Buda EDC celebrates 25 years of strengthening local economy

In 2001, Buda residents voted to create the Buda Economic Development Corp., or Buda EDC, to strengthen the city’s economy. The organization celebrated 25 years of operation by unveiling a new city landmark.

The overview

Over the last 25 years, the Buda EDC has awarded 351 incentives, supporting more than 225 businesses, according to a news release. The organization has invested $72.6 million in the community, including $3.1 million in incentives for local offerings, such as:

• Small businesses

• Shops

• Restaurants

• Service providers

The Buda EDC has provided support to major brands, such as Cabela’s, H-E-B and US Foods. The organization provided a $36.3 million, 30-year infrastructure incentive to Cabela’s, a $20.1 million redevelopment investment to H-E-B, a $16.3 million investment in Buda Championship Park and a $4.6 million investment in city infrastructure.

Major projects with 10 or more employees supported by the Buda EDC generate $668.6 million in economic impact and more than 4,450 local jobs each year, according to an independent study by The Perryman Group.

“Twenty-five years ago, Buda residents invested in themselves and every project since has been built on that belief,” said Jennifer Storm, Buda EDC chief executive officer, in the release. “The numbers in this study are remarkable, but what I’m proudest of is what they stand for: families who found good jobs close to home, small business owners who took a chance on Buda and thrived and a downtown full of the heart and heritage that makes us unique.”

Also of note

The Buda EDC celebrated its 25th anniversary on Oct. 10. The organization unveiled its newest addition to the city: the largest wiener dog in Texas.

The 19-foot-long, 10-foot-tall steel sculpture was designed and built by public art studio Art Seen Alliance and is located in Buda City Park. The statue honors the city’s long-standing tradition of the Buda Wiener Dog Races.