In 2008, the city contracted with Drury University and the University of Missouri Extension to do a study of Webb City to project future needs and to project a vision for the community.

Highlights of that study are:

1. Organize a downtown group with a paid director to promote downtown activities and
revitalize the historic downtown.
2. Establish a Historic District and rules for the buildings within the district.
3. Encourage development so that residents may work, dine and play without having to
leave the city.
4. Improve trails and parks.
5. Capitalize on the Route 66 heritage.

As a result of this study, the city was named a Missouri Dream City in 2008.  Under Dream City guidelines, consultants have undertaken a 3 year program to assist in implementing suggestions from the Drury study.
All but one of the above goals has been achieved. That is the organization of the downtown group with a director. That should be achieved in the fall of 2010. The housing for the director will be in the newly remodeled Route 66 Information Center at 66 W. Broadway. That center will open in August 2010 and will also house the Webb City Chamber of Commerce as well as Route 66 exhibits and murals painted by Mayor John Biggs.