Real Estate Photographer in Hutto, TX

City leaders said the problem stems from increased water pressure stirring up natural iron deposits in the system but maintained the water was safe to drink.

HUTTO, Texas — After days of discolored water coming from their taps, Hutto residents are expressing frustration.

City leaders say the problem stems from increased water pressure stirring up natural iron deposits in the system but maintain the water was safe to drink. Still, some residents remain skeptical.

Nicole Ramirez, who has lived in Hutto for three years, said the water quality in her neighborhood has fluctuated before, but nothing like what she experienced this week.

“Today, we’re seeing a lot clearer, but yet it still has yellow and you can also feel the rust as well,” Ramirez told KVUE.

She said it started on Friday and only got worse in the days that followed.

"Sunday, I came home from camping and I wanted to take a clean bath,” Ramirez said. “And it was brown even before I got in there, and I could not take a clean shower.”

Ramirez said she does not feel comfortable drinking the water and she believes the city’s response was delayed, which only heightened her concerns.

Abby Fenton, the communications manager for the city of Hutto, acknowledged the frustration and said the city did not anticipate a significant impact on customers.

“Once we realized that it was more widespread and affecting a large number of customers, that's when we put out public communication,” Fenton said. “We recognize that residents expect better and expect us to be more proactive with our communication, and we’re committed to doing that better in the future.”

As crews continue flushing the system, the Hutto City Council has approved funding for citywide water testing. Fenton said the goal is to ensure residents receive water that is not only safe, but also clear and odor?free.

Public Works teams are now responding to individual reports. City officials are urging anyone still experiencing issues to file a report so crews can address specific problem areas.

More Parking Coming to Old Town

We’re excited to share big improvements for Old Town!

To make visiting easier, safer, and more convenient, the City is implementing a phased master plan to improve circulation and operations in the downtown area. A key component of this plan includes converting select streets to one-way operation, which will streamline traffic flow, reduce conflicts, and better support local businesses and visitors.

As part of this effort, the City is also expanding parking by increasing available spaces from approximately 141 to more than 400.

Phase 1: East Street

East Street is the first area to see improvements. As part of this work, East Street will shift to one?way northbound to support safer and more efficient traffic flow.

The Old Town Parking Improvement Plan is organized into three major phases, with each phase corresponding to a specific street. Phase 1 focuses on East Street, which will become one?way northbound as part of the current construction effort. Phase 2 will address Main Street, where the planned configuration is one?way southbound. Phase 3 will address West Street, which is planned to become one?way northbound. Once all phases are complete, parking availability in Old Town will increase from approximately 141 spaces to more than 400.

Timeline

Crews are expected to begin updating signage and restriping East Street on February 17, 2026. The transition to one?way operations will begin on March 5. The Main Street and West Street phases will occur later, and additional information will be provided before construction begins on those streets.

Why This Matters

Downtown is the heart of our community, a place for dining, shopping, and events. More parking means easier access for residents and visitors, supporting local businesses and making the area even more welcoming.

Stay Connected

We’ll share updates as each phase moves forward. We appreciate your patience as we work to enhance Old Town for all.

Editor's note: This story has been updated to include a statement from the city of Hutto and Hutto Economic Development Corporation.

Houston-based development company Midway filed a petition Feb. 18 against the Hutto Economic Development Corporation, Hutto Mayor Mike Snyder, real estate development firm Terra Halona and its co-managing partner Joel Scott, seeking $250 million in exemplary damages and $50 million in compensatory damages.

The background

The lawsuit—filed with Harris County District Clerk Marilyn Burgess—comes more than four months after the Hutto EDC announced it had ended negotiations with Midway to serve as the master developer for the Cottonwood Properties in Hutto.

Midway was first selected as the developer for the 250-acre site in December 2023, with the goal of building a mixed-use site including retail, grocery, restaurant and entertainment options. In March 2024, Midway and HEDC agreed to a memorandum of understanding, which was approved by Hutto City Council in April of that year.

The details

According to the filing, Terra Halona representatives had previously introduced Midway to former HEDC director Bob Farley, and presented Midway with a proposal to partner on the project that was never agreed to. Terra Halona also helped arrange a meeting between Midway and Snyder, after Midway was formally selected as the master developer.

In its petition, the development company claims that during the initial planning phase, Snyder asked how Terra Halona would be compensated. The petition states that Snyder said “things would not end well for Midway” if Terra Halona was not satisfied with the compensation structure, and that “the city and HEDC would restart the process with another developer.”

Brad Freels, chairman and CEO of Midway, subsequently explained to Snyder—a HEDC board member—that Terra Halona wasn’t part of Midway’s development team and that its only involvement was the initial introduction to Farley, per the filing.

In an email cited in the petition—which Community Impact also obtained in a public information request to the city of Hutto—Snyder wrote to Freels that he needed “to know that both Midway and Terramark are good with each other.”

Scott serves as the president of TerraMark Ventures, which joined with Halona Development to form the real estate development firm Terra Halona.

“How that is shown, whether by some agreement or something is up to you all,” he wrote. He later added that Hutto had “waited 2yrs to get no where. So, there is nothing telling me that we can’t just start the process all over and pick a different developer.”

