Anna, Texas -- The City of Anna announces the departure of its Director of Economic Development, Bernie Parker, whose last day was Thursday, July 17. Parker has played a critical role in shaping Anna’s rapid growth and economic future, leaving behind a legacy of strategic accomplishments and tangible progress that will benefit the city for years to come.
Since joining the organization, Parker has been a driving force in Anna’s extraordinary growth and transformation, leading several high-impact initiatives that have shaped the city’s future while preserving its unique character. His work in the redevelopment of the downtown district has resulted in more than $10 million in new investment through the recruitment of five new restaurants, including Papa Gallo’s, Tender Smokehouse, and The Gin. He oversaw the financing and design of a new supportive parking lot, guided the creation of a pedestrian-only thoroughfare linking key downtown corridors, and managed $4.5 million in land acquisitions to spur long-term investment. One of his most notable projects included the renovation of an abandoned municipal building into the city’s first downtown brewery, breathing new life into a once-quiet district.
Beyond downtown, Parker played a pivotal role in shaping the city’s residential and commercial footprint. He negotiated annexation and development agreements for three master planned communities totaling over 3,000 acres, projects that will bring approximately 7,000 new single-family homes and an estimated $10.5 billion in private investment. Parker also led negotiations with developers on public infrastructure districts and tax increment reinvestment zones, ensuring that growth aligned with infrastructure capacity and community expectations.
His strategic leadership extended to the regional recruitment of commercial and retail businesses, positioning Anna for long-term success along US 75, Highway 5, and the Collin County Outer Loop. Notably, his work helped secure a future Kroger along the US 75 corridor, an anchor that signals continued momentum and confidence in Anna’s market from major national retailers.
“Over the course of my tenure, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with Bernie and witnessing his remarkable contributions to our community’s growth and prosperity,” said Mayor Pete Cain. “His leadership, vision, and relentless dedication serve as a true model of excellence. He has an extraordinary ability to unite stakeholders, navigate complex challenges, and deliver results that benefit everyone in Anna.”
Acting City Manager Marc Marchand echoed that sentiment: “Bernie’s efforts helped lay the foundation for a vibrant, sustainable, and opportunity-rich future in Anna. While we are sorry to see him go, we are grateful for the legacy he leaves behind and wish him all the best in his next chapter.
About Anna
Anna, Texas, is among the fastest-growing cities in North Texas, with a population of more than 30,000 and expected growth to 100,000 by 2050. Located in northern Collin County along U.S Highway 75, State Highway 5, and State Highway 121, Anna is a vibrant and emerging city that offers its neighbors an excellent quality of life and low cost of living. The combination of Anna’s strategic location along busy thoroughfares and the quantity of undeveloped land have positioned the city as an attractive location for retail and commercial establishments. Neighbors enjoy recreational opportunities, parks, trails, open spaces, easy access to the DFW and Red River corridors and a pace of living that offers a hometown feel in a thriving community. To learn more about the City of Anna, visit www.annatexas.gov.
