New Braunfels, Texas, January 28, 2026
The New Braunfels City Council has approved a significant rezoning request for a new 150-room boutique hotel in the Gruene Historic District. This development, which also includes event space and a restaurant, aims to attract more tourism and support local businesses while preserving historic elements in the area. Approved with a 6-1 vote, this project is seen as a critical step in revitalizing the Gruene area and enhancing its appeal.
New Braunfels, Texas – City Council Approves Rezoning for 150-Room Boutique Hotel in Gruene Historic District
New Braunfels City Council has approved a rezoning request that paves the way for a proposed 150-room boutique hotel, event space, restaurant, and the reopening of a historic tavern in the Gruene Historic District. The council adopted the second reading of the rezoning ordinance on January 26, 2026, with a 6-1 vote; District 1 Councilmember Toni Carter voted against the motion. The approval rezones approximately six acres at 830, 832, and 870 Gruene Road from C-1A (Neighborhood Commercial) and R-3 with a Special Use Permit to C-4A (Resort Commercial), a designation aimed at lodging, tourism, visitor amenities, and mixed conference and hospitality uses.
Project Details
- Location: 830, 832, and 870 Gruene Road, New Braunfels, Texas
- Proposed Development: 150-room boutique hotel, event space, restaurant, and revitalization of the historic Tavern in the Gruene
- Rezoning Approval: Granted on January 26, 2026, by New Braunfels City Council
- Vote Outcome: 6-1, with District 1 Councilmember Toni Carter voting against
- Rezoning Details: From C-1A (Neighborhood Commercial) and R-3 with a Special Use Permit to C-4A (Resort Commercial)
Background Context
The Gruene Historic District, located along the Guadalupe River in New Braunfels, is known for its preserved 19th-century architecture and vibrant cultural scene. The proposed development aims to enhance the area’s appeal by introducing a modern hospitality venue while preserving the historic Tavern in the Gruene. The rezoning approval is a significant step toward revitalizing this section of the district, aligning with the city’s comprehensive plan and tourism economy strategies. The project will undergo further site plan reviews, traffic and drainage analyses, and compliance checks before permits are issued.
Implications for New Braunfels
The approval of this development is expected to boost tourism and local business in New Braunfels. By introducing a luxury hotel and event space in the Gruene Historic District, the city aims to attract more visitors and provide enhanced amenities for both tourists and residents. The revitalization of the historic tavern is anticipated to preserve the cultural heritage of the area while offering modern facilities. This project is part of a broader trend of hospitality investments in New Braunfels, including the renovation of the historic Faust Hotel and other lodging developments slated for completion in 2026.
FAQ
What is the New Braunfels City Council’s recent decision regarding the Gruene Historic District?
The New Braunfels City Council approved a rezoning request on January 26, 2026, for a proposed 150-room boutique hotel, event space, restaurant, and the reopening of a historic tavern in the Gruene Historic District. The approval rezones approximately six acres at 830, 832, and 870 Gruene Road from C-1A (Neighborhood Commercial) and R-3 with a Special Use Permit to C-4A (Resort Commercial), a designation aimed at lodging, tourism, visitor amenities, and mixed conference and hospitality uses.
What are the details of the proposed development in the Gruene Historic District?
The proposed development includes a 150-room boutique hotel, event space, restaurant, and the revitalization of the historic Tavern in the Gruene. The project aims to enhance the area’s appeal by introducing modern hospitality venues while preserving the historic tavern. The development is part of a broader effort to revitalize the Gruene Historic District and attract more visitors to New Braunfels.
How does this development align with New Braunfels’ urban planning and tourism strategies?
The development aligns with New Braunfels’ comprehensive plan and tourism economy strategies by promoting infill development and enhancing the city’s appeal as a tourist destination. The introduction of a luxury hotel and event space in the Gruene Historic District is expected to boost tourism and local business, providing modern amenities while preserving the area’s cultural heritage.
What are the next steps for the proposed development in the Gruene Historic District?
Following the rezoning approval, the project will undergo further site plan reviews, traffic and drainage analyses, and compliance checks before permits are issued. These steps are necessary to ensure the development meets all city regulations and standards before construction begins.
How will the development impact tourism and local businesses in New Braunfels?
The development is expected to boost tourism and local business by introducing a luxury hotel and event space in the Gruene Historic District. This addition aims to attract more visitors to New Braunfels, providing enhanced amenities for both tourists and residents, and supporting local businesses through increased foot traffic and demand for services.
Key Features of the Proposed Development
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | 830, 832, and 870 Gruene Road, New Braunfels, Texas |
| Proposed Development | 150-room boutique hotel, event space, restaurant, and revitalization of the historic Tavern in the Gruene |
| Rezoning Approval | Granted on January 26, 2026, by New Braunfels City Council |
| Vote Outcome | 6-1, with District 1 Councilmember Toni Carter voting against |
| Rezoning Details | From C-1A (Neighborhood Commercial) and R-3 with a Special Use Permit to C-4A (Resort Commercial) |
| Project Components | 150-room boutique hotel, event space, restaurant, and revitalization of the historic Tavern in the Gruene |
| Development Timeline | Further site plan reviews, traffic and drainage analyses, and compliance checks before permits are issued |
| Expected Impact | Boost tourism and local business by introducing a luxury hotel and event space in the Gruene Historic District |
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