The City of Irving’s achievements in 2024 reflect a year of exceptional growth, enhanced infrastructure, and deepened community engagement. From reinvestments in the Toyota Music Factory to improvements in public safety and sustainability, the city's progress in 2024 highlights its commitment to innovation, economic vitality, and the well-being of its residents.
Economic Growth and Strategic Investments
Irving’s economic development efforts in 2024 continued to build on its robust foundation, with the approval of five incentive agreements designed to foster job creation and capital investment. These agreements are expected to generate 294 new jobs, retain 850 existing positions, and spur $178 million in capital investment across 1.4 million square feet of commercial space.
One of the standout investments was the $35 million reinvestment in the Toyota Music Factory, aimed at supporting the venue’s growth and enhancing the local entertainment scene. Additionally, the city awarded over $1.5 million in grants to 78 small businesses, helping them access financial and technical assistance to fuel their growth. The city also provided $310,000 to 29 businesses for recovery and resiliency efforts, reinforcing its commitment to a vibrant local economy.
Infrastructure Improvements and Capital Projects
Irving made substantial progress in its infrastructure development, with several key projects completed in 2024. These included the full reconstruction and enhancement of Irving Boulevard, a major arterial road, and the completion of the Central Fire Station and Fire Station No. 8. The city also made notable advancements on the Campion Trail, finishing the construction of its center section, which enhances outdoor recreation options for residents.
A major water and wastewater project, the Cottonwood Hackberry Interceptor, was completed, increasing capacity to support the city’s growth. The city also made significant investments in local parks and recreation facilities, including Southwest Park, Keeler Park, Fritz Park, and the improvement of cricket field operations. Enhancements were made to Georgia Farrow, Lively Pointe, and Senter Park recreation centers, while the design for new community centers like the Mustang Park Multi-Generational Community Recreation and Aquatics Center began.
The city’s “Road to the Future” Summer Overlay Program continued to make strides, with 28 roads—totaling 9.36 miles—upgraded in 2024, improving traffic flow and safety throughout the city.
Community Engagement and Support Programs
Irving demonstrated a strong commitment to its residents by offering a variety of community programs and support services. Over 5,000 programs and classes were offered, providing learning, recreational, and cultural opportunities for residents. The Irving Police Department participated in 182 community engagement events, while the Fire Department held 216 public education classes, strengthening the connection between first responders and the community.
The city also supported its most vulnerable populations by providing over 77,000 free meals to children and seniors. The launch of Camp Hope, a week-long camping adventure for children who have experienced trauma, underscored the city’s dedication to mental health and well-being. Additionally, 15 homeless households were rapidly rehoused through rental assistance, and the city assisted nine households with emergency home repairs.
Sustainability and Financial Stewardship
In 2024, Irving continued its focus on sustainability and financial responsibility. The city passed a structurally balanced budget, maintaining the current tax rate, while issuing $121 million in General Obligation Bonds to finance vital capital projects. These investments support ongoing improvements to the city’s infrastructure, public safety, and community services.
Expansion efforts in the city’s digital infrastructure included the deployment of outdoor Wi-Fi, security cameras, and enhanced wireless access points at multiple city facilities. Additionally, the city focused on improving cybersecurity and replaced outdated audio/visual equipment in libraries to better serve patrons.
The city’s recruitment efforts paid off with a 362% increase in test-takers for the Fire Department and a 133% increase in Police Department applicants. This helped meet the demand for public safety professionals while maintaining high levels of service. Efforts also included an overhaul of 60,000 water service lines in compliance with the EPA’s new Lead and Copper Rule revisions.
Public Safety and Crime Reduction
Irving’s public safety initiatives focused on crime reduction, emergency response, and environmental protection. In 2024, the city reduced property crime by 6% for the second consecutive year. A major factor in this success was the launch of the Real-Time Crime Center, allowing officers to respond quickly to crime incidents.
The city also focused on weather preparedness, installing 11 weather stations to enhance monitoring and improve responses to weather-related events. The Irving Fire Department responded to 7,083 calls for service, and the city’s EMS responded to 18,569 calls.
In terms of community beautification, over 7,800 volunteers contributed nearly 10,000 hours of service, collecting 18,275 pounds of trash and 6,779 pounds of recyclables. Irving’s focus on cleanliness and environmental stewardship helped maintain the city's aesthetic appeal while supporting sustainability.
Recognitions and Awards
Irving’s accomplishments in 2024 were recognized through a variety of prestigious awards. The City Secretary’s Office received the Excellence Award for Municipal Clerks, while the Irving Convention Center & Visitors Bureau was honored with 11 Adrian Awards for excellence in hospitality sales and marketing. The city’s fleet was recognized as one of the Top 50 Leading Fleets and received the Clean Cities Silver Award for the seventh consecutive year.
Additionally, the Irving Convention Center & Visitors Bureau earned two Silver Davey Awards, and the city’s community television network won 44 awards in video and broadcast production. The city also maintained its commitment to transparency, receiving the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the 40th consecutive year.
Irving’s environmental and sustainability efforts were recognized with several awards, including the Environmental Excellence Award from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the Gold Star Award from Keep Texas Beautiful.
