Arlington Mayor Jim Ross shared exciting highlights about Arlington’s past year and its future at the Greater Arlington Chamber’s 20th Annual State of the City, presented by Arlington Highlands.
In the last year, Arlington hosted several key events, including the grand opening of the National Medal of Honor Museum, the first ever Lone Star Smokeout and the inaugural Texas Veterans Day Parade and drone show.
“Arlington is the capital of sports, entertainment, culture and economic development,” Ross said.
The Grand Prix of Arlington will take over the streets of Arlington next year. In March, Indy Car will race on a 2.73 mile track around AT&T Stadium and Globe Life Field. Streets are already being prepared for the over 180 mph race.
Next year, Arlington will also host nine FIFA World Cup games, more than any other host city in North America. Over 100,000 fans are expected to flock to Arlington each match day. Ross said they expect a $2 billion economic impact across North Texas.
“The World Cup isn’t just about soccer,” he said. “This is going to set a legacy for us. This is going to be a mark of the world that will last long beyond that last whistle of the last soccer match here in Arlington. It’s that legacy that not only tells us where we’re going and what we’re going to be like in the future, but it’s the legacy that tells us why Arlington works.”
In his address, Ross described how Arlington city departments work everyday to make Arlington a thriving city.
“Arlington is not just getting ready for the future; we are building it,” he said. “That’s Arlington Works. The promise that we deliver every day, often without fanfare, but always with pride.”
Ross said public safety continues to improve, with crime rates down, faster emergency response times and new innovations like the fire department’s whole blood program. Public works and the water department also played a key role, improving roadways, maintaining stormwater systems and modernizing water infrastructure to ensure safe, reliable service for residents.
Ross emphasized how departments are collaborating with each other and with community partners to navigate challenges while still investing in quality-of-life improvements like parks, recreation centers and libraries. These collaborations are what Ross described as the foundation of a city that “works.”
During his address, Ross awarded Michael Jacobson, President & CEO of the Chamber, the Mayor’s American Dream Award, recognizing him for his dedication to the city.
Watch Ross’s entire address HERE.
In addition to the Mayor’s address, the Chamber presented the 2025 Small Business of the Year Awards, sponsored by UTA College of Business, to recipients on stage.
Overall Small Business of the Year: Wade Funeral Home & Crematory
Nonprofit: Miracle League of Arlington
Veteran-Owned: Juno’s Liquor
Woman-Owned: Olive Physical Therapy
Minority-Owned: Parc West Luxury Living
Learn more about this year’s incredible recipients HERE.