by Sahar Chmais
The Buda Economic Development Commission (BEDC) is presenting ideas to expand the city’s activity and economy. Some recent projects have been completed, but the commission is already looking at new goals to continue the growth.
During her introduction to the Buda City Council, executive director Traci Anderson characterized Buda as the most dynamic business center between Austin and San Antonio. Now the BEDC’s goal is to make the city a leading destination for high growth companies, skilled and creative workers and a place for high-impact real estate development.
Throughout these changes, the BEDC wants to find ways to preserve the city’s quality of life and natural resources.
On Feb. 18, the commission presented to city council members the foundation for its five goals on economic expansion.
• Business development: target new industries such as IT and business services, medical, retail, tourism, hospitality food and beverage.
• Small business growth and entrepreneurship: small business support systems, amenities for remote workers and connection to Austin entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem.
• Organizational alignment: define BEDC’s role in Buda’s economic development for partners, engage regional workforce developments and participate in regional transportation planning discussions.
• Real estate development: office developments, industrial park and flex space development and community-wide land use analysis.
• High-impact opportunities: incorporate Baylor Scott & White in Buda Medical District, destination retail such as Costco and WholeFoods Market and destination entertainment such as Alamo Drafthouse Cinema and Topgolf.
These presentations were very well-received by city council members, with some pointing out the necessity for office space and places to hold meetings.
To help solidify their goals, the BEDC is gearing up for the International Council for Shopping Centers, a major retail conference that will help attract retailers.
Plans for growth may even expand beyond the traditional layout. The commission plans to encompass and utilize space all over Buda instead of heavily focusing on the concentrated areas such as downtown area and the Historic District.
Beside these goals, the BEDC is also working on the South Loop 4 wastewater project.
The commission also informed the council about their recently completed projects.
The Sunfield station is up and running. Expansion project for Chip Semiconductor LLC has been completed. Project Paintbrush, which revitalized old city hall for creative use, is complete. The 1898, which provided incentive for redevelopment, is now complete.
Some items are still in the works. The old dumpsite is a stagnant project at this time. Shops on Main is ongoing. Anderson explained that even though the buildings are built, the BEDC needs to assist in finding retailers to fill in the spaces. There is some consideration on whether it would be cost-effective or if there’s an available market to make it an office space development.
Another item for discussion is the hotel convention center. This project will need an executive session with the City Council for further discussion.
The 7-member board will be bringing more ideas for the City Council to find the best fit for their $2.5 million annual budget which aids in boosting the city’s economy.
