Concerns About Highway Overpass Threaten Hutto’s Mixed-Use Development Plans

Concerns Over Highway Overpass Impact Hutto’s Mixed-Use Development Plans

Hutto, a fast-growing city located northeast of Austin, Texas, is facing hurdles in its ambitious plan to transform the Cottonwood Tract into a vibrant mixed-use development. The city has engaged Houston-based Midway Companies LLC to spearhead the project, which aims to attract big-box retailers and create an area similar to Austin’s Mueller neighborhood. However, a potential elevated highway overpass near the site has raised concerns among developers about its impact on access to the development.

Background of the Project

The 250-acre Cottonwood Tract was initially planned to be the headquarters for Perfect Game Inc., a baseball and scouting company. Following legal issues related to that project, Hutto’s Economic Development Corporation worked to reacquire the land. In April, the city entered into a memorandum of understanding with Midway to evaluate and advance the project’s development, which is scheduled to be completed in phases over several years.

During a recent City Council meeting held on September 19, officials from Midway shared insights from their evaluations and market research. They proposed a preliminary concept that includes a variety of public and private amenities intended to serve the community. However, representatives expressed significant anxiety about the proposed highway overpass at the intersection of U.S. 79 and County Road 132.

Impact of the Proposed Overpass

David Hightower, Midway’s executive vice president, indicated that the overpass could severely limit vehicle access to the upcoming development, particularly discouraging big-box retailers from considering the area: “The elevated highway intersection will hinder retail development… and it will especially hinder big-box development,” he noted. He further mentioned that preliminary discussions with potential tenants have revealed they might pull out if the overpass is constructed as currently planned.

Midway’s CEO, Bradley Freels, addressed the council, urging them to reconsider the overpass. He emphasized their commitment to creating a welcoming environment that attracts investment, which would ultimately benefit the city financially. “We want to create an environment that people want to invest in,” Freels said.

City Council’s Response

In light of these concerns, Hutto’s City Council discussed alternatives to the overpass project. They ultimately voted to postpone the current plan, suggesting further collaboration with the Texas Department of Transportation and Union Pacific Railroad to explore a new design. Hutto officials noted that they had already spent $690,000 on engineering for the overpass since it was approved last year, but the council’s action suggests they recognize the potential ramifications on local development.

Future Prospects for the Cottonwood Tract

The vision for the Cottonwood Tract goes beyond merely attracting big-box retailers. The concept plan includes not just commercial spaces but also residential options, parks, trails, and facilities for education and sports. Hightower implied that sales of certain parcels to homebuilders or potentially a hospital operator could stimulate early demand for retail space, driving traffic and tax revenue to support ongoing development.

As the project is planned to be developed in six phases, the timeline for its completion could stretch over decades. Midway’s representatives believe this allows them to adapt to market changes, ensuring the project meets the community’s needs while reflecting Hutto’s unique character. Hightower remarked, “This property is greatly located for making that happen,” reinforcing confidence in the site’s potential if navigated correctly.

Conclusion

While Hutto and Midway Companies push forward with hopes for innovative development, the fate of the highway overpass will significantly influence the project. With a focus on improving access and ensuring the community benefits, the future of the Cottonwood Tract still hangs in the balance, necessitating careful consideration by both the city and its developers as they plan for the area’s transformation.