The historic Stephenson Building off Old Fitzhugh Road in Dripping Springs will soon undergo renovations and improvements.

The gist

Dripping Springs City Council approved a construction contract at an Oct. 7 meeting. The renovated building will be used for community meetings, performances and will contain some civic offices.

According to the city’s website, the work will include:
  • Removal of hazardous materials
  • Roof replacement
  • Window restoration/replacement
  • Ceiling and wood floor restoration
  • Installation of acoustical ceiling
  • Americans with Disabilities Act accessibility
  • A new parking lot
The larger lot will have more parking capacity for the downtown area, as well as the space to host community events and markets.

By the numbers


The net contract of $4,447,200 was awarded to QA Construction. With the addition of a 10% contingency, the total contract was approved for $4.89 million.

Funding sources include:
  • 2025 debt issuance funds: $4,695,163
  • Landscape funds: $200,000
  • Total = $4,895,163
The background

The Stephenson Building was built in 1939 and operated as a high school until 1949, and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2013, according to previous reporting by Community Impact.
From 1939-1949 the Stephenson Building served as Stephenson High School. (Sienna Wight/Community Impact)
From 1939 to 1949 the Stephenson Building served as Stephenson High School. (Sienna Wight/Community Impact)
The Stephenson Building is a tax increment reinvestment zone. The goal of the TIRZs is to maintain the vitality and community character of downtown Dripping Springs.

What’s next


Once executed, the contract is expected to take 365 calendar days to complete. A notice to proceed is expected to be issued on Oct. 20.