energy

Wichita Falls has been adopting more sustainable energy practices with a focus on energy efficiency and renewable sources. The city's investment in smart grid technology has improved electricity distribution, reducing energy wastage. Residential and commercial buildings are encouraged to upgrade to energy-efficient appliances and lighting, as part of energy conservation programs. Wichita Falls has also seen an increase in solar panel installations, due in part to local incentives for renewable energy adoption. The utility companies offer rebates for customers who install solar panels, and this has positively impacted the city's energy profile. The city's commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions has led to the integration of energy-efficient practices in municipal buildings, public lighting, and traffic signals. The city’s energy education programs are aimed at raising awareness about the benefits of energy conservation and helping consumers to understand their energy usage patterns. While wind energy potential in the region is significant, its contribution to Wichita Falls' energy mix is growing as the city looks to diversify its energy sources.

water

Wichita Falls has made significant strides in water efficiency, particularly following severe droughts in the past. The city has a comprehensive water reuse system that treats wastewater to non-potable standards for use in irrigation and industrial processes. Rebates are offered to residents who install water-efficient appliances and fixtures, such as low-flow toilets and showerheads. The city has also implemented tiered water pricing to encourage conservation, with higher rates for increased usage. Wichita Falls has an active leak detection program to minimize water loss from the distribution system. Rain barrel programs and xeriscaping promotions encourage the use of drought-tolerant landscaping to reduce outdoor water use. The city's long-term water conservation and drought contingency plans underscore the importance of sustainable water management. Water-saving awareness campaigns are regularly conducted to educate the public on the importance of water conservation. The city has also invested in infrastructure to capture and store rainwater, enhancing its water security.

transportation

Transportation efficiency in Wichita Falls includes advancements in public transportation and infrastructure improvements. The city's public transit system, managed by Wichita Falls Transit System (WFTS), has been optimizing routes and schedules to improve service reliability and reduce fuel consumption. The local government has invested in the maintenance and expansion of bike lanes and pedestrian paths to encourage non-vehicular travel, contributing to reduced traffic congestion and emissions. There are initiatives to replace older vehicles in the city’s fleet with more fuel-efficient or electric models. Wichita Falls offers incentives for the use of electric vehicles (EVs) including installation of public EV charging stations. Park-and-ride programs are designed to decrease individual car use, and carpooling is actively promoted. Transit-oriented developments are on the rise, aiming to create more walkable communities around transit hubs. The city’s transportation planning also incorporates traffic flow improvements to cut down on idling time and fuel usage, further enhancing transportation efficiency.

waste

Wichita Falls has been proactive in managing waste through various programs aimed at waste reduction and increased recycling rates. The city offers curbside recycling services, encouraging residents to separate recyclables from regular waste. There is a focus on composting, with the city providing information and resources for residents to compost at home, thus diverting organic waste from landfills. The local government has implemented electronic waste recycling initiatives to handle the safe disposal of electronics. Hazardous waste collection events are organized to prevent improper disposal of materials that could harm the environment. Wichita Falls has a solid waste management plan that promotes the principles of reduce, reuse, and recycle among businesses and residents. The city works with schools and community groups to educate on the importance of waste reduction. Efforts are ongoing to increase the life of current landfill facilities through efficient waste diversion strategies. Initiatives such as plastic bag bans or fees have been considered to further reduce single-use plastics in the waste stream.