Dickinson is slated to be home for a development that will feature a market, outdoor public gathering area, splash pad and small, locally owned businesses.
“Dickinson was ground zero for the devastating impacts of Hurricane Harvey. As part of our community recovery efforts, and in an effort to revitalize the region, the Dickinson Economic Development Corporation (DEDC) is excited to announce its creation of the “Gulf Coast Public Market” in the heart of Dickinson. The Gulf Coast Public Market will harness the entrepreneurial spirit of Texan residents by creating scores of new private businesses focused on the sale of fresh and prepared foods, as well as, Texan arts and crafts. The Market project will also provide a unique venue for local “Texan” and ethnic eating experiences and nightly and weekly entertainment. The Market will be tied to the Bayou by a meandering landscaped path adjoined by exciting amenities attractive to children, teens and families. In addition to approximately 40,000 square feet of new retail space, the Market will include a variety of new public amenities such as a water park, entertainment plaza, basketball court, and a redeveloped public access to the Dickinson Bayou. “This Project of the Economic Development Corporation and the City of Dickinson has been in the planning and development stage for over two years,” explained Angela Forbes, Director of Economic Development. “Bringing this project to the Gulf Coast Region is the culmination of efforts by the DEDC staff and Board of Directors, the Mayor and Dickinson City Council and by internationally recognized community development and public market consultants, engineers, and architects.” “Hurricane Harvey was responsible for the overwhelming destruction of homes and businesses in Dickinson and Galveston County, added Dr. Darrell Carney, President of DEDC Board of Directors. “The Public Market will help revitalize and invigorate this region by providing new vibrant public spaces, shopping venues and significant economic opportunities for area residents.” The Public Market is expected to generate millions of dollars in new state and local tax revenues to help rebuild the Dickinson and the surrounding region. There have been over 300 new Public Markets created in the country since the renewal of Pike Place Market in the 1970’s. Public Markets have proven to effectively recreate and revitalize communities by providing long-term permanent well-paying jobs, entrepreneurial opportunities, and vibrant social and entertainment venues. Public Markets also spawn adjacent private housing and commercial development that enhance community and regional economic development. Many multibillion-dollar corporations, such as Starbucks Coffee, Sur la Table, and Cascadian Foods got their start as “Mom and Pop” shops in a Public Market. The Gulf Coast Public Market will become a “must visit” destination and have a major impact on the Galveston County region.”
– The Post Newspaper
