Manor's Bold P3 Plan to Forge a New Civic Heart for a Booming Suburb

MANOR, Texas – May 19, 2026 – In a decisive move to shape its future, the Manor City Council has unanimously approved a strategic roadmap that will fundamentally transform the city's civic landscape. The vote, held on May 6, clears the path for construction to begin this fall on a new City Hall, a modern Public Library, and a central Gathering Lawn, all part of the ambitious Manor Town Center project.

This transformative development will anchor an 84-acre mixed-use district along the vital US-290 corridor. The city is partnering with Hunt Real Estate & Infrastructure, which will serve as the public-private partnership (P3) developer, to bring this vision to life. The project represents a significant investment in public infrastructure designed to meet the demands of one of the fastest-growing communities in the United States.

Addressing Explosive Growth

Manor's need for such a project is not just aspirational; it's a direct response to staggering demographic shifts. Located in the booming Austin-Round Rock metropolitan area, Manor has seen its population skyrocket. Between 2014 and 2023, the city's population grew by an astonishing 185%, earning it the rank of the 6th fastest-growing city in the nation during that period. With a youthful median age of 29.3 and a diverse, growing population projected to surpass 25,000 by 2026, the city's existing infrastructure has been stretched to its limits.

This rapid expansion is a key driver behind the city's long-range planning, including its "Destination 2050 Comprehensive Plan," which aims to guide physical development and ensure the orderly management of growth. The new Town Center is a cornerstone of this strategy, intended to provide a much-needed focal point for a community that has historically lacked a centralized downtown core. Lifelong residents have noted the need for a "facelift" for the city, pointing to outdated infrastructure that has struggled to keep pace with the influx of new families and businesses.

"Adopting this roadmap is an important step for Manor," said City Manager Scott Moore in a statement following the council's vote. "The Council’s unanimous vote gives us a clear path forward and reflects support for a long-term plan to create a real civic center of activity for the community. This project will add a walkable public space, improve access to city and library services, and help meet the needs of a growing Manor."

The Power of Partnership and Expertise

The project's P3 structure allows the city to leverage private-sector efficiency and expertise for a public mission. Hunt Real Estate & Infrastructure, part of the diversified Hunt Companies, brings extensive experience in delivering complex real estate and infrastructure solutions. While known for its work in military and student housing P3s, the company's involvement underscores a growing trend of municipalities turning to such partnerships for large-scale civic projects.

"We are honored by the trust the City of Manor has placed in our team," stated Rodney Moss, Senior Vice President of P3 at Hunt Real Estate & Infrastructure. "Manor’s leadership has taken a thoughtful approach to this project, and we are committed to delivering a City Hall and Library that will serve the community for years to come."

The development team assembled for the project boasts a roster of highly acclaimed firms. The master plan was crafted by Lake|Flato, a Texas-based architectural firm celebrated for its sustainable, climate-responsive designs and whose founders recently received the prestigious 2024 AIA Gold Medal. PGAL, an international design firm, serves as the architect of record, responsible for translating the vision into detailed building plans. The construction itself will be managed by Hensel Phelps, a national leader in design-build project delivery, ensuring a streamlined process from groundbreaking to ribbon-cutting. The first phase, which includes the civic core and essential infrastructure, is slated for completion in mid-2028.

Forging a New Community Identity

Beyond the brick-and-mortar structures, the Manor Town Center project is about creating a sense of place and community. The master plan, developed collaboratively with the city and landowner Shenandoah Development Group, emphasizes walkability and accessibility. The central Gathering Lawn is envisioned as a vibrant public space for events, recreation, and informal community interaction—a true 'living room' for the city.

By co-locating the City Hall and Public Library, the project aims to create a one-stop shop for civic services, improving convenience and access for all residents. This move addresses a key goal of the city's strategic plan: to enhance the quality of life and foster deeper community engagement.

The city has committed to maintaining a high level of public involvement as the project moves forward. Plans are in place for a dedicated project website, regular community meetings, and frequent updates to keep residents informed and engaged in the detailed design and construction phases. This transparent approach is designed to build on the initial community input that helped shape the broader downtown strategic plans, ensuring the final product reflects the community's needs and aspirations.

As construction fences go up this fall, they will signify more than just the start of a new building project. For Manor, they represent the physical manifestation of a carefully laid plan to manage its explosive growth, provide for its citizens, and build a cohesive identity for generations to come. The new Town Center is positioned not just as a collection of buildings, but as the future heart of a city on the rise.