LIBERTY HILL COMMUNITY CENTER

New Community Center Ready in 2021 It’s Official

by Ann Marie Kennon

While living in a city like Liberty Hill offers the benefits of clean air, less traffic, and great schools, the “small-town charm” is also strengthened by the power of a strong community center.

Nationwide, community centers provide an affordable and convenient place for people to exercise or play games, they create jobs and potentially host events that bring out-of-town visitors to boost local economy, and give young people an accessible and safe environment.

Fortunately, on July 27, City Council voted unanimously to move forward with renovations and additions to convert the old Williamson County Barn at 3414 RR 1869 into a new Community Activity Center for the City of Liberty Hill and its residents.

The finished building will rest on a 1.27-acre lot, include 6,000 sq.ft. of user space on one level, accommodate 217 occupants, and have landscaped outdoor space for activities. Structurally, there will be two large meeting areas, outdoor activity space, and kitchens available for participant use. The city expects construction to be completed in mid-2021.

THE NEED

Planning for the new Liberty Hill Community Center came about when council members recognized the city had a need for more gathering space. They responded to that need by purchasing the building from Williamson

County. Previously, the barn was used for storage of county road and maintenance equipment.

City officials hope and anticipate the center will quickly become a gathering and meeting place for a variety of activities. City Events Coordinator Katie Amsler explains, “We have many groups that are currently getting together in an older building in the city; they will move over to the new center when it’s complete. For starters, we look forward to having the Over-the-Hill Gang meet there for their Thursday lunch, and we are eager to host the Lions Club Fish Fry, and other annual favorites.”

In between, she says there are no current stipulations or specific parameters for usage, so all are welcome to hold book club meetings, Bible studies, support groups, art classes, and even day camps for kids. “At this stage, we anticipate a very ‘multi-purpose’ space, and are encouraging public suggestions via social media.” So far, bingo and yoga classes are getting many “Likes”, and parents are eager to have space for party rentals, creative meet-ups, and support groups.

Katie adds the architects and engineers are being creative with their mitigation plans and even using them to an advantage. “The city recognized there are some concerns about drainage behind the building. That is easily corrected with concrete, so we will likely convert that area into a small skate park and possibly add a playscape. There will truly be something for everyone.”

OPENING 2021

Katie says the City will post regular updates on Facebook at ExperienceLHTX, and, as construction progresses, they will begin considering naming options.

As the description suggests, the new center will play a vital role in the community, allowing people of all ages to gather to improve their minds, bodies, and skills, as well as foster feelings of community and civic pride.

Experts say the bonds created at community centers help build strong, safe, and inclusive communities, as well as social skills and interest in volunteerism. The Liberty Hill Community Center will be a welcome addition for all ages.