A LOOK BACK
High-tech meets high-value in data center
The year 2024 saw booming high-tech growth while residents still observed rural traditions such as rodeos, with a blending of the old and new mapping a course for the future of eastern Williamson County.
Among those projects for the days ahead is the $500 million Project Raptor data center, set for Hutto’s west side, which will combine cutting-edge technology with innovative, human-centric design, officials said.
Expected to generate significant tax revenue with minimal infrastructure impact, the facility will feature energy-efficient cooling, advanced noise mitigation and a “sleek, inviting façade,” planners said.
Construction begins in January 2026.
Taylor mayor makes first trip to South Korea
Taylor’s new Mayor Dwayne Ariola visited South Korea to strengthen ties and support the city’s growth, focusing on Samsung Austin Semiconductor — which is owned by South Korean multinational Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. — and attracting new business to the Gradient Technology Park.
Highlights included meetings with Samsung executives, addressing supplier concerns about the $17 billion semiconductor facility and discussions with firms such as Soulbrain, which is investing $600 million in Taylor and Central Texas.
Motion Hitech affirmed its plans to locate in Taylor, bringing additional companies, jobs and investments. The trip also celebrated a friendship agreement with Yongin Special City and showcased Taylor’s appeal as a business-friendly hub poised for sustained economic growth.
UT-Austin coming to Taylor
The University of Texas at Austin is establishing the UT Austin– Taylor Center on 68 acres donated by the Temple College at Taylor Foundation. Located near Samsung’s $17 billion chip-fabrication facility on the city’s southwest side, the center will focus on semiconductor research, education and workforce development. Officials said it aligns with UT’s Texas Institute for Electronics, or TIE, initiatives, supported by $552 million in state funding.
Then-Taylor Mayor Brandt Rydell hailed the project as a driver of education and growth.
UT President Jay Hartzell emphasized its potential to expand the region’s semiconductor ecosystem.
Williamson County breaks ground on Expo Center Williamson County has started construction on the Williamson County Expo Center West Arena at 5350 Bill Pickett Trail in Taylor. Funded through the 2023 WilCo Parks Bond, the $10.7 million project will feature a 175-foot-by-450-foot covered arena, showers, restrooms, two picnic pavilions and expanded gravel parking.
Designed by Parkhill and built by Bartlett Cocke General Contractors, the facility aims to support agriculture and livestock events, enhance existing Expo Center activities, and provide amenities for the recreationalvehicle park.
Officials emphasized its role in preserving the county’s agricultural heritage and fostering community growth.
Construction is expected to be completed within 12 months.
New sheriff elected, incumbents win local races
Williamson County voters selected a new sheriff and four incumbent candidates kept their respective seats in the Nov. 5 general election. Republican Matthew Lindemann got the nod as the county’s top lawman, unseating Democrat incumbent Mike Gleason.
Hutto breaks ground on high-tech wastewater project Hutto officials celebrated the groundbreaking of the $180 million South Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion, set to boost capacity from 2.6 to 6 million gallons per day. The advanced facility, designed by Garver USA and built by Archer Western Contractors, incorporates Type 1 reuse technology for irrigation and fire protection, reducing potable water demand. It also includes features to protect local watersheds and support sustainable growth. Expected to be completed by December 2026, the project aims to meet the city’s growing needs, drive economic development and employ 150-200 workers at peak construction.
Officials called it a milestone for Hutto’s future.
Taylor Rodeo ropes in crowds, tons of fun
The 74th annual Taylor Rodeo, held July 18-20 at the Williamson County Expo Center, was deemed a huge success with recordbreaking crowds and exciting events.
Organized by the Taylor Rodeo Association, the event featured the First Responder Wild Steer Saddling Championship, live-music performances from Kenny Ort & No Chance and Terry Hughes & the Debonaires, and the popular mutton bustin’ event with over 160 young participants.
A new rodeo queen, Kaylee Hoyt, was crowned during the festivities. In addition, the association awarded 10 $5,000 scholarships to students from Williamson, Lee and Milam counties. The event dates back to the 1950s.
County approves funds for Jester annex
Williamson County commissioners approved $2 million for improvements to the Williamson County Jester Annex in Round Rock to ease traffic flow at the busy facility. They also voted to rename a roadway in honor of a South Korean sister city, reflecting ties to Samsung suppliers, and addressed enhancements to local tennis operations following complaints from league members.
Samsung getting $6 billion federal grant Samsung is set to receive a $6 billion U.S. grant under the CHIPS Act to expand semiconductor manufacturing, Bloomberg reported.
The funds may support projects in Taylor or Austin, where Samsung has tax deals for future expansions. Texas also launched its own $1.4 billion CHIPS initiative to strengthen the industry.
By leveraging federal and state investments, Samsung and the region are poised to drive semiconductor innovation and economic growth, officials said.
The federal CHIPS Act funding aligns with broader efforts to secure supply chains and maintain U.S. leadership in advanced technology, they added.