Midway claims that Snyder’s actions constitute bribery and that, upon Midway’s refusal, Snyder took action “to kill the prospective contract between Midway and HEDC.”

Midway is seeking a jury trial. The full petition can be found here.

The city of Hutto provided Community Impact with a statement regarding the pending litigation.

"The city of Hutto and the Hutto Economic Development Corporation are aware of the lawsuit that was recently filed. As public organizations, we are committed to ethical conduct and take legal matters seriously. Because this is an active legal matter, we are limited in what we can discuss publicly. The city will respond through the appropriate legal process, including a thorough review of the claims. City operations and services remain fully operational, and we remain focused on serving our residents."

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Finding the perfect spot for a dinner date doesn’t always require a trek into downtown Austin. Hutto has blossomed into a culinary destination of its own, offering everything from historic charm to modern Texan elegance. Whether you are celebrating a 20th anniversary or a nervous first date, these local gems provide the perfect backdrop for romance. Here are the best romantic restaurants Hutto has!

Editor’s Note: We work hard to provide you with accurate and up-to-date information. However, all details are subject to change. Please verify information before heading out. This post may contain affiliate links.

If you click and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend experiences we truly believe in!

Curious about how we choose our content? Here’s our process.

Also check out these articles – Date Night Ideas in Hutto, Romantic Restaurants in Austin, Date Night Ideas Austin, Best Steakhouse in Austin, and Cheap Eats in Austin.

Cozy & Classic Romantic Restaurants Hutto

Known for its legendary “Pie Garden” and historic Old Town charm, this is the ultimate spot for a cozy, nostalgic date. The atmosphere is warm and unpretentious, perfect for couples who value comfort and conversation. Don’t skip the “Skillet Brandy Apple Pie”—it’s a shareable masterpiece that has been a local favorite for years.

Where: 207 East St, Hutto, TX 78634 Operating Hours: Sunday CLOSED | Monday – Thursday 11:00 am – 8:30 pm | Friday – Saturday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm

A local staple in downtown Hutto, Mario’s offers an intimate, family-run atmosphere that feels like a hidden gem. It’s a great choice for a relaxed Friday night date with authentic flavors and friendly service.

Where: 209 East St, Hutto, TX 78634 Operating Hours: Daily 7:00 am – 3:00 pm

Located in a charming spot near Farley Street, this is the best choice for a light, romantic lunch date. Their gourmet paninis and fresh salads are served in a bright, cheerful environment.

Where: 202 Farley St, Hutto, TX 78634 Operating Hours: Sunday CLOSED | Monday – Thursday 11:00 am – 8:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm

Modern & Spirited Date Spots

This highly anticipated addition to Hutto brings elevated Southern comfort food to a stylish, modern space. It is arguably the best “anniversary spot” in town for those looking for high-quality ingredients and a lively atmosphere. Try the Pesto-Marinated Crab Stuffed Chicken or the Ruby Red Trout for a sophisticated dinner.

Where: 211 Co-Op Blvd, Hutto, TX 78634 Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm | Sunday 10:00 am – 9:00 pm

For couples who prefer small bites and a great vintage, the Hutto Wine Bar on East Street offers a sophisticated escape. The dim lighting and curated wine list make it the most “traditionally romantic” spot in the city.

Where: 105 East St, Hutto, TX 78634 Operating Hours: Monday – Tuesday CLOSED | Wednesday – Thurday 11:00 am – 8:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm | Sunday 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm

While BBQ might not seem romantic to everyone, Southside’s Hutto location offers a clean, modern dining room that is perfect for a casual “Texas-style” date. It’s spacious and great for a low-pressure afternoon outing.

Where: 106 Co-Op Blvd, Hutto, TX 78634 Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday 10:00 am – 8:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 10:00 am – 9:00 pm

Affordable Romantic Restaurants Hutto

For an interactive date, head to this spot near Hutto. Cooking your own premium meats on a tabletop grill creates a fun, social experience that breaks the ice for new couples.

Where: 18900 Limestone Commercial Dr #100, Pflugerville, TX 78660 Operating Hours: Daily 11:00 am – 11:00 pm

If your idea of a romantic night includes live music and a burger, this is your place. It captures the local “Hippo” spirit with a great selection of Texas craft beers and a stage that frequently hosts local talent.

Where: 205 East St, Hutto, TX 78634 Operating Hours: Sunday – Tuesday 11:00 am – 11:00 pm | Wednesday – Saturday 11:00 am – 12:00 am

Perfect for a Sunday afternoon date, this brewery offers plenty of space and a relaxed vibe. Sharing a flight of local brews and some house-smoked meats is a great way to spend a lazy weekend.

Where: 610 US-79, Hutto, TX 78634 Operating Hours: Monday CLOSED | Tuesday – Sunday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm

If you want a date with a bit more energy, Casa Jalisco offers large margaritas and a bustling atmosphere. It’s perfect for couples who enjoy a more “night out” feel with plenty of food and drink options.

Where: 125 Co-Op Blvd, Hutto, TX 78634 Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday 8:00 am – 10:00 pm | Friday 8:00 am – 12:00 am | Saturday 8:00 am – 11:00 pm