Week in Review, Oct. 31, 2025

Oct. 31, 2025

This is the latest edition of Week In Review - a series of weekly messages from the Mayor and City Council to help Richardson residents and businesses keep up to date on municipal events. If you would like to sign up to receive this in a weekly e-mail click here.

Throughout the year, the City Council or City Plan Commission will hold meetings on topics of significant interest to local neighborhoods or the community in general. Links to view all City Council or City Plan Commission meeting documents that may have topics of interest to you can be found here:

City Council | City Plan Commission

Early Voting Ends Tonight
Early voting for the Nov. 4 Constitutional Amendment Joint and Special Election, including the Richardson ISD Bond Election, ends tonight (Oct. 31). Voters may vote at any vote center designated by the county in which they are registered. Note that City Hall is not an early voting location in Richardson.

Early Voting Centers:

Website: https://www.cor.net/election

Election Day is Nov. 4
Voting will take place Tuesday, Nov. 4 for the Constitutional Amendment, Special and Joint Election from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Voters may vote at any Vote Center designated by the county in which they are registered.

Election Day Vote Centers:

Website: https://www.cor.net/election

Free DART Transportation to the Polls on Election Day
On Tuesday, Nov. 4, Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) will be offering free rides to vote throughout the DART service area.

All rides will be free of charge across the following DART services:

To ride for free, present your voter registration card to your DART operator or fare enforcement officer. Riders using GoLink can enter the promo code VOTENOV4 in the GoPass app to redeem a complimentary Adult Local Day Pass.

Website: Click here

DART Silver Line Now in Service, Ride from Richardson to DFW Airport
With several ribbon cuttings and grand opening celebrations, the DART Silver Line opened last weekend and is now in service, with two new stations in Richardson (at CityLine/Bush and UT Dallas). The 26-mile rail line connects seven cities via 10 stations from Plano to DFW Airport, utilizing quiet, modern Stadler FLIRT trains that meet the EPA's highest clean-air standards.

Service at a Glance

The Silver Line is free to ride through Saturday, Nov. 8; after Nov. 8, several fare options are available; a 3-hour regular fare pass costs $3. According to DART scheduling, it takes approximately 48 minutes to ride to the airport from the City/Line Bush station; 42 minutes from UT Dallas Station.

The CityLine/Bush Station includes more than 1,100 free parking spaces and the UT Dallas station includes 200+ free parking spaces.

Website: https://www.dart.org

Video: Link

Citywide Winter Watering Schedule Begins Tomorrow
Beginning Saturday, Nov. 1, residents can water their yards at any time on their twice-per-week designated watering days to avoid freezing temperatures (average first fall frost/light freeze date for Richardson is Nov. 13). If sprinklers run overnight during freezing weather, they can cause dangerous conditions on roads and sidewalks.

To receive weekly, personalized recommendations on how much water your yard needs (based on ZIP code, current weather and type of sprinkler system), visit https://www.watermyyard.org.

Website: https://www.cor.net/waterconservation Website: https://www.cor.net/epi

City Council Receives First Briefing on Housing Study Results
Consultant staff from GrowAmerica presented a first briefing on the results from the Housing Needs Assessment and Strategy at Monday's City Council meeting. The assessment was commissioned by the City in late 2024 to identify current and future housing needs specific to Richardson. Monday's briefing focused on data that provided a broad, citywide overview of Richardson housing supply and demand dynamics, with three key housing needs identified as well as possible City actions to help meet those needs.

Identified Richardson Housing Needs:

Consultants will present a second briefing later this year focused on micro-level data, incorporating Council feedback received Monday and offering deeper insight to help refine strategies, goals and priorities.

Monday's presentation: Video

Richardson CARES Class Concludes; Graduates Recognized at City Council Meeting
Members of the seventh Richardson CARES (Citizens Academy & Resource Education Series) class were recognized at Monday's City Council work session. The 26-member class recently completed eight weekly sessions at a variety of City venues learning about the functions of municipal government and its day-to-day operations.

The sessions often included demonstrations, behind-the-scenes tours and hands-on activities, including role-playing as budget staff, sitting in the driver's seat of large street maintenance vehicles, deciding on a mock zoning case, operating a fire hose and going backstage at the Eisemann Center. An optional ninth session took CARES participants on a tour around the city to view major projects under construction including the Richardson Public Library and new City Hall.

