex. The future construction on I-635 only boosts north Garland.
 
The Rail North Texas project has earmarked transit from Downtown to Wylie and Lavon. It will be possible to catch a train in north Garland and ride to the airport or to the Fort Worth zoo, or even to Cleburne.
 
Garland businesses are hurting for qualified employees. The new community college campus Downtown will help train new employees to replace those retiring. Those new employees will need places to live, shop, and play.
 
The community college is only part of the Downtown picture. Current construction plans approach $60 million. New apartments and shopping is being built now. Some new investment around the square and other Downtown areas have popped up. Try the new Ventoni's restaurant!
 
I've only scratched the surface of the new Garland.
 
It's bright! Better grab your shades.