Harlingen, TX (KRGV) — The city of Harlingen is holding community events to gather ideas for a plan to revitalize downtown.

Harlingen City Commissioner District 2 Daniel Nemecio Lopez said the city is partnering with the D-PRAT program to put the plan together.

"So that the downtown that we build is a reflection of who we are and where we want to go, and so that's why public input is fundamental. This plan will fail if the public does not participate," Lopez said.

The D-PRAT program brings together volunteers from across the country with backgrounds in city planning, historic preservation and design. They help communities find ways to improve and revitalize downtown areas.

Some residents want more investment and a focus on small businesses.

"That'd be great to have street improvement, but as a longtime resident of Harlingen, I am really open to seeing other businesses thrive and just have the opportunity here in downtown Harlingen," Harlingen resident Jacob Montalvo said.

Others want the city to preserve historic buildings.

"I love the idea of preserving and restoring, but keeping the traditional styles of the buildings. I do understand that times are changing and I want to maintain the small business vibe," Harlingen resident Mia Garcia said.

Once the city gets input from the community, it will put a plan in place.

"That action plan will be brought before the city commission, and the city commission will approve it with them. Tell each department their marching orders. Hey, planning and zoning, you need to do x. Fire department, you need to do y, and the downtown improvement needs to do this," Lopez said.

The city will hold a community event on Nov. 16 at the Centennial Park at 4 p.m. and a second event on Nov. 17 at the Harlingen Arts Center beginning at 3 p.m.

The city also plans to have an online survey.