Taylor’s biggest event venue has completed some upgrades, and more are on the way.
On Thursday, Feb. 11, Williamson County Precinct 4 Commissioner Russ Boles hosted a ribbon cutting and groundbreaking for improvements to the Williamson County Expo Center. The projects are mostly funded by 2019 park bonds and 2021 capital improvement project funds.
“Support for the city of Taylor has been amazing,” said Boles. “They have been a partner all the way with this. We often talk with them about what kind of events they would like to see and we have a good dialogue with the city, so they’re true partners as well.”
A ribbon cutting marked the completion of a new 200-foot by 500-foot south tarmac. The multi-purpose space will be used for both parking and event space. It includes a new concrete sidewalk and walkway. The walkway should improve access between facilities and make it accessible through the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Future arena improvements were kicked off by the groundbreaking ceremony. The county plans to extend the area to 125 feet by 300 feet to better serve event holders and enhance overall safety by adding more space. Box seating will be increased by approximately 250 seats.
“Today, we celebrated another great enhancement to the Expo Center with the widening of the arena and addition of boxed seating,” said Expo Center General Manager Jason Brown.
In addition, the roof over the breezeway that collapsed during the winter storm last February will be replaced. The replacement will be paid with an insurance claim.
“It was an exciting day for the Expo Center,” said Russell Fishbeck, Williamson County parks senior director. “This facility is growing in popularity and the demand for use is steadily increasing
The design for both projects was done by Parkhill. Chasco Constructors was awarded Construction Manager for the projects for a maximum price of $2,009,747. With the exception of the roof replacement, park and capital improvement project funds will fulfill costs of the projects.
