Denison city leaders gathered Monday night for a work session to discuss the future of the vacant parcel at the intersection of Barrett Avenue and Main Street, the former high‑school site that has sat empty for more than ten years. The property, which currently serves as the Saturday Farmers Market location, is owned by the city and sits on roughly over three acres of land on the 700 block of Main Street.
According to KTEN, the session included a presentation for taxpayers outlining possible uses. Tony Kaai, president of the Denison Development Alliance, said developers have expressed interest in a mixed‑use project that would replicate the existing Main Street pattern: retail on the ground floor with loft‑style residential units above. Kaai added that any green space would remain public, preserving the area for events such as the farmers market.
KXII reported that the council did not take formal action during the meeting, describing it as an informational work session. Mayor Robert Crawley emphasized that the purpose was to bring ideas to the public for the first time and to start a dialogue with the community. Public comments were not permitted at the session, though attendees were noted as “interested” and some expressed frustration at the lack of immediate decision‑making.
Both outlets noted that the concepts presented are preliminary. One option, highlighted by Kaai, involves a private‑development partnership that would bring housing and businesses to the block, following the retail‑plus‑loft model. An alternative would keep the land in public hands and add amenities, a route that would likely require the use of public funds.
City officials stressed that any final plan will require extensive collaboration among the community, the council, and a developer to negotiate an agreement on uses and financing. No specific developer has been selected, and no project has been confirmed at this stage.
What’s next: The council plans to continue the public‑engagement process, with additional work sessions and possible public hearings slated for the coming months. Residents will be invited to provide feedback as the city refines the proposals and seeks a development partner.
