Kyle — one of the fastest-growing cities in the country — is seeking proposals to design, construct and operate a hotel and convention center in the suburb about 20 miles south of Austin.
Officials on Nov. 18 announced a request for proposal for the project that would be situated on four acres of creek-front property within what's being called Kyle's Lake Park District. That development is slated to include a seven-story St. David's HealthCare hospital, offices, retail space, more than 2,000 residential units and a public park between Kyle Parkway and Kohler's Crossing on the north side of the city.
Kyle, the second fastest growing city in the country, with a population of about 62,500, is seeking developers to "create a top-tier destination that will serve as a hub for business, leisure and regional gatherings," according to an announcement. The facility also would have convenient connectivity to Austin and San Antonio along I-35.
The city is using a two-step process to select a development partner. Interest parties must first respond to the RFP by Dec. 20 at 3 p.m. Top candidates will then be invited to participate in a second phase, which requires more detailed proposals. Questions are due by Dec. 6 at 5 p.m. The city said it is prepared to offer the land through a long-term lease for a nominal fee or transfer it as part of a creative economic partnership.
“The Lake Park District Hotel and Convention Center will not only provide an exceptional venue for business and leisure travelers but will also bolster Kyle’s economic development efforts and bring new opportunities to the community,” Victoria Vargas, Kyle's director of economic development, said in a statement. “This is a key step in creating a destination that reflects our city’s natural beauty, dynamic growth, and forward-thinking spirit.”
It marks the continued effort of city officials to mature Kyle's booming growth. Building out downtown has been a priority of the city, which has attracted a popular barbecue restaurant and a big mixed-use project east of downtown. Big master-planned and mixed-use sites are popping up in every direction of the city to build more senses of place.
Earlier this month, Kyle issued a similar request for proposals for a restaurant operator to infill a roughly 1-acre, city-owned pad site in the city's Brick and Mortar District. Submissions on that project are due by 3 p.m. Dec. 6.
Kyle's Brick and Mortar District is nestled at the intersection of Farm to Market Road 1626 and Kohlers Crossing — an area booming with projects, such as a retail center anchored by Sprouts Farmers Market that has an additional 18,000 square feet for other retail tenants.