Advancer: Mission Waco's Better Block Party

Downtown Waco after tornado in 1953

           In 1953, the worst tornado to ever hit Texas struck down in Waco, Texas, destroying the downtown area. The once vibrant city life became a victim of urban decay as upper income earners moved out of the decaying area.  North Waco once a prosperous area is now filled with crime, drugs, and poverty.

            Now, over fifty years later, Waco developers and area non-profits are teaming up to bring life back into the ailing downtown area.  On Oct. 30, Mission Waco is hosting The Better Block Project as part of the city’s effort to clean up North Waco. They are shutting the streets down on 15^th and Colcord Avenue to hold the festivities. The event will start at 10 a.m. and conclude at 5 p.m. with the Second Annual Jubilee Music Festival.

Mission Waco Founder Jimmy Dorrell

            “We are bringing in area artists and vendors to show people that there is still life in North Waco,” Mission Waco Founder Jimmy Dorrell said.

            There will be activities for all ages to participate in the event. Beatnix, World Cup Café and D’s Mediterranean will provide food for the attendees.  At the conclusion of the event a Beatles cover band from Dallas,Texas, will be performing at the Jubilee Music Festival right on 15^th street.

            Dorrell said that these efforts will hopefully bring potential business owners and home buyers to the area.

Mission Waco is hoping to promote economic development and neighborhood revitalization through the block party. The organization said that before the event, volunteers from the area will be painting and cleaning up the block to show that the neighborhood does have potential.