The Grove: A New Mixed-Use Project Planned for Kyle
Kyle, a city located about 20 miles south of Austin, is preparing for an exciting new development called The Grove. This project is led by a San Antonio-based developer and aims to transform a 99-acre area on the east side of the city. It promises to bring not only a grocery store but also much-needed affordable housing options to the community.
Details of the Development
The proposal was introduced during a Kyle City Council meeting on October 2, where representatives from Streamline Advisory Partners LLC shared their vision for the site at 1100 E. Farm to Market Road 150, also referred to as Project Sahara. The plan includes a mix of housing types: up to 400 single-family homes or townhomes, 300 market-rate multifamily units, and 350 affordable units.
Officials explained that the affordable housing will be priced at less than 60% or 50% of the region’s median family income. In addition to housing, the development will feature around 11.5 acres of parks and open space and approximately 65,000 square feet of commercial space. The standout attraction will be a 15,000-square-foot grocery store named Marigold Market & Cafe, which already has a successful location in Southwest Austin.
Community Amenities
The project is set to include a variety of amenities for residents and visitors. Plans feature 10.5 acres of parks, an indoor meeting space of 1,500 square feet, sports courts, a playground, and connections to the Vybe Trail, a citywide trail network. These amenities aim to create a family-friendly atmosphere while enhancing the area’s walkability and vibrant community feel.
Feedback and Future Steps
During the meeting, Abby Gillfillan, a principal planner with Austin-based Lionheart Places, emphasized the developers’ commitment to collaborating with city staff and stakeholders to serve community needs. She noted that the area is rapidly growing, being ranked as the second fastest-growing city of its size last year, and described the project’s phased approach. The initial phase will involve infrastructure improvements like road construction and enhancements to the wastewater system, followed by the grocery store and housing development.
During the meeting, it was highlighted that no action was taken at that time. Instead, the presentation served as a platform for gathering feedback from city council members. The developers aren’t pursuing a Chapter 380 incentives agreement but are looking into financial assistance through a public improvement district and tax increment reinvestment zone.
Importance of the Grocery Store
The local community is particularly excited about the inclusion of the grocery store. Mayor Pro Tem Robert Rizo commented on the collective enthusiasm from the council, stating, “One of the biggest things was making sure we get that grocery store. I think the entire dais was excited about the grocery store.” The grocery store will play a crucial role in the project, seen as essential for creating a vibrant neighborhood.
Looking Forward
If successful, The Grove will significantly change the landscape of Kyle, which is currently home to around 63,000 residents. Recent efforts to enhance downtown Kyle have already attracted new businesses, like a popular barbecue restaurant. The growth of this new mixed-use project marks another step in the city’s goal to develop and revitalize the area.
As plans progress, community members are looking forward to hearing more about The Grove and the positive impact it could have for families, local businesses, and the city’s future.
