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🌱 Patch AM: How a $183 million riverfront overhaul could reshape downtown Waco

Make time for Prairie View A&M Panthers at Baylor Bears Football on the Waco Patch calendar

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Wednesday September 9th Patch AM
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Good morning Waco! We're back in your inbox this morning to keep you in the loop with what's happening in and around town. Grab a cup of coffee and read on. ☀️

In today's newsletter:

  • How a $183 million riverfront overhaul could reshape downtown Waco
  • What Waco is doing to keep your water flowing this summer
  • How Baylor Buddies is quietly changing life for Waco students

Also on today's calendar: Waco Downtown Farmers Market and 9 more events.

Today's riddle: Why did the burglar wear blue gloves? 🤔 (Answer below!)

From our Partner
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Weather forecast:

  • Wednesday: Mostly sunny and hot, with a high of 99 and low of 76 degrees. 🌶 Hot!
  • Thursday: A t-storm around in the p.m., temps: high: 99, low: 77.
  • Friday: A t-storm around in the p.m., with a high of 100 and low of 78 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

1. Waco's Barron's Branch redevelopment moves from planning to construction (kwtx.com) — Waco's Barron's Branch riverfront is finally shifting from planning to heavy construction, starting with major upgrades to aging utilities, drainage, and streets between Fourth Street and the Brazos. City leaders have approved a $183 million first-phase agreement and are reapplying for up to $15 million in federal park funding, hoping to unlock new park space and spur nearby apartments, offices, and restaurants.
   

2. Waco works to prevent water main breaks as heat, dry conditions take a toll (kcentv.com) — City of Waco crews are racing to stay ahead of water main breaks as extreme heat and dry soil put extra stress on underground pipes across town. Officials explain how sensors, routine maintenance, and the 10‑year Building Waco plan aim to upgrade aging water and wastewater systems, while residents are urged to report leaks quickly and maintain their own plumbing.
   

3. 'You are there to be a friend': Students mentor Waco youth through Baylor Buddies (baylorlariat.com) — Baylor students are stepping beyond campus to mentor at-risk kids in Waco schools through the Baylor Buddies program, committing at least an hour a week during the school day. Volunteers receive background checks, orientation, and new awareness training as they build consistent, encouraging relationships that organizers say help bridge gaps between Baylor and local youth while strengthening community on both sides.
   

4. Lubbock man arrested in Waco after 133 pounds of marijuana, $6,804 found in truck (kwtx.com) — State troopers in Waco recently stopped a driver on I-35 and reported finding 133 pounds of vacuum-sealed marijuana and more than $6,800 in cash hidden under a truck bed cover. A 42-year-old Lubbock man now faces marijuana possession and money laundering charges and has been released on bond while the case proceeds.
   

5. Baylor finds confidence and belief despite loss to Auburn (fox44news.com) — Baylor fans in Waco can take heart after the Auburn loss, as players say the close game in Atlanta boosted their confidence, chemistry, and physical play. Veteran leaders describe a supportive sideline, a next-man-up mindset amid injuries, and renewed belief that the Bears can carry this fight into the rest of the season.
   

📸 Around Waco

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🗓 Upcoming Events in Waco

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💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • Please share & repost to help reunite this stray dog!
    Found on September 7, 2026 in Waco, TX 76708 near Chimney Hill Neighborhood Sharing for a neighbor. For the latest information or to contact the… (Nextdoor Cobbs)
  • Looking for someone to deep clean my two story home.
    Is that something someone can do? Any recommendations would be fantastic. (Nextdoor Bosqueville)
  • Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. posted a job opening for Assistant Store Manager in Waco. Apply here.
  • MyJobsCorner posted a job opening for Mover Jobs: Hiring Immediately! Full Time / Part Time - $18-$47/Hr in Waco. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Waco here.

Ok Waco! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!

-- The Patch AM Team

P.S. The answer to today's riddle: So he wouldn't get caught red handed. (Thank you Vicki B. for sending it in!)
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Submit it here!

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