The City of Celina, Texas, has completed the purchase of a downtown property known as The Forge, a 4,600-square-foot building at 132 N. Louisiana Dr., positioning the acquisition as a long-term investment in the growth and vitality of the city’s historic Downtown.
City leaders framed the purchase as a move to strengthen Downtown Celina as both a community gathering hub and an emerging destination. In the near term, the City plans to activate the property’s rear patio as a flexible public space that can support downtown events, community gatherings, and other placemaking efforts intended to enhance the resident and visitor experience.
The City is also working with the Celina Economic Development Corporation to evaluate how the building and site can be used to support future business opportunities. City and CEDC staff are reviewing proposals and developing plans for the next phase of the property, with an emphasis on aligning any direction with Downtown Celina’s longer-term economic development and placemaking goals.
Officials said the purchase aligns with the City and CEDC’s broader destination development strategy, which views Downtown Celina as a driver of economic growth, quality of life, and local identity. The City indicated additional updates will be shared as planning progresses.
KEY QUOTE:
“Downtown Celina is the heart of our community, and this purchase allows us to be proactive and intentional with a key property in our historic core. We’re excited about the opportunities this space creates – not only to support community activation today, but also to thoughtfully plan for its future in a way that reflects Celina’s character and long-term vision.”
Mayor Ryan Tubbs
