The City of Arlington was presented with Scenic City Certification on Thursday, Oct. 10 in Houston, at an event held in conjunction with the Texas Municipal League’s Annual Conference. 175 Scenic City officials and business leaders from across the state were on hand to recognize Arlington, which was among 15 cities to earn certification for the 2024 -2029 period.

The Scenic City Certification Program is a project of Scenic Texas, Inc. Texas cities access this diagnostic program for an objective review of existing municipal infrastructure ordinances as they relate to public roadways and public spaces. The evaluation compares the applicant city’s standards to the unique Scenic City model devised by the partnership organizations. Assessment is points-based, with every applicant city receiving a detailed, scored evaluation. Official certification can be earned by the cities that score in the upper range and meet stringent scenic streetscape standards.

The City of Arlington has consistently demonstrated its dedication to enhancing public spaces and roadways through long-term, strategic investments. Significant projects include the revitalization of downtown areas, corridor beautification, and green infrastructure improvements such as extensive tree planting and stormwater management practices. Arlington’s forward-thinking policies, including a pilot program incentivizing the removal of nonconforming pole signs, new ordinances limiting visual blight from heavy truck parking, and enhanced landscaping standards in the new industrial-based Flex Hybrid zoning district, showcase the City’s commitment to maintaining scenic and sustainable environments. Additionally, projects such as the development of the Rotary Dream Park and the Mineral Well Public Plaza reflect Arlington’s investment in creating vibrant public spaces. The City’s efforts to protect natural areas, including the preservation of native Cross Timbers species and strengthened tree preservation ordinances, further highlight its commitment to maintaining Arlington’s scenic beauty for future generations.

“Scenic City Certification shines a light on Arlington’s strong commitment to high-quality standards for public roadways and public spaces,” said Anne Culver, executive vice president of Scenic Texas. “This recognition is intended to support cities that have a long-range vision, and we hope it incentivizes other cities to follow Arlington’s example.”

Scenic City Certification Program Partners include the American Planning Association-Texas Chapter, American Council of Engineering Companies of Houston, Houston-Galveston Area Council, Keep Texas Beautiful, North Central Texas Council of Governments, Scenic America, Scenic Houston, Texas Downtown Association, Texas Economic Development Council, Texas Historical Commission, Texas Municipal League, Urban Land Institute – Austin, Urban Land Institute – Houston, and Urban Land Institute – San Antonio.