Draft Town Center small-area plan emphasizes tree preservation, 'Main Street' design and a 24–36 month build flag

Consultants presented a draft Town Center small-area plan to the Argyle MDD on Dec. 2 that centers on preserving mature trees and fitting low-scale commercial development within the existing tree lines rather than clearing sites for standard suburban grids.

The presenter described guiding principles — authenticity, local economic engine and active, natural public spaces — and showed examples from other communities where developers used narrow main streets, rear parking and pedestrian-friendly blocks adjacent to preserved tree stands. The consultant said, "start with preserving those trees and finding ways to have a development that nestles in along the tree line," and repeatedly cautioned the plan is draft material "not brought to council yet, not approved, not voted on."

The plan highlights a town-owned 6-acre tract and a nearby 5-acre stand of trees at the Waterbrook retail corner (referred to in the presentation as "Village Green") and illustrated how a low cross-section roadway and rear parking can support small retail, restaurants and occasional street closures for events. Staff and the consultant noted that the current development code does not support many elements of the plan and that implementation will require overlays, setback adjustments, an updated thoroughfare plan and impact-fee or incentive tools to preserve trees without encouraging harmful removal.

On timing, staff said the draft could be brought to Town Council for consideration in January, with early, visible elements realistically flagged for 24–36 months if phasing and developer interest align. The presentation was for feedback; no adoption or vote occurred at the MDD meeting.

Next steps: staff to solicit further community feedback, coordinate necessary code and thoroughfare updates, and return with recommended implementation steps.