Exciting Changes on the Horizon for Georgetown as Historic Jail Site Closes Chapter
In the charming city of Georgetown, Texas, change is in the air! Construction crews are hard at work, demolishing parts of the old, historic Williamson County Jail. This site, which has seen quite a bit of action since its opening way back in 1889, is now looking for a new story to tell. The City of Georgetown and Williamson County are teaming up to find a buyer who might be interested in transforming this historic landmark into something fresh and exciting.
A Respectful Approach to History
As the wrecking balls swing, rest assured that the city has plans to keep the heart of the jail intact. Williamson County Commissioner Valerie Covey has made it clear that the historic portions of the jail will remain untouched. “The project is to knock down everything that’s not historic,” Covey explained. This means that buildings like the old health district clinic and newer additions to the jail are set for demolition, while the historic structure will be preserved for future generations to appreciate.
So, what’s next for this prime piece of real estate? Covey shared, “The county is actively marketing the whole block. It could be a hotel, could be restaurants.” This initiative is part of a larger effort to increase economic growth and bring new life to the area, an exciting prospect for locals.
Economic Growth in Full Swing
It’s no secret that Georgetown has been booming. Covey remarked, “It’s just grown at such a remarkable fast pace.” With the rise in population and new businesses popping up, the city is busy trying to master plan its next moves. Expanding the existing justice center and jail facilities is on the agenda, as commissioners will hold a workshop in December to discuss what the future holds in that department.
Local businesses are taking note of these changes too. Papa Frank’s Barbershop, a beloved establishment in Georgetown for over a decade, has a front-row seat to the transformation. Owner Nik Shanklin, a Georgetown native, expressed his hopes for the future of the area. “What would I like to see there? I guess any big business may bring business to some of us smaller guys, which is a good thing,” he said. Shanklin is excited about the potential influx of visitors and customers that new attractions might bring, which would undoubtedly boost revenue for local shops.
The Community Roots Run Deep
The historic jail has been a part of Georgetown for longer than many can remember, and for folks like Shanklin, its presence is a piece of their childhood. “The jail’s always been there since as long as I can remember,” he reminisced. With such history, it’s no surprise that many residents are hopeful that the upcoming developments will honor Georgetown’s rich past while paving the way for a vibrant future.
Looking Ahead
As construction continues at the old Williamson County Jail site, the community is buzzing with speculation and excitement. Could we see a trendy new hotel or a delicious array of restaurants springing up? Only time will tell! But one thing’s for sure: Georgetown is gearing up for change, and it looks like it will be a thrilling ride for everyone involved.
Stay tuned as we keep you updated on all the latest developments in this wonderful city. It’s an exciting time for Georgetown as it embraces its rich history while stepping boldly into the future!
