Austin’s Waterline Tower Becomes Tallest Building in Texas at 1,025 Feet

This week, the Waterline tower in downtown Austin has officially claimed the title of the tallest building in Texas, soaring to its full height of 1,025 feet. 

Developers celebrated the topping out of the impressive 74-story skyscraper on Thursday, marking a significant milestone that now defines the Austin skyline. Situated on Red River Street, close to Waller Creek and Lady Bird Lake, the building boasts around 2.7 million square feet of space—comparable to 47 football fields. It encompasses offices, upscale residences, retail outlets, and dining establishments, all equipped with their own entrances, elevators, and parking facilities.

Lincoln Property Co. has unveiled a project that aims to seamlessly connect Austin's downtown core with the vibrant Rainey Street Historic District, marking an important milestone in the long-term vision for the area. Andy Smith, the senior vice president at Lincoln, stated that the tower's height resulted from crafting a design that accommodates various functions within a limited space. “Our intention was not to create the tallest building; it simply evolved into that,” Smith remarked. “When we considered all the applications collectively, it simply clicked.”

Connectivity is one of Waterline’s essential features. The Waterloo Greenway Conservancy is collaborating on a new initiative that features infrastructure for one of four pedestrian bridges under construction. 

The upcoming bridges are set to connect downtown Austin with Rainey Street, the University of Texas Dell Medical campus, and the Butler Hike and Bike Trail, enhancing accessibility and fostering community engagement. Smith highlighted that the building's importance lies in its integration within the urban landscape, rather than its sheer height. “Disregard the notion that it is the tallest,” he remarked. “The focus is on its interaction with Waller Creek and the connection it creates with Austin.”

After four years of construction, the tower is set to commence its phased opening. In early fall 2026, the hotel will open its doors to guests, marking the beginning of the subsequent launch of residential, office, and retail spaces.

‍