In 1995 most people who didn't live in the immediate area couldn't tell you where the intersection of FM 967 and FM 1626 was, let alone the fact that it would eventually draw the interest of developers from across the United States.

In response to the City of Buda Comprehensive Plan 2002-2012, the Buda Economic Development Corporation purchased 98 acres along the northwest corner of this intersection with a plan to implement the community's desire for additional parks and indoor/outdoor recreation opportunities.

Over the course of several years, the Buda Sportsplex concept was developed and successfully funded. Construction started in 2006 and was barely visible. In fact, this massive project included much more than what is currently seen at Buda Sportsplex Drive. Water and wastewater lines were extended 8,000 feet to serve the Sportsplex. These utilities spurred the development of future neighborhoods along FM 967.

As part of the development process the Buda EDC donated 15 acres to the Austin YMCA for the creation of the Hays Community YMCA. As the Sportsplex began to develop so did the area surrounding it, 7.5 acres of the original 98 had been set aside specifically for commercial tracts.

These tracts eventually became home to small developments that are currently home to a wide variety of businesses. The development of the complex continued and in partnership Hays CISD, Buda Sportsplex Drive was widened to serve both the complex and the school. Land was also donated to allow for the Buda Fire Station to locate at the entrance, which was vital to serving the residents moving into the neighborhoods that were quickly developing along FM 967 and FM 1626.

In 2008 when the Sportsplex was completed with 4 youth softball fields and 4 full size recreation fields, the evolution of FM 967/FM1626 was just beginning. Over the next few years, new retail centers including the recently finished 14,000 Buda Sportsplex Building would be constructed; bringing new businesses such as Proof and Beijing Bistro to Buda.

As residential growth continued to grow around this intersection, additional retailers and developers took an interest in locating in this area. Hays County and TXDOT even invested in improving the roadways. Eventually, the market demand attracted the attention of a Connecticut-based developer, who bought the southwest corner with a plan to develop a retail tract that includes the CVS currently under construction. A portion of this tract recently sold to a Louisiana-based developer who was drawn to this corner by the current and future potential.

Over the course of 10 years, the intersection of FM 967/FM 1626 has evolved significantly; with additional tracts of land in the area on the market, the potential for this area has yet to be realized. The Buda EDC is excited to have played an initial part in the development of this area and we look forward to the continued development of this area.

**Photos from Google Earth