The free, annual program is open to anyone age 18 and older with an interest in learning more about the City of Richardson's municipal government. Applications for the next Richardson CARES will open in summer 2026.

Website: https://www.cor.net/RichardsonCARES Video: Link

Honeywell Richardson Achieves OSHA Safety Award; Honored with City Council Proclamation
At Monday's City Council meeting, Honeywell's Richardson facility was honored for earning the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) Voluntary Protection Program Star designation - OSHA's highest level of recognition for workplace safety and health. This achievement places Honeywell among an elite group representing fewer than 1 percent of U.S. worksites recognized for exemplary safety and health management.

A proclamation issued Monday night by the City Council noted that Honeywell has achieved nearly nine years without a recordable workplace injury and that the award was a testament to Honeywell's leadership, teamwork and commitment of its employees and management "who make safety a shared priority every day."

Founded in the 1960s as Spectronics, Honeywell's site in Richardson has been a major player in the development of advanced sensor technologies and was the site of NASA's first two-way radio transmission.

Monday's presentation: video

UT Dallas, Startup Runway Collaborate on Startup Support
City of Richardson partners Startup Runway and UT Dallas signed a Memorandum of Understanding this week at The IQ®HQ to collaborate on a new program that supports startups. The program, entitled "Comet Pitch," will connect UT Dallas students, alumni and community members directly with investors and venture capitalists to pitch their business ideas. Comet Pitch will offer mentorship, guidance and funding opportunities for startups at all stages, with initial sessions beginning in November.

Partnerships like this strengthen our local startup ecosystem and showcase how Richardson and The IQ® continue to foster meaningful connections that give emerging companies access to the resources, expertise and capital they need to grow and succeed.

Startup submission form: bit.ly/47sCF1C

Website: https://www.richardsoneconomicdevelopment.com

Website: https://www.richardsoniq.com

New Trees Planted at Memorial Park
Tree planting took place at Richardson's Memorial Park (601 Centennial Blvd.) this week, with redbuds, Zexmenias and Chinese pistache now beautifying the park. Rock and mulch landscaping is scheduled for next week. The trees replace several dead and dying trees that were removed earlier this year following safety concerns raised by nearby residents. Certified Parks and Recreation staff with expertise in tree health assessed the area and confirmed that the trees posed a heightened risk of structural failure, creating a public safety hazard.

Residents who notice potentially hazardous trees or other safety concerns in local parks are encouraged to contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 972-744-4300.

Christmas Parade Registration Now Open
Registration has begun for Richardson's 53rd Annual Christmas Parade, to be held Saturday, Dec. 6. This year's parade theme is "Holidays Around the World," a redo of last year's theme due to the weather-related cancellation of the 2024 parade. Individuals and groups are encouraged to interpret the theme with costumes, vehicles, pets and floats.

This year's parade will be held on the east side of Richardson along Plano Road near Huffhines Park. The entry fee is $25 for individuals/organizations and $100 for businesses, plus a new, unwrapped toy (multiple toy donations are encouraged for groups). The event benefits Network of Community Ministries.

The registration form and parade rules can be found online. Deadline for registration is 11:59 p.m. Monday, Nov. 24. Friends of the Parade VIP tickets are also on sale and receive reserved parking and seating, as well as complimentary hot cocoa, breakfast goodies and other refreshments.

Website: https://www.cor.net/ChristmasParade

Daylight Saving Time Begins this Weekend; Time to Turn Clocks Back
Time falls back an hour at 2 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 2, when Daylight Saving Time ends for the year. When you are changing your clocks, the Fire Department encourages you to check the batteries in your smoke detectors. If the batteries need replacing, the Department recommends replacing them with lithium batteries since they last longer than traditional batteries. Having a working smoke alarm/CO alarm increases the chances of escaping and surviving a home fire or carbon monoxide leak.

Richardson Today in Mailboxes Next Week
The November 2025 print edition of Richardson Today is expected to hit mailboxes next week. In it, you'll learn all about Richardson's upcoming "Culture in The CORE" event coming up Nov. 8 (including a map); the results of the City's 2025 Corporate Challenge benefitting Special Olympics Texas; winter lawn care; and several upcoming holiday events where you can interact with Santa.

