Fort Hood region is a growing, vibrant area that embraces the men and women defending our country and elevates the standard of living of all citizens by offering greater opportunities for employment, education and recreation. With two of the cleanest lakes in Killeen, Texas is home to some of the most beautiful natural resources in the area. Those moving to Killeen will discover that it is located in one of the fastest-growing economic corridors in the nation; located an hour's drive from Austin, three hours from San Antonio, four hours from Houston and three from Dallas.
History:
Killeen's namesake, Frank P. Killeen, was an official of the railroad, serving as assistant general manager in Galveston. Although the railroad had platted the town site several months before, few lots had been sold. However, by 1886, the town boasted a population of 300 and by the end of the 1880's, that figure had climbed to 800. It did not take Killeen long to establish itself as a shipping point for agricultural products grown in about a 20-mile radius. Cotton became king and remained so until the establishment of Camp Hood in 1942. Grain, wool and other farming and ranching products also figured prominently in the economy of the town's first 60 years. In 1930, Killeen's population was 1,200, and in the next 10 years, it climbed to 1,265. Then, two years later, the boom hit with the establishment of Camp Hood, a military post that opened on September 18, 1942, as a tank destroyer center. By 1950, the population had jumped to 7,045. In 1950, the Department of the Army declared the Killeen military installation as a permanent post and it automatically became Fort Hood. Things started to boom for the area. From that day forward, the desire was to make Killeen the best town in the nation for military families to live. This was done by developing the infrastructure of the community while encompassing the military as a part of the Killeen family. With tremendous growth in retail trade and in dining facilities in the decade of the 1990s, Killeen has spread its trade area to cover a 100-mile stretch of Central Texas, and, as it did as an agricultural center, pulling people in to take advantage of the special services the city offers. But all along, from the time of Camp Hood, Killeen's first and foremost concern has been its military neighbor, now Fort Hood, and the many friends that the diverse military population brings, making Killeen a truly cosmopolitan city.
Economy:
This dynamic and culturally diverse region is one of the fastest growing markets in Texas. Located halfway between Dallas and San Antonio on Interstate 35, the region is central to all major Texas markets. The area boasts a vast resource of skilled and educated workers, enhanced by the massive presence of Fort Hood, the largest military installation in the US. Add an attractive wage scale and competitive incentives and Central Texas is the smart choice for business expansions and relocations. The Region has a small professional related services sector. Unfortunately, it appears that the area has lost a number of professional related jobs since 2004, as this sector declined from eight percent to six percent today. Conversely, other industries sector grew considerably in the past few years.
Tourism:
For the golfer, head to Killeen Municipal Golf Course. A well-maintained golf course, Killeen Municipal is the perfect place to play a round with friends or work on your short game. Or, you can get a round in at one of 7 other terrific courses located within a 15 mile radius of Killeen. Next, the Fourth Infantry Division Museum traces the patriotic history of the Fourth Infantry Division Fort Hood, is currently the largest military installation in the World. It is home to the 1st Cavalry Division and 4th Infantry Division, Headquarters Command III Corps and 3rd Signal Brigade. This 340-square mile installation paints a picture that is a combination of rich history and 21st century technology. Two exceptional museums tell the story of the 1st Cavalry Division and the 4th Infantry Division. Exhibits featuring General Patton speaking to his troops, photos, memorabilia of Elvis's time here, and Desert Storm, are highlighted in the museums displaying the proud history of Fort Hood. Bring the entire family for a variety of fun and educational activities and exhibits.