Tensions have risen in Hutto after the city’s Economic Development Corporation (EDC) voted unanimously to end negotiations with Houston-based developer Midway over a $250 million mixed-use project for the 250-acre Cottonwood tract.
Midway CEO and Chairman Bradley Freels criticized city officials, citing shifting requirements and a lack of transparency. “Midway fully embraced Hutto’s Vision for the Cottonwood development, aiming to create an urban, walkable environment that caters to the existing suburban community while transitioning to higher land density and attracting a diverse workforce,” Freels said in a letter addressed to city leaders.
Midway had been selected in December 2023 to redevelop the site at Highway 79 and County Road 132 into retail, residential, office, and parkland spaces—a project intended as a signature destination similar to Austin’s Mueller district. The plan called for a six-phase buildout spanning several decades in Hutto, which is about 30 miles northeast of Austin.
The collapse of the deal has led both sides to assign blame. Mayor Mike Snyder, who also serves on the EDC board, stated that negotiations were ended due to what he described as “lack of progress.” In a Facebook post, Snyder accused Midway of threatening legal action by bringing concerns to the Texas Attorney General’s office and questioned some of Midway’s business partnerships. “When a developer comes into Hutto, they need to do what’s right by Hutto,” Snyder wrote.
Freels responded by saying delays were caused by issues beyond Midway’s control. He pointed out that construction was stalled for nearly a year due to plans for a highway overpass and that utility access would not be available until at least 2028. Freels also alleged that Mayor Snyder contacted potential tenants directly, which he claimed undermined ongoing negotiations and violated an existing memorandum of understanding between Midway and the city.
This dispute follows earlier setbacks involving redevelopment efforts at Cottonwood. Previously, baseball scouting company Perfect Game had planned its headquarters there before withdrawing from the deal.
As Hutto seeks new proposals for the property, EDC Chair Don Carlson indicated future plans will emphasize retail and commercial projects aligned with community needs. The decision leaves one of Central Texas’ largest undeveloped sites without direction as population growth continues in response to regional developments such as Samsung’s $17 billion chip plant in nearby Taylor.
