Getting to Know Richardson: Known as the “
Telecom Corridor,”
Richardson is home to more than 600 technology firms, such as AT&T, Cisco Systems, Samsung Mobile, Ericsson, Raytheon and the new headquarters for State Farm. With a population of approximately 111,000, Richardson has numerous affordable housing options as well as executive homes in manicured neighborhoods, all of which have access to the city’s 30 parks and walking trails. Richardson is one of the most connected communities in the Metroplex, with easy access to major roadways and the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) rail system. Richardson students attend one of Texas’ top-ranked school districts. The
Richardson Independent School District has a reputation for educational excellence as it is continually recognized at the state and national ranks. RISD is comprised of 55 campuses that serve more than 38,000 students. The opportunities for
high quality education extend to the collegiate level as
The University of Texas at Dallas calls Richardson its home.
Entertainment: Richardson’s vast dining,
shopping and recreational selections have flourished into a popular entertainment spot for residents and visitors alike.
The Eisemann Center features New York style theater productions, live music and touring companies featuring musicals, dance & other special performances throughout the year. This 116,900 square-foot center has received awards for its architectural design and is known as one of the leading performing arts facilities in the Metroplex.
“The Wildflower!” is an annual, city-sponsored art and music festival held in May. The festival features 6 stages of live music, a variety of strolling entertainers and acrobats, a petting zoo and pop-up shops with unique vendors that is perfect for a weekend of family-friendly fun.
Historical: Richardson’s lineage dates back to the
1840s, when settlers from Tennessee and Kentucky began arriving in the area. The town of Breckinridge was established in the modern day area near Richland College. Breckinridge was composed of a general store, a blacksmith shop and the Floyd Inn. After the Civil War, the area to the northwest of Breckinridge received a railroad route and the populous shifted. The area surrounding the railroad route and Breckinridge
was re-named to honor the railroad contractor, E.H. Richardson, who built the line from
Dallas to
Denison. Richardson was officially chartered in 1873, and it has continued its tradition of growth and
adaption by becoming Texas’ Telecom Corridor.