Vision SMTX Comprehensive Plan

OUR VISION FOR EQUITABLE AND COMPATIBLE GROWTH

Using values articulated by the community throughout the early part of the planning process, a vision statement was drafted for San Marcos looking out to 2050. The community vision was created to help inform the guiding principles, goals, actions, area plans, and other recommendations included in this Plan. The vision statement describes how the community pictures their city in the future and establishes the basis for the Preferred Growth Scenario and associated Place Types. The Vision SMTX Comprehensive Plan builds on the past while considering future needs to create a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive city comprising complete neighborhoods that provide equitable and people-focused development and amenities for the community. The plan develops polices which work to create and extend opportunities to each member of the community. It also acknowledges inequities when they exist and provides policies and new approaches to planning that fully embrace equity. Equity is the understanding that the community faces different challenges when it comes to access to opportunities, resources, and investments. Differences in access impact the ability to benefit from the physical, financial, environmental, social, and cultural aspects of the community. As San Marcos continues to grow, this Plan promotes being intentional about providing equitable access to jobs, housing, transportation, goods and services, and other opportunities so that all benefit from future growth and can all be part of our thriving community. Vision SMTX seeks to create more equity in our city by using an “equity lens” to view, frame, and consider important topics, but also to guide equitable growth. Equitable growth means being fair about what’s built or added in different parts of the city, and being thoughtful about why it’s being added and who will benefit. Adapting policies and actions based on those differences to respond to the unique needs of our community can create more inclusive access and have fair treatment for all parts of a community. As demonstrated in the vision statement, this thriving city nurtures the innovation and technology economy that blossomed over the past decade while facilitating equitable growth opportunities that promote diversity and preserve the genuine character of San Marcos. In addition, the San Marcos River is an important community amenity and natural asset in the City. Responsible growth that minimizes environmental impacts to the river and other natural resources is fundamental to keeping San Marcos a thriving and sustainable community that all can enjoy.

“Life Lessons” mural by George Lundeen, Children’s Park, 205 S CM Allen Parkway

SAN MARCOS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2024

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