Mayor Lee Urbanovsky discusses downtown revitalization, a predictable development process and long-term planning on The Building Texas Show
BUDA, Texas — November 9, 2026 — Downtown revitalization, infrastructure improvements and collaboration among local economic development partners are helping Buda, Texas, strengthen its appeal as a place to live, visit and do business.
In a recent episode of The Building Texas Show, Buda Mayor Lee Urbanovsky joined host Justin McKenzie to discuss how the community between Austin and San Marcos is managing growth while planning for its long-term needs.
The conversation highlights a downtown that has evolved from a quiet evening streetscape into a busy weekend destination, alongside investments in roads, parks and recreational facilities.
Predictable Development Process Supports Buda’s Growth
Urbanovsky, whose professional background includes development and construction, emphasized consistency as a priority for the city’s development process.
“We can do it slow if we have to, but we need to be consistent and predictable,” he said.
That approach guides a broader planning strategy focused on preparing for growth decades ahead. For businesses and developers evaluating a community, a predictable process can help clarify expectations as projects move forward.
Urbanovsky first ran for City Council in 2016 and was elected mayor in 2020. A Buda resident for more than 25 years, he brings both a professional and personal perspective to the city’s changing development needs.
Downtown Buda Revitalization Reflects Business Partnerships
Urbanovsky recalled a time when downtown Buda had little activity after the evening commute. Today, Main Street attracts residents and visitors on Friday and Saturday nights.
He credited cooperation among the Buda City Council, Greater Buda Chamber of Commerce and Buda Economic Development Corporation with helping build that momentum.
According to Urbanovsky, those partnerships strengthened during the COVID-19 pandemic as the city worked to support small businesses. Continued collaboration has helped connect the business community and support downtown activity.
The discussion also recognized Greater Buda Chamber of Commerce CEO and City Council member Monica Davidson and Buda EDC CEO Jennifer Storm for their contributions to those efforts.
Road Projects Could Support a Second Downtown Corridor
Infrastructure projects funded through Buda’s 2021 bond program are another component of the city’s growth strategy.
The episode highlights improvements involving Goforth Road, Old Black Colony Road and Austin Street. Running parallel to Main Street, Austin Street could develop into a second downtown corridor as the community grows.
The projects reflect Buda’s efforts to address transportation needs while preparing for future development.
Parks and Sports Facilities Expand Community Amenities
Urbanovsky also discussed investments in outdoor recreation and sports facilities that contribute to Buda’s quality of life.
Garison Park, on land the mayor said the city purchased in 2016, will expand public access to Onion Creek.
Buda Championship Park, formerly known as the Sportsplex, has expanded to eight softball fields with grandstands and turf improvements. The facility hosted a soft-opening event associated with the Pony World Series.
The conversation also highlighted live music at the Buda Amphitheater & City Park, including September’s Railcar Revival music festival. Together, these amenities support recreation, community events and opportunities to attract visitors.
Community Participation Shapes Long-Term Planning
Urbanovsky encouraged residents to participate in Buda’s future by connecting with the EDC, the chamber or city leadership.
The episode presents Buda’s downtown progress as the result of sustained planning, infrastructure investment and cooperation among public officials and business organizations.
The full conversation is available through The Building Texas Show and its YouTube channel.
About The Building Texas Show
Hosted by Justin McKenzie, The Building Texas Show features the people, businesses and projects shaping communities across Texas. Topics include economic development, small business, conservation and education. New episodes are released weekly on YouTube and major podcast platforms.
