Could the Texas Hill Country get any more charming? According to one Texas-based developer, it certainly can — and it’s investing $7 million into the area to make it happen.
State records reveal that Karnes County National Bank, now Gruene Bank 1901, is planning an expansive mixed-use development project at 2009 FM 306 New Braunfels, located on a sprawling stretch of land just outside of Gruene. The historic Texas business, which first opened its doors in February 1901 in Karnes City, is “branching out, bringing 125 years of banking to communities throughout South and Central Texas,” developers told the Express-News.
The new construction project will span across a total of 16,265 square-feet, records show. In addition to a new bank office building with a drive-in service area, developers are introducing a fresh tap house and beer garden to the scene — complete with pickle ball courts and an outdoor live music venue, where patrons can either practice their pickle ball swing or sit back and relax with a brew and some tunes.
According to Beaty Palmer Architects, the San Antonio-based firm partnering with developers to bring the project to life, the new tap house coming to the Texas Hill Country is called Fast Friends Beer Co. It’s an Austin-born business that says it’s “part oasis, part retreat,” and pours everything from ciders and wines to seltzers and slushies.
“Gruene Bank 1901 helped Fast Friends Brewing Co. launch their business,” developers said in a statement to the Express-News, noting that they “both align in community values and philanthropy” by “supporting causes like veteran PTSD programs and Uplift Youth Mentorship.”
Additionally, if Beaty Palmer Architects sounds familiar, that’s likely because the firm has already completed several community and commercial projects within the Alamo City. That includes the pup-friendly Hops & Hounds beer garden on 1123 Avenue B, the SA Yacht Club on 310 W. Grayson, as well as several hospitality spots along the River Walk.
“Our vision is to create a relaxing, neighborly space where you can meet with your banker in the morning, play pickleball in the afternoon and grab a drink with friends in the evening,” said Gruene Bank 1901 President Alec Alexander.
Alexander assured Gruene residents that despite the updates, the small Texas town would still maintain its historic charm: “There is not a dance hall in our project, and nothing can ever compete with the (iconic) Gruene Hall,” he said. “It has no rivals.”
“We have tremendous respect for what the Gruene Historic District represents and are excited to contribute to the vibrant future of this beloved area,” Gruene Bank 1901 Chief Banking Officer Robert Funk added.
Construction is set to begin in June this year at 2009 FM 306 New Braunfels, with a projected completion date slated for July 2027.