A historic train depot in Buda is set for a new chapter as city leaders and developers move forward with plans to transform the 19th-century structure into a retail incubator and community gathering space in the heart of downtown.
The project, called The Depot on Main, is a partnership between the St. Louis-based Lawrence Group and Dripping Springs-based Logic Builders Group. Together the developers will transform the city's original railroad depot into a marketplace aimed at supporting small businesses and local artisans.
The depot was originally built in the late 1800s and served travelers until 1961. It was moved off-site in the early 1980s to a piece of private land between San Marcos and New Braunfels. In November 2025, the structure was relocated back to downtown Buda near the city's greenbelt at 319 Main St., where renovation work is now underway.
Retail suites, event space planned
Plans for the roughly 2,000-square-foot building include small retail suites for startup businesses, a marketplace featuring locally made products and flexible space for entrepreneurs testing new concepts.
Mayor Lee Urbanovsky described the redevelopment as both a preservation effort and an investment in the city's future.
“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to bring a piece of our history home and reimagine it as part of Buda’s future. The Train Depot will be a centerpiece in downtown for community gathering and connection.” - Mayor Lee Urbanovsky
Developers said much of the depot's historic character will remain intact. Crews plan to preserve original features including wood floors, stained glass, lantern-style lighting, bead walls, arched shelving and the depot's ticket counter. The roof, windows and doors will be replaced because of deterioration, but designers said the overall appearance will still reflect the building's original era.
Park redesign planned around depot
The surrounding park is also being redesigned to accommodate community events and encourage more use by the public. Current plans include a central lawn for festivals and concerts, an elevated performance stage, additional seating areas and festoon lighting. The design will incorporate native Texas plants and existing oak trees on the property.
The area will also receive parking upgrades, improved pedestrian access and a protective fence along the train tracks nearby.
Buda City Council approved the project in March, allowing developers to move forward with phased construction. Portions of the plaza could open by December 2026, while the full renovation is expected to be completed by early 2027.