Demolitions to parts of old Williamson County jail will make room for new development

GEORGETOWN, Texas (KXAN) — Construction crews are tearing down parts of the old, historic Williamson County Jail. The City of Georgetown and Williamson County are looking for a buyer interested in the site.

The jail was in use from 1889 to 1989. Williamson County Commissioner Valerie Covey stressed that the historical part of the jail won't be touched.

"The project is to knock down everything that's not historic," Covey said. "That includes the health district clinic. It includes the cinder block building that was in the back, and then the addition to the jail."

Covey said they're making room for something new.

"The county is actively marketing the whole block. It could be a hotel, could be restaurants."

Williamson County Commissioner Valerie Covey

The commissioner called this a great opportunity for development. Covey said it adds to the economic growth they've already seen.

"It's just grown at such a remarkable fast pace," Covey said. "We are, not only with transportation, but also with our buildings, trying to master plan what we need to do."

When it comes to the county's existing justice center and jail, Covey said they've outgrown those facilities. Commissioners will have a workshop in December to discuss expansion options for both facilities.

'Bring revenue to the area'

Papa Frank's Barbershop has been in Georgetown for more than a decade. Owner Nik Shanklin was born and raised in that area.

"This is what would be considered central Georgetown," Shanklin said. "My neighborhood's only a few blocks from here."

Across the street from his shop is the old jail.

"Jail's always been there since as long as I can remember."

Nik Shanklin, Papa Frank's Barbershop Owner

Shanklin has a front-row seat to the project. Ultimately, he hopes whatever comes to the area will benefit businesses there.

"What would I like to see there? I guess any big business may bring business to some of us smaller guys, which is a good thing," Shanklin said. "Help bring revenue to the area."