While no specific development application is on file at this time, Round Rock City Council approved a zoning request Sept. 24 for retail, office, multifamily residential and hotel uses. Director Brad Wiseman compared the zoning to Austin-area developments The Domain and The Triangle.
“It’s intended to be a pedestrian, walkable area with wide sidewalks, plazas and trails,” Wiseman said.
The land is owned by the Henna family, descendants of Billie Sue and Louis Henna Sr., both iconic figures within the city of Round Rock. Louis Henna Sr., named a Local Legend in 2011, served on Round Rock City Council and as mayor of Round Rock from 1952-1956. Billie Sue Henna was honored for her contributions and volunteerism by being named a Local Legend in 1993.
In honor of their parents, both of whom are deceased, the Henna descendants agreed to designate 7.4 acres of their land for a public park and trail easement for the future expansion of Heritage Trail. This portion of the trail will be named the Billie Sue and Louis Henna Heritage Trail and will connect Veteran’s Park to Mays Street along Brushy Creek.
“This is really the biggest segment east of Mays [Street] left, so this will be an enhancement to the Brushy Creek trail system,” Wiseman said.
At completion, the full length of the Heritage Trail will span approximately 2 miles, from Chisholm Trail Road to Georgetown Avenue. Heritage Trail is one portion of the Brushy Creek Regional Trail, which will eventually provide a pedestrian and cyclist route from Cedar Park through Round Rock.
Mayor Craig Morgan addressed the members of the Henna family in attendance at the Sept. 24 council meeting.
“Thank you so much for working with the city for this dedication,” Morgan said. “The trail system in Round Rock is really popular, and this is a very crucial part of that trail. We, as a council, greatly appreciate you working with the city on this.”
