There were only a few thousand people living in Hutto a decade ago, but now the population is at 19,000, and it keeps growing.

The significant growth has caused problems for Hutto in the past, but city leaders have big plans for this year. In 2012, the city added more parking and sidewalk space on Farley Street.

In 2013, a number of projects will help boost the economy. To keep up with the growth, the city will make FM 685 an all-weather road by raising a bridge, and Mager Road will get a sidewalk so kids can walk safely to and from Hutto Elementary School.

"We have a tremendous quality of life.” Hutto City Manager David Mitchell said. “We have a good story to tell here in Hutto. People want to come and be a part of what the Hippos are and what this community has to offer and we have a small town feel."

Construction will begin on the YMCA set to open January 2014 as construction wraps on another major addition—the East Williamson County Higher Education Center. The new facility will bring thousands into the city every day.

"I think it’s going to be a tremendous boost to the overall Hutto economy, which in turn will help small businesses and the downtown,” Hutto business owner Matt Widmer said.

The biggest item on the Hutto City Council's agenda this year is whether to upgrade the current wastewater treatment plant or build a new one, which could double wastewater rates.

Council members will make a decision in February.