about the project

Project background

Interest in the Texas Theater has been a consistent theme in community conversations over time. Every time the City has asked for input about what would make Hillsboro better, citizens either mention the theater by name, ask for more entertainment, or both. These include our strategic planning process, periodic questions on social media, the comprehensive planning process, and the downtown planning process. Our citizens have made this loud and clear.

In addition to citizen input, experts see theTexas Theater as a priority opportunity site. Its location, visibility, and scale position it to support a wide range of uses, from small gatherings to larger community events.

In response, we at the City have initiated a due diligence phase to better understand the building’s condition and evaluate a practical path forward. This work has included site access, structural assessments, and the development of a phased approach to reactivation.

The project continues to build on both formal planning efforts and ongoing community interest. Its direction is shaped by consistent input over time and a shared interest in expanding opportunities for community use in downtown Hillsboro.

current condition

What's been Completed

The City of Hillsboro has acquired the Texas Theater through an exchange approved by the City Council. During the lease period and transition to ownership, the city began exploring possibilities for the building, gathered early public feedback, and took initial steps to better understand the work that may be required.

what's in progress

The current focus is evaluation and planning. That includes reviewing the building’s condition, identifying what is needed to protect its structural integrity, and continuing to assess what level of use, investment, and outside support may be realistic. The city is moving forward cautiously and not treating this as a fully defined or fully funded project.

what comes next

Next steps will depend on what ongoing evaluation shows, as well as the level of fundraising, volunteer support, and partnership the project is able to attract. Near-term work is expected to remain modest and focused on understanding and protecting the building before any larger public-facing plans are considered.

a phased approach

The building requires significant improvements before it can fully operate as an event venue. Priority needs include structural work, building systems, and basic infrastructure.

Because of this, the project is being approached incrementally, with each phase focused on making the building safer, more usable, and better equipped for future programming.

As improvements are completed, the range of possible uses will expand.

This approach allows the community to begin engaging with the space while work continues

Support your theater

You Can Help Make This Happen

The Texas Theater is in fundraising and friendraising mode. The first phase will depend on our ability to secure the space and ready it for the most basic level of use.

Future phases can add layers of functionality and finesse, but community support is essential to moving the project forward.

Whether through volunteering, membership, or financial contributions, there are multiple ways to be part of this work.

Get Involved