With unprecedented population growth in Montgomery County, the city of Magnolia is preparing for new residents and visitors by investing in community amenities.

On April 13, the city hosted a conference in partnership with the Central East Texas Alliance and the Sam Houston State University Center for Rural Studies. CETA works with communities to promote and advise economic development and community involvement.
Magnolia Economic Development Coordinator Tana Ross said the conference helped to highlight and reinforce many ideas the city has already begun to implement with its comprehensive plan, which was adopted in 2013.

“Many of those goals have been accomplished, including adoption of the unified development code, adoption of zoning, improved and new roadways, and annexation,” Ross said. “All of this creates a welcoming atmosphere for doing business in Magnolia.”

With policies in place, Ross said the city is focusing on how it can attract visitors and encourage community involvement for people already living in the area.

“Every small town and every city across America capitalizes on what is unique and authentic to them,” Ross said. 
“In Magnolia, we are recognized by visitors as being authentic. Whether they’re here to tour the depot, visit the farmers market or staying for an event, visitors like the city’s pace and atmosphere.:

Ross said the city recently secured a grant from the Houston-Galveston Area Council to restore the roof of the Magnolia Historic Depot building and is looking toward additional investments for the community.

In late February, the city, the Magnolia Community Foundation, the Magnolia Rotary Club and nonprofit organization Small Feet Big Strides completed work on a wheelchair accessible swing in Unity Park as part of the inclusive Unity Forest Playground.

“There will be more steps like this taken to enhance our original township as the rest of the city grows progressively,” Ross said.