The Cedar Park Public Library was recognized by Urban Land Institute Austin at the 2025 Impact Awards as the Best Public Place on Aug. 27. The award recognizes a completed development that gives the public an enhanced experience or space. Other finalists for the award include EastVillage, Pathways at Chalmers Courts and Rainey Street Trailhead.

Quote of note

“Cedar Park’s library is a perfect example of how you can bring that new innovative energy from the urban core out to the suburban area,” Rudy Metayer, ULI Austin juror and Pflugerville city council member, said. “Flat out, it is amazing to see what the new library has done to reinvigorate the energy, not only just of the library itself, but around the surrounding areas.”

The background

The new 47,000 square foot library opened in November 2024 and includes indoor and outdoor kids play areas, a makers space, computers and internet access, according to previous Community Impact reporting. The library is part of the Bell District, a mixed-use development that will include places for people to live, dine and connect upon completion. The Bell District is a partnership between RedLeaf, a development firm, and the city of Cedar Park.


“It's part WeWork, it's part library, it's part children's museum, part community center,” said Ryan McCulloch, vice president of development at RedLeaf Properties.

The Cedar Park Public Library reached 500,000 visitors in August, McCulloch said, which exceeded the city and Redleaf’s expectations about utilization.