Plans for Proposed Austin Mass Timber Project Expand

Mass timber construction is no longer a fad. The newest construction class is catching on all of over the country. It is comprised of multiple solid wood panels nailed or glued together, which provide surprising strength and stability. It’s a strong, low-carbon alternative to concrete and steel. The tallest one is 25 stories, in Milwaukee. Previously, the largest so far announced in Texas is the Offices of Southstone in Frisco, 235,000 square feet.

That is, until now. The Related Companies has increased the planned size for its South Congress Austin office project from 107,000 to 264,000 square feet, making it the largest mass timber-built project to be built in the state. The plans call for the project to include 7-stories instead of the five originally planned, and is slated to include retail and residential. The cost of construction is pegged now at $65 million. Start date on the project is September 2023. Completion date given is February 2026. Gensler will be the design firm.