New Braunfels, Texas, December 11, 2025
The New Braunfels City Council has approved the rezoning of a 72-acre property for the expansion of Walmart’s distribution center, enhancing its logistics operations. This expansion aims to increase distribution capacity and improve efficiency, while also creating additional jobs in the local area.
New Braunfels Approves Rezoning for Walmart Distribution Center Expansion
New Braunfels, Texas – The New Braunfels City Council has approved the rezoning of a 72.097-acre property east of the Walmart Distribution Center, facilitating the expansion of the regional hub. This decision, made during the council’s regular meeting on December 8, 2025, marks a significant step in Walmart’s plans to enhance its distribution and transportation complex in the area.
Details of the Expansion
The rezoned property, owned by the Frederick Frueholz, Jr. Estate, is situated between I-35 and FM 1101. Walmart Stores East, a subsidiary of Walmart Inc., requested the change from Agricultural to Light Industrial zoning. This adjustment supports a multimillion-dollar investment aimed at expanding the existing distribution center, which has been operational since 1988 and currently spans over 1 million square feet. The expansion is expected to increase distribution capacity, incorporate advanced logistics technology, and improve truck and trailer operations. While specific timelines and costs have not been disclosed, the project will undergo further permitting stages, including traffic studies and compliance with airport-overlay regulations.
Economic Impact and Community Benefits
The New Braunfels distribution center is one of Walmart’s earliest hubs, employing over 1,100 workers with an average hourly wage of $27. It supplies more than 100 Walmart stores across Central, South, and Southwest Texas, including areas as far as Houston, the Rio Grande Valley, and Midland-Odessa. The facility also plays a crucial role during emergencies, serving as a staging point for essential goods during regional disasters. The expansion is anticipated to create additional job opportunities and contribute to the local economy.
Background Context
Walmart has a history of investing in its New Braunfels facility. In 2024, the company invested $20 million to modernize the existing center, incorporating robotics and equipment upgrades to enhance efficiency and meet growing customer expectations for rapid delivery. The recent rezoning approval is part of Walmart’s ongoing efforts to maintain a competitive edge in the retail distribution sector.
Next Steps
With the rezoning approval, Walmart will proceed with the acquisition of the 72-acre tract and begin the expansion process. The project will involve detailed planning, permitting, and construction phases, with updates provided to the community as progress continues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of the rezoning approval?
The rezoning approval allows Walmart to expand its New Braunfels distribution center, enhancing distribution capacity and incorporating advanced logistics technology.
How many employees does the New Braunfels distribution center currently have?
The facility employs over 1,100 workers with an average hourly wage of $27.
What areas does the New Braunfels distribution center serve?
The center supplies more than 100 Walmart stores across Central, South, and Southwest Texas, including Houston, the Rio Grande Valley, and Midland-Odessa.
What recent investments has Walmart made in the New Braunfels facility?
In 2024, Walmart invested $20 million to modernize the existing center, incorporating robotics and equipment upgrades to enhance efficiency and meet growing customer expectations for rapid delivery.
What are the next steps following the rezoning approval?
Walmart will proceed with the acquisition of the 72-acre tract and begin the expansion process, involving detailed planning, permitting, and construction phases, with updates provided to the community as progress continues.
Key Features of the Walmart Distribution Center Expansion
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 72.097-acre property east of the existing Walmart Distribution Center in New Braunfels, Texas |
| Zoning Change | Rezoned from Agricultural to Light Industrial to facilitate expansion |
| Current Facility Size | Over 1 million square feet |
| Employment | Over 1,100 workers with an average hourly wage of $27 |
| Service Area | More than 100 Walmart stores across Central, South, and Southwest Texas, including Houston, the Rio Grande Valley, and Midland-Odessa |
| Recent Investment | $20 million invested in 2024 for modernization, including robotics and equipment upgrades |
| Expansion Goals | Increase distribution capacity, incorporate advanced logistics technology, and improve truck and trailer operations |
| Next Steps | Proceed with acquisition of the 72-acre tract and begin expansion process, including planning, permitting, and construction phases |
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