Austin, Texas, December 12, 2025
The Waterline Tower, a 74-story mixed-use skyscraper in Austin, Texas, is set to become the tallest building in Texas upon its completion in 2026. Standing at 1,025 feet tall, the tower will feature luxury apartments, office space, and a hotel, emphasizing sustainability and innovation. This project reflects Austin’s rapid development trends, driven by local entrepreneurs and private investors, promising significant economic growth for the area.
Austin’s Waterline Tower to Become Texas’s Tallest Building
Austin, Texas – The Waterline Tower, a 74-story mixed-use skyscraper located at 98 Red River Street, is nearing completion and is poised to become the tallest building in Texas upon its opening in 2026. Standing at 1,025 feet, the tower will surpass the current tallest building, the JPMorgan Chase Tower in Houston, by 23 feet.
This ambitious development encapsulates the spirit of entrepreneurial innovation that thrives in Austin. With approximately 2.7 million square feet of space, the Waterline Tower will feature 352 luxury apartments, 700,000 square feet of office space, a 251-room 1 Hotel Austin, and 24,000 square feet of retail and restaurant areas. Designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF), the project aims to achieve LEED Gold certification, showcasing its commitment to sustainability through high-performance glazing and energy-efficient systems.
Construction commenced in June 2022, reaching a significant milestone with the topping out scheduled for August 2025. The phased opening will begin with the hotel in early fall 2026, followed by the office and residential components later that year. This timeline reflects a growing trend in Austin, where reduced regulatory barriers have allowed development projects like the Waterline Tower to progress rapidly.
A Bold Vision for Austin
Located near Waller Creek and Lady Bird Lake, the Waterline Tower is set to redefine Austin’s skyline and urban landscape. It is a testament to what can be achieved when local entrepreneurs and private investors seek to meet the demands of a burgeoning city. The combination of residential, commercial, and hospitality spaces aims to create a vibrant community hub that contributes positively to the local economy.
The Economic Impact
The construction of the Waterline Tower is expected to significantly impact the Travis County economy. The influx of jobs during construction and operations, along with attracting new residents and businesses, underscores the importance of projects that stimulate local investment. As more people move to the area, there is potential for further economic growth, supporting Austin’s entrepreneurial landscape.
Community Benefits
With its extensive amenities—luxury apartments, office space, and public areas—the Waterline Tower will serve not just residents but also visitors and local businesses. This mix is vital in fostering a dynamic community that benefits everyone. The addition of retail and restaurant spaces will not only enhance the local dining and shopping experience but will also provide opportunities for small businesses to thrive in a competitive market.
Sustainability Initiatives
In alignment with the growing focus on environmental consciousness, the Waterline Tower’s aim for LEED Gold certification places it among leaders in sustainable urban development. Implementing advanced energy-efficient systems and sustainable design principles, the project sets a benchmark for future developments in Austin and across the state.
Conclusion
The completion of the Waterline Tower in 2026 represents an exciting chapter for Austin, reinforcing the city’s position as a hub for innovation and economic growth. By supporting such projects, residents and local businesses can play a key role in shaping the future of their community. Engaging with local initiatives and fostering a supportive environment for entrepreneurship can drive further successes in Austin’s evolving landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Waterline Tower?
The Waterline Tower is a 74-story mixed-use skyscraper located at 98 Red River Street in Austin, Texas. Upon completion in 2026, it will become the tallest building in Texas, standing at 1,025 feet.
What facilities will the Waterline Tower include?
The tower will feature 352 luxury apartments, 700,000 square feet of office space, a 251-room 1 Hotel Austin, and 24,000 square feet of retail and restaurant areas.
When did construction of the Waterline Tower begin?
Construction began in June 2022, with the tower topping out in August 2025. The phased opening is scheduled to start with the hotel in early fall 2026, followed by the office and residential components later that year.
Where is the Waterline Tower located?
The Waterline Tower is situated near Waller Creek and Lady Bird Lake in Austin, Texas.
Key Features of the Waterline Tower
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 1,025 feet |
| Floors | 74 |
| Luxury Apartments | 352 units |
| Office Space | 700,000 square feet |
| Hotel | 251-room 1 Hotel Austin |
| Retail and Restaurant Space | 24,000 square feet |
| Construction Start | June 2022 |
| Topping Out | August 2025 |
| Phased Opening | Hotel in early fall 2026; office and residential components later that year |
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Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
