Buda’s H-E-B Supermarket Set for a Major Upgrade!
Exciting news for shoppers in Buda! San Antonio-based grocery giant, H-E-B LP, seems to be preparing to replace its existing store with a much larger and modern facility right across the street. Yes, you heard it right! H-E-B is not just expanding; it’s going BIG in the Austin suburbs!
According to the latest reports, the new grocery store will sprout up on a sprawling 21-acre property at 15000 N. I-35. This new location is set to feature a whopping 135,000-square-foot facility, which will not only include a drive-thru restaurant but also a pharmacy and a garden center. Talk about convenience! Can we get a round of applause for H-E-B’s continuous effort to make our grocery shopping experience better?
A Closer Look at the Current Store
The current H-E-B store, which has been a staple for residents, sits at 15300 S. I-35 Frontage Road and has been around since the year 2000. This 61,500-square-foot establishment has been serving the community nicely since it opened, backed by a hefty investment of over $10 million. However, it appears H-E-B is ready to step things up even more!
What’s Next for Buda?
During a meeting on November 12, the Buda Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed H-E-B’s plans, which indicate that the switch to the new location is intended to happen in 2026. Though the grocer has yet to secure ownership of this new land—formerly a landfill—the plans remain quite ambitious. H-E-B is requesting a change in zoning to handle the unique challenges posed by the land’s past.
Land Cleanup and Community Impact
Now, here’s where it gets a bit tricky. The site needs some serious work due to its previous use as a landfill. Workers will have to dig down 20 feet to remove contaminated soil, a task that is not only labor-intensive but also costly. But wait—there’s more! H-E-B is proposing to enhance the area by landscaping around the property, albeit not within the parking space, to make it more visually appealing.
During the meeting, it was also mentioned that H-E-B anticipates spending over $1 million on traffic improvements related to the expansion. This includes a proposal for the company to cover approximately $480,900 of those costs, meaning the city might need to find funds for the remaining $573,000. Sounds like Buda is definitely on the rise, but there are bills to pay!
Moving Forward
Buda officials have acknowledged how this expansion could boost property and sales tax revenue while simultaneously providing much-needed amenities to the community. However, they’re also mindful of the associated costs, particularly regarding traffic enhancements as the city grows.
As for the next steps, the zoning request has been recommended by the commission with a vote of 5-1, indicating general support but also some concerns. The city council is scheduled to discuss this on December 3rd, so mark your calendars, folks!
H-E-B’s Ongoing Expansion
It’s clear that H-E-B is not slowing down anytime soon. The grocery store recently opened a new location in Pflugerville, working on renovations worth $13 million in Round Rock, and even laying the groundwork for a new store in San Marcos. There’s also excitement brewing with plans for additional H-E-B stores in South Congress and Manor. One can only imagine how the local community will change with all this growth!
Wrapping It Up
If you’re a fan of H-E-B or just love the idea of more shopping options nearby, then this news is something to celebrate! As Buda continues to grow, it opens the door to even more conveniences for residents. So keep your eyes peeled for further developments as they unfold!