Richardson Today is mailed to every residence in the city. Ask your local mail carrier if you do not receive your copy and you live within the boundaries of Richardson.

Website: https://www.RichardsonToday.com

Cotton Belt Trail Construction, Tree Removal to Begin Next Week on Synergy Park Boulevard
Construction activity for the Cotton Belt Trail, a 26-mile paved hike and bike trail, will begin along Synergy Park Boulevard starting the week of Monday, Nov. 3. Initial work will include demolition, clearing and grubbing, tree protection and selective tree removal to prepare for trail construction.

The Cotton Belt Trail is part of a regional initiative led by the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) in partnership with DART, UT Dallas and multiple cities including Richardson. This project will enhance trail connectivity between UT Dallas, nearby neighborhoods and destinations throughout the region.

All tree removals are being conducted in accordance with the City of Richardson's Tree Preservation Ordinance, and the project will include mitigation measures such as replacement plantings to preserve and enhance the community's tree canopy. The City will also monitor construction to ensure compliance with environmental and tree preservation standards.

Residents may experience some construction activity and equipment in the area during the initial clearing phase. See below for additional work taking place along Synergy Park Boulevard that will affect traffic.

More information: Contact the City of Richardson at [email protected] or call 972-744-4330 during normal business hours (Mon-Fri 7 a.m. - 5 p.m.).

Lane Closures Expected Next Week on Synergy Park Boulevard due to Roadway, Utility Work
The left lanes of northbound and southbound Synergy Park Boulevard between Point North Parkway and Floyd Road may be closed to traffic from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 3 and Tuesday, Nov. 4 as utility work takes place related to the DART Silver Line. The work is expected to be complete by early November. Then starting Wednesday Nov. 5, the right lane of southbound Synergy Park Boulevard between Renner Road and the railroad bridge may be closed to traffic at all times as roadway construction work takes place, also related to the DART Silver Line. This work is expected to wrap up by late January.

https://www.cor.net/projects

Holiday Bazaar Begins Next Friday Morning
Richardson Senior Center, 820 W. Arapaho Rd.
Admission: Free
Nov. 7-8
9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Start your holiday shopping at the Richardson Senior Center's Holiday Bazaar. The annual event features a wide variety of vendors selling everything from figurines and holiday cards to aprons and quilts.

Dia de los Muertos Cemetery Tour Tomorrow
Spring Creek Trailhead, Reserve at Spring Creek Apartments
Cost: $5 (registration link)
Saturday, Nov. 1
9:30-10:30 a.m.

The Richardson Parks and Rec Department presents this unique walking tour of Routh Cemetery (which dates back to 1850), a chance to learn about the individuals who shaped our community while honoring the deceased through beautiful holiday traditions. As you walk among the tombstones, you'll hear the stories of early settlers of the Richardson and Plano areas, including the Routh and Campbell families. Many of their descendants continue to be involved in the preservation and care of this important site. Note: The tour is geared for adults.

UT Dallas Chess Team Day Tomorrow
City Council Chamber, 2360 Campbell Creek Blvd., Ste. 525
Admission: Free
Saturday, Nov. 1
2-3:30 p.m.

Children and teens ages 6-18 are invited to play chess against UT Dallas' nationally ranked chess players or against young fellow chess fans and enjoy other cool chess activities. Registration is only required for a simultaneous play spot. Call 972-744-4358 or visit the Youth Services Help Desk to register.

R.O.V.E.R. Roams Next Thursday
Breckinridge Park South Pavilion, 3555 Brand Rd., Entrance C
Cost: Free
Thursday, Nov. 6
5-6 p.m.

Kids and families are invited to join Richardson Public Library's outreach van, R.O.V.E.R., for stories, crafts, games and discovery in the park. Explore new books and take part in hands-on activities, all outside! No registration required. Just drop by and join the fun!

https://www.cor.net/Library

At the Eisemann Center:

• RSO: "Barber & Beethoven" Tomorrow Night
  Hill Performance Hall
  Tickets: $26-$86 (tickets)
  Saturday, Nov. 1
  7:30 p.m.
  
  The Richardson Symphony Orchestra presents an emotional night of lyrical passion and triumph as they present Barber's Violin Concerto, featuring violinist Eunice Keem, Associate Concertmaster of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, and Beethoven's Third Symphony.
  
