Economic Growth is the Plan in the Heart of Texas

A Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) is a region’s roadmap for economic growth and development. Heart of Texas Council of Governments (HOTCOG) encourages residents and business owners in Bosque, Falls, Freestone, Hill, Limestone and McLennan counties to familiarize themselves with the document. The regional CEDS comprises eight sections and is easily accessible online on the HOTCOG website in two forms: an overview and the full, in-depth economic analysis.

“This latest CEDS for the Heart of Texas examines the regional economic situation and potential for growth from 2025-2030,” said HOTCOG Regional and Economic Development Manager Dorthy Jackson. “We aimed to leave no stone unturned about the advantages, challenges and everything in between facing our communities, present and future. Its findings paint a clear picture about the Heart of Texas’ full economic potential and how we can reach it.”

Introduction

The six counties HOTCOG represents combine a rural composition with large urban centers. Located between Dallas, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio, they cover about 5,600 square miles with a population of approximately 374,000. Industries like farming, mining, advanced manufacturing, and healthcare create a diverse economic landscape.

Technical colleges and higher education universities help drive economic growth in the Heart of Texas through workforce development, as do developments in the energy sector, with wind and solar projects complementing existing oil and gas industries.

Summary Background

This section of the CEDS document contains comprehensive demographic data, with past and anticipated future population trends. It can be viewed here. Additionally, it highlights growing industries while providing an overview of the workforce, primary industries, and other factors pertinent to economic performance.

SWOT Analysis

The SWOT Analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) provides a complete picture of the Heart of Texas’ economic future. Regional strengths include a diverse economic base featuring major employers like SpaceX and Baylor University. Local retail and entertainment centers like the Brazos Riverfront are strong drivers of tourism and quality of life. However, challenges must be addressed, such as increasing public transportation in the region’s rural areas, as well as aging infrastructure. View or download the SWOT Analysis.

Strategic Direction/Action Plan

Here, HOTCOG’s vision and strategic direction are laid out, along with goals, objectives and strategy. This section is critical in securing federal funding and grants for local economic development, powering regional growth.

Survey of Economic Development Resources

The 2025-2030 CEDS includes a comprehensive directory of economic development partners, such as the Texas Economic Development Corporation, chambers of commerce, and small business development centers, all of which play essential roles in driving economic growth locally, regionally, and statewide. This section also features information on disaster preparedness and economic resiliency.  

“These resources form the foundation of our blueprint for strong regional economic development,” Jackson said. “By supporting entrepreneurs, attracting investment and facilitating collaborative development strategies, we can achieve a bright economic future for the Heart of Texas.”

Evaluation Framework

This section of the CEDS report leverages local and government data to monitor the Heart of Texas’ economic performance, development impact and strategic progress. Insights are gained by utilizing information from the U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Texas Workforce Commission. Combined with additional tools and data, an evaluation framework is created, allowing for analysis of area workforce trends, economic resilience, business growth and more.

County-Level SWOT

Similar to the broad Heart of Texas SWOT detailed above, the county-level SWOT takes a closer look at the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats facing Bosque, Falls, Freestone, Hill, Limestone and McLennan counties.

References

The closing section of the 2025-2030 CEDS is available in the spirit of full transparency. A full list of references is available for those curious about the project’s research and conclusions.

Questions & Inquiries 

HOTCOG is dedicated to ensuring the long-term strength of its communities by monitoring and driving regional economic growth. Contact us with any questions or to learn more about the CEDS report.