Oxbow Proposes New Braunfels Mill Redevelopment
The historic 11-acre riverside site could become a hotel and community space by 2030.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Commercial
Live Poll
Do you support converting historic local industrial sites into mixed-use commercial developments?
The Oxbow Development Group is planning to transform the 140-year-old Dittlinger Mill site in New Braunfels into a mixed-use destination. The project seeks to convert industrial structures into a boutique hotel and rooftop bar while linking the city to the Comal River.
Why it matters
This redevelopment aims to preserve the site's industrial character, which has been a staple of the area since 1886. Successfully repurposing the property would bridge the gap between downtown New Braunfels and the local riverfront, creating a new public hub.
The 11-acre property features a historic mill building and grain silos, with one-quarter of the land located within a floodplain. Developers are currently evaluating needs for approximately 200 to 250 parking spaces to accommodate the proposed site usage.
The players
Oxbow Development Group
This real estate firm is leading the planning and proposed conversion of the historic industrial site.
New Braunfels City Council
The local governing body holds the authority to approve zoning changes and public-private partnership agreements.
The details
The developer intends to retrofit the mill building as a hotel and transform existing grain silos into a public projection area and rooftop bar. This proposal follows a November 2024 rezoning approval by the New Braunfels City Council that designated the area for high-intensity mixed use.
Timeline
Flour milling operations began at the site in 1886.
The facility officially closed in 2023.
City Council approved the site rezoning in November 2024.
A community listening session took place on October 13, 2026.
The developer targets a project opening in 2030.
Culture Shift
The repurposing of the Dittlinger Mill reflects a broader trend of restoring aging industrial assets to preserve community heritage while fueling urban growth. This approach aligns with the city's zoning code, which aims to convert dormant manufacturing sites into active commercial spaces.
Residents should expect potential changes to local traffic patterns and parking availability near the San Antonio Street bridge as the project moves toward construction. The development could also limit or influence public access to the Comal River area during the planned 2028-2030 construction window.
The takeaway
Preserving historic industrial landmarks requires balancing modern commercial utility with public concerns about infrastructure like traffic. Engaging in early community listening sessions allows developers to identify and address concerns about density before reaching the construction phase.
What happens next
The developer plans to present a public-private partnership framework to city officials by the end of 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about local business development trends in the New Braunfels Commercial section.
Live Poll
Do you support converting historic local industrial sites into mixed-use commercial developments?
