It is with a sense of pride that Garry Guthrie will tell you he owns one of the oldest businesses around downtown Hutto. At 15 years old, the business thrives after a road construction project nearly closed it a few years ago.

“It’s better now,” Guthrie said as he pointed toward the front of his business at 307 Farley St. “It was tough when they did road construction. But we made it.”

Guthrie, who also has a Taylor location, said the dry-cleaning business has always been a family affair. His grandfather started Guthrie Cleaners & Laundry in Austin in 1928.

Guthrie said his father still has the Austin location, operated with the help of Guthrie's sister.

After growing up in Austin and living in Round Rock, Guthrie, with his wife, Carol, moved to Hutto 20 years ago. They had two daughters graduate from Hutto ISD, and both are involved with the family business.

“My daughter [Caitlin] runs the front, and we know most of our customers,” Guthrie said. “That’s the best part of the job. I’ve seen many of my customers’ kids grow up. I enjoy talking with them. Talking about what’s going on around town.”

Guthrie said the second best part of owning a small business in Hutto is giving back to the community. In Round Rock he helped develop the Sam Bass Baseball League. In Hutto he is a member of the Hutto Economic Development Corp. board and a commissioner on the Williamson County Emergency Services District 3 board.

“It’s important to give back, and we like doing that,” Guthrie said.

Guthrie said he is encouraged by changes in Hutto, especially when it comes to development in the downtown area and the hiring of City Manager Odis Jones.

“We’re trying to change, and I think that’s good,” Guthrie said. “One problem we’ve had in attracting business is a lack of buildings. Some companies want a building already built, and we don’t have a lot of those. They like the area, and we have a lot to offer. It will get better. I’ll keep working hard.”

Guthrie Cleaners 307 Farley St., Hutto • 512-759-2511