  
• RCB: "Flute Cocktail" Free Concert Sunday Afternoon
  Hill Performance Hall
  Admission: Free ticket (tickets)
  Sunday, Nov. 2
  3 p.m.
  
  The Richardson Community Band kicks off its 20th Eisemann Center season with a "sparkling celebration" of the flute and piccolo, featuring local flutist Margaret Shin Fischer. Get ready for a mix of favorites like the vibrant La Procession du Rocio, the heart-tugging Schindler's List, the energetic Irish Washerwoman and the crowd-pleaser Tutti Frutti.
  
  
• Veronica Swift with Texins Jazz Band Sunday Night
  Bank of America Theatre
  Tickets: $29-$37 (tickets)
  Sunday, Nov. 2
  7 p.m.
  
  The Texins Jazz Band, a full 18-piece community big band, is back with jazz vocal sensation Veronica Swift, a past runner-up in the Thelonious Monk vocal competition. Selections include the music of Stevie Wonder, Dinah Washington, The Beatles, The Beach Boys, Dresden Dolls, Atlanta Rhythm Section as well as songs from Broadway. The Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra's Jazz Orchestra will open the show and perform with Veronica as well.

At UT Dallas:

• MOMIX Performance, Other Activities Honor Moses Pendleton
  The creativity of Moses Pendleton, founder and artistic director of the internationally renowned company of dancers/illusionists known as MOMIX, will be featured in several activities Nov. 2-4 at UT Dallas. Pendleton is the recipient of UT Dallas' 2025 Richard Brettell Award in the Arts.
  
  Details:
  All events in ATC building, 800 W. Campbell Rd.
  Admission: Open to the public and free
  (Note: some events required advance reservation)
  • Momix Performance Sunday, Nov. 2, 3 p.m., ATC lecture hall
  • Moses Pendleton Lecture Monday, Nov. 3, 5:30 p.m., ATC lecture hall
  • PAREIDOLIA Photography Exhibit and artist talk, Tuesday, Nov. 4, 6 p.m., ATC LED Wall

  More information: Click here https://www.bass.utdallas.edu

Composting and Other Ways to Reuse Pumpkins
Though pumpkins are still in style through Thanksgiving, many people dispose of their pumpkins as soon as Halloween is over. Before sending them to the landfill, consider reusing your pumpkins with these ideas from the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service:

More ideas: Click here

Website: https://www.cor.net/richardsonplants

Options for Safe Drug Disposal Year-Round
If you missed the Richardson Police Department's Drug Take Back event last weekend, the Health Department has links on its web page with information about how to safely dispose of expired and/or unused prescription and over-the counter drugs year-round. The best disposal methods keep drugs out of our water supply. Here are two suggestions found at one of the links (from the Federal Drug Administration) on how to dispose of medicines in the trash:

In addition, several pharmacy retailers including CVS and Walgreens provide drug take back bins indoors year-round at select locations; check their websites for more information.

Animal Services Officer ($46,204 - $65,549 Salary)
Animal Services is looking for an individual who loves animals, and under general supervision routinely patrol city streets, clean, and maintain Animal Shelter daily. Texas Driver's License, Class C, required.

Heavy Equipment Operator ($48,661 - $66,830 Salary)
The Public Services Department has multiple job openings for Heavy Equipment Operator for individuals with experience operating heavy motorized equipment. Depending on department, a Class A or Class B Texas Commercial Drivers License will be required or obtained within 6 months.

Fleet Porter PT ($20.56/hr to $28.86/hr)
Fleet is currently looking for an individual who can perform general automotive maintenance and assist Fleet Technicians with general repairs and welding on City vehicles/equipment.

For additional open positions, visit https://www.cor.net/MakeaDifference.

Pet of the Week
Meet Dillon, a 6-year-old pitbull with a heart as big as his smile. Recently treated for heartworms, Dillon has shown resilience and an unwavering friendly demeanor. He's a sweet companion who loves to be around people, making everyone he meets feel special. Dillon enjoys leisurely walks. His kind nature makes him an excellent candidate for a loving home where he can share his affection and joy. Consider giving Dillon the forever home he deserves and experience the unconditional love he offers.

For information about animals available for adoption, visit the Animal Shelter's web page here.

City Council Links

Council Members
Meeting Agendas and Documents
Videos

To read previous Week in Reviews,

visit https://www.cor.net/WIR.