Over the past decade, Joshua has flourished and grown in size, population and culture. 

One example of this newfound urbanization is the Jett Sett Salon & Suites, a local small business dedicated to cosmetology estimated to open for business by the end of April.  

The city’s growth in urbanization benefits students by providing establishments to work at or cultural spots for recreational use. 

In part of the growth of population, neighborhoods such as Mountain Valley, Cooper Valley and Joshua Meadows have expanded to maintain the influx of people moving to the city. Because of the arrival of new residents, Joshua Independent School District has created a long term bond proposal to be voted on May 7 to create a new elementary school, expand Nichols middle school, and other projects which would benefit the school district. 

Although the Joshua City Park has been a recreational place utilized by previous generations of Joshua residents, newer places have been a pleasant addition for residents and students alike. Students can study at Starbucks, work out at the YMCA, or discover a new look soon at Jett Sett.

With the increase in fast food restaurants in the city, for some, the rapid growth does not outweigh the loss of a sense of place. Some students hail from generations of town residents who see the exponential urbanization of the city as frightening and a disturbance to the culture of the small town. 

In the past few years, many restaurants such as Hickory Tree, La Mesa, The Owl’s Nest, Tortilleria Tepito, and others have popped up. The city has been a harbor for small businesses since the pandemic took a blow to local establishments, and having the teenage workforce employed at the new restaurants keeps the businesses alive. When students work jobs locally, they not only contribute to the local economy, but also gather beneficial job experience necessary for life after high school. 

By going out and visiting small businesses, high school students can improve the welfare of the city. Especially after the pandemic, businesses in the city need the students’ help to support and promote their company.