10 things to look for in 2017 The creation of the Downtown West project would allow for most city offices to be housed in a central location.[/caption]

What we reported

In September, the city of Georgetown staff announced they were moving forward with detailed design work for Downtown West, a project that would consolidate most city offices into a civic center just west of the Square. The decision was made after receiving direction from Georgetown City Council to proceed with a $13 million overall budget for the project at its Aug. 23 workshop session. Funding for the project will come from the sale of existing city buildings, such as City Hall and the visitor’s bureau.

The latest

As of January, the project is undergoing design, City Manager David Morgan said. Downtown West will be located near the Georgetown public library, and Morgan said he believes the new development will re-energize the area and allow for more  money to go back on the tax roll. 

What’s next

Morgan said the city is planning to begin construction during the second quarter of 2017. The city is hoping the movement of its buildings further west will allow for more commercial development on the Square and bring new business to the area, including new restaurants and office space, Morgan said.

This story is one update from the January Issue. View the full list of 10 things to look for in 2017 here.