Killeen Earns Texas Downtown Award for Southern Roots Revitalization

KILLEEN, Texas (November 6, 2025) - The City of Killeen and Southern Roots Brewing Company have been honored with the Texas Downtown 2025 President's Award for Best Economic Game Changer. The award recognizes the transformation of the former Hack's Army Western Wear building in Downtown Killeen.

Texas Downtown formally honored Killeen on Tuesday, November 4, during its annual conference in Waco. This statewide recognition celebrates excellence in downtown and commercial district projects that demonstrate innovation, partnership, and measurable impact.

The mid-century building at the heart of Downtown Killeen began its life in the 1940s, serving a growing post-World War II population and symbolizing the city's early prosperity. Decades later, neglect and structural damage left it empty. Instead of allowing the landmark to be demolished, the City of Killeen purchased the property, opened a competitive redevelopment process, and created incentives to attract an investor ready to restore the site and reignite downtown growth.

Southern Roots Brewing Company, a Waco-based business known for transforming overlooked buildings into vibrant gathering places, accepted the challenge. The team restored the property from the ground up, transforming it into a thriving brewery and community hub that reenergized the Historic Downtown district.

The project sparked more than $15 million in private investment across Downtown Killeen. Property values climbed from $49 to $149 per square foot, and Placer.ai data shows the brewery now draws 10 percent of all downtown visits. The renewed activity has generated new tax revenue and inspired additional renovations, public art, and events throughout the area.

"This project restored belief in what Downtown Killeen can be," said Kate Kizito, Downtown Revitalization Director. "Southern Roots set the tone for a new era of creativity, partnership, and economic vitality."

The Best Economic Game Changer category recognizes projects that have significantly strengthened a downtown district's economy through creative partnerships, redevelopment, and incentive programs. Awards are presented in population brackets, and Killeen received top honors in the Over-50,000 Population category for cities across Texas.

To learn more about ongoing revitalization efforts in Downtown Killeen, visit www.killeentexas.gov/downtown.

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About the City of Killeen

Founded in 1882, the City of Killeen combines a charming hometown feel with vibrant cultural experiences influenced by its military heritage and diverse community. With over 160,000 residents, the city is committed to providing municipal services and facilities that meet the essential health, safety, and welfare needs of its residents while also enhancing the overall quality of life. Discover what makes Killeen special at www.killeentexas.gov.

Photo Credit: City of Killeen Downtown Revitalization.