Brownwood Seeks Bids for Three Downtown Projects That Could Reshape Baker, Fisk and Anderson Streets

Downtown Brownwood is moving toward a major construction phase as the city seeks competitive bids for three projects designed to improve streets, public gathering spaces, pedestrian connections and the Brownwood Event Center Complex.

The Downtown Streetscaping, Founders Crossing, and Silo Promenade & Courtyards projects are part of Phase I of the city’s Downtown Master Plan. The Brownwood City Council adopted that plan in 2024, and the city has since worked with engineering firm Freese and Nichols on engineering and final design. With design work complete, the projects are now entering the competitive bidding process.

Construction is anticipated to begin during the first quarter of 2027. The improvements are expected to be completed in phases over approximately 18 to 24 months, although the city has not yet announced a detailed construction schedule for individual streets or project areas.

What the three projects would add downtown

Downtown Streetscaping

The Downtown Streetscaping project would reconstruct and enhance portions of Baker, Fisk and Anderson streets. Planned work includes upgraded sidewalks, decorative paving, underground utilities, lighting and landscaping.

The project also calls for approximately 60 additional parking spaces. City officials say the improvements are intended to create a more accessible and pedestrian-friendly environment while strengthening connections between downtown businesses and major destinations, including the Brownwood Coliseum and Brownwood Event Center Complex.

Founders Crossing

Founders Crossing is planned for an existing property along the 400 block of Fisk Street. The site would become a public gathering space focused on Brownwood’s history and community activities.

Plans include a rail-inspired pavilion, flexible event lawn, public art walk, landscaping, shaded seating and space for small performances, food trucks and community events. The property is being donated to the city by TexasBank, a public-private partnership the city says will support the downtown revitalization effort.

Once complete, Founders Crossing is expected to serve as a family-friendly destination that complements nearby businesses and adds another activity area to the downtown district.

Silo Promenade & Courtyards

The Silo Promenade & Courtyards project would expand the Brownwood Event Center Complex and improve the area around the historic silos. The design includes two new courtyards, a pedestrian promenade, additional restrooms, vendor spaces, shaded seating and landscaping.

A two-story patio and viewing area would overlook the Event Center stage, creating additional space for concerts, festivals and private events. Architectural uplighting would highlight the historic silos at night, making them a more prominent downtown landmark and adding to the visitor experience.

Bids, meeting and expected next steps

The city will accept competitive sealed bids for the three projects through November 20, 2026, at 2 p.m. Each project will be bid separately, allowing contractors to submit proposals for one project, two projects or all three.

A mandatory pre-bid meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at 10 a.m. in the Brownwood City Hall Council Chambers, 501 Center Avenue. Bid documents, construction plans and additional information are available through Civcast under Project ID BWD25008.

After bids are opened, city staff will evaluate the proposals and present recommendations to the Brownwood City Council for consideration. The city says the separate bidding structure will provide flexibility in reviewing prices and maximizing available funding.

Because construction will affect downtown streets, businesses and visitors, the city says it will coordinate with downtown business and property owners, communicate project timelines and work to minimize disruptions. Project information and construction updates are expected to be posted at btxgov.info/downtownplan.

Businesses and developers interested in downtown opportunities can contact the Brownwood Municipal Development District at 325-646-9600 or [email protected].

Mayor Stephen Haynes described the three projects as part of a larger effort to connect downtown destinations, support businesses and create new spaces for residents and visitors. The city says the combined investment is intended to build on private-sector activity and the growth of the Brownwood Event Center Complex while preserving downtown’s historic character.