Looking Forward
The City Council ’ s five strategic priorities , Champion Great Neighborhoods , Enhance Regional Mobility , Invest in Our Economy , Put Technology to Work and Support Quality Education , remained unchanged for fiscal year 2017 . Arlington has made much progress over the past several years in these areas of strategic focus , but there is still work to be done .
As in previous years , significant investments are planned for Public Safety and Information Technology in 2017 . The implementation of the body-worn camera program is planned , as an investment in our community and Police Department by increasing the legitimacy and transparency around law enforcement services . Managing and maintaining the organization ’ s key software and applications are never-ending efforts ; key IT projects include a Microsoft Office Upgrade , software maintenance and numerous department technology projects .
Great neighborhoods contribute to a higher quality of life and greater investment in our economy . In 2017 , Code Compliance will continue to focus on code violations in east Arlington by proactively addressing violations and increasing outreach to the community . Community Development and Planning has once again implemented the popular Neighborhood Matching Grant Program . The goal of the program is to provide financial support for residentand community-based programs and activities that foster civic pride , enhance and beautify neighborhoods , and improve neighborhood vitality and participation . The program benefits Arlington by making neighborhoods more attractive , increasing residents ’ civic participation , and encouraging collaboration among neighbors , neighborhoods and City government .
Given that our community is largely built out , the City plays an integral role in advancing efforts to redevelop aging properties , as well as directing infrastructure repairs and replacement that will contribute to its sustained economic health and revitalization . Redevelopment of the Downtown core , with the construction of the new Downtown Library and the public / private 101 Center development , remains a key focus in 2017 .
Arlington recognizes the importance of providing adequate roadway , bicycle and pedestrian ,
and aviation infrastructure to ensure residents and visitors can travel safely and efficiently . Metro Arlington Xpress transportation service will continue offering access between Arlington and the rest of the North Texas region . Several large regional transportation projects , including the I-30 / SH 360 Interchange and the Center Street Bridge over I-20 , will also continue into 2017 .
A successful community requires a variety of support systems and an environment that enables educational opportunities to flourish . The Library continues to grow its collection to support the needs of the community and more specifically , its youngest users . New for 2017 , the Library will also provide a pathway of programs and resources for teens and adults that contribute to the academic and economic vitality of Arlington by supporting college exploration , career and workforce skills development , and small business . The Police and Fire departments will also continue hometown recruiting programs and the AISD Fire Academy in 2017 . By providing job-based vocational training , these programs support the community ’ s youth and strengthen future candidate pools .
Looking forward to fiscal year 2017 and beyond , the City of Arlington is poised to achieve great things , to realize the goal of being a live , learn , work and play city – a true American Dream City .
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