H-E-B Expands with Sustainable Buda Store
San Antonio-based H-E-B is expanding its regional footprint with a $20 million incentive-backed project to transform a former landfill in Buda into a 135,000-square-foot flagship store, including a True Texas BBQ restaurant. The development received final approval, signaling H-E-B’s commitment to both retail growth and sustainable land use.
The Buda project is a collaboration between H-E-B, the City of Buda, the Buda Economic Development Corporation, Hays County, and the Hays County Emergency Services District No. 8. The partnership aims to transform a long-dormant landfill into a retail hub, generating jobs and increasing tax revenue. The city views this agreement as a commitment to smart growth and a brighter future for its residents. To ensure the safety of residents, all parties involved conducted thorough reviews and took extreme precautions due to the site's history as a landfill. H-E-B will invest in environmental remediation and roadway improvements to make the site safe and accessible. This includes removing approximately 20 feet of contaminated soil and replacing it with at least six feet of new soil. The Buda store will feature a True Texas BBQ restaurant, a pharmacy, and a garden center. True Texas BBQ was named the best barbecue chain in Texas by Texas Monthly in 2019 and has expanded to over 30 locations statewide. H-E-B also commits to redeveloping its existing Buda store after the new one opens. The $20.1 million incentive package, funded through sales and property tax rebates, will be distributed over 30 years. The City and Buda EDC will cover up to $12.1 million of the remediation expenses, while Hays County and the Emergency Services District will each contribute $4 million. H-E-B is expected to invest at least $70 million in the project and create at least 50 full-time jobs within the first year. H-E-B aims to incorporate sustainable design strategies in the new store. The company is part of the EPA's GreenChill Partnership and has been awarded LEED certifications for other stores. These strategies include using CO2 refrigeration units, LED lighting, native landscaping, and water-saving fixtures.
