Caldwell County to Open State-of-the-Art Evacuation Center with Capacity for Hundreds
In a move to enhance disaster response capabilities, Caldwell County in Texas is set to open a cutting-edge evacuation center in Luling. The 45,000-square-feet facility will provide refuge for over 360 individuals displaced by natural disasters such as wildfires, tornadoes, and floods from across the state. Caldwell County Judge Hoppy Haden emphasized the importance of having a dedicated space for evacuees, stating, “Wildfires, tornadoes, floods, anything that displaces folks, they’ll have a place to come here.”
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Amenities
The Caldwell County Evacuation Center, slated for completion in 2026, will offer a wide range of amenities to ensure the comfort and well-being of evacuees. The center will feature a large, state-of-the-art kitchen to provide nourishing meals, as well as shower and bathroom facilities for personal hygiene. Additionally, a laundry mat will be available for individuals to clean their clothes during their stay. Judge Haden emphasized that the center aims to provide a temporary home for evacuees until it is safe for them to return to their communities.
Community Support and Impact
The announcement of the evacuation center has been met with enthusiasm by residents of Luling, including Joann Button, who expressed the need for such facilities in light of frequent storms and tornadoes in the region. The center will not only serve as a shelter during emergencies but also as a venue for large events, providing additional value to the community. Judge Haden acknowledged the importance of the new facility, noting that existing facilities are nearing the end of their life cycle and require replacement to meet the evolving needs of the county.
The project, with an estimated cost of $22 million, will be funded through a grant from the Texas General Land Office. The county anticipates the center to be operational by the first part of 2026, marking a significant milestone in enhancing disaster preparedness and response efforts in the region. With its strategic location and state-of-the-art facilities, the Caldwell County Evacuation Center is poised to become a vital resource for residents in times of crisis.