C
asey Development is poised to spearhead the development of a civic center in San Marcos, just south of downtown. The project, dubbed Spring Trail Center, will be a mixed-use complex featuring a 2,500-seat arena, an 80,000-square-foot youth sports facility, and a 250-room hotel. Located at 1249 Civic Center Loop, the site was previously home to Hays County's civic center, which was demolished in 2013 due to high maintenance costs.

    County Judge Ruben Becerra is eager to fill the gap left by the old civic center, citing its popularity among locals and the need for a multi-functional space that can host large events. The new center will include an open amphitheater and conference facilities designed to meet growing demand in the Austin-San Antonio megaregion.

    Casey Development has a strong local connection, having developed high-profile properties in San Marcos, including Aspire San Marcos and Uptown Square. The company was the sole respondent to Hays County's 2022 request for proposals. With the county's population surging by nearly 80% since 2010, reaching approximately 280,000 residents last year, the need for a new civic center is clear.

    The financing model is still under discussion, but the preliminary agreement outlines a plan where Hays County will cover land development and facilities construction costs.