Georgetown proposes ambitious five-year capital improvement plan for essential city projects

In a recent workshop held on May 13, 2025, the Georgetown City Council discussed a comprehensive five-year Capital Improvement Program (CIP) aimed at enhancing city facilities and services. Jennifer Bedeall, the CIP manager, presented a detailed overview of ongoing and proposed projects, emphasizing the importance of these initiatives for community development and operational efficiency.

One of the standout projects is the Customer Service Center, which has a budget of $56 million, funded by a voter-approved bond from November 2023. This facility aims to consolidate various city departments to improve collaboration and service delivery. After a year-long pause for logistical adjustments, the project is back in the design phase, with construction expected to commence in the summer of 2026.

Another significant initiative is the partnership with the YMCA, which involves a $10 million contribution from the city. This project is currently facing some delays due to conflicts with existing infrastructure but is set to begin construction in January 2026, with completion anticipated by spring 2027.

The workshop also highlighted the Fire Logistics Building, which will centralize equipment distribution and training for the fire department, funded by a $4.5 million bond. Additionally, renovations to Fire Station 1 are planned to enhance response capabilities and safety for firefighters, with a budget of $8.2 million.

Bedeall also provided updates on the Downtown Austin Avenue parking garage, which is progressing ahead of schedule and will add over 300 parking spots, equipped with a guidance system to improve user experience. The project is expected to be completed by late fall 2025.

Looking ahead, the council discussed future CIP projects, including an expansion of the existing recreation center and an animal shelter partnership with Williamson County. These projects are part of a broader strategy to address the growing needs of Georgetown's population.

In addition to the CIP discussions, Myra Cantu, the budget manager, presented a mid-year budget amendment for 2025, highlighting a reduction in capital project funding due to cost escalations. The amendment includes additional funding requests for various projects, such as the FM 971 widening and downtown sidewalk improvements.

The council also addressed the need for a multiyear budget review, focusing on the challenges of rising personnel costs and the need for sustainable revenue sources. Strategies for increasing revenue and reducing expenses were discussed, including evaluating existing fees and exploring new revenue opportunities.

Overall, the workshop underscored Georgetown's commitment to enhancing city infrastructure and services while navigating financial challenges. The council's proactive approach aims to ensure that the city can meet the demands of its growing population while maintaining a balanced budget. Future discussions will continue to refine these plans and address any unresolved issues as the city moves forward.