Friendship Pavilion opens at Expo Center

A ribbon cutting was held Friday, Oct. 24, to celebrate the completion of a new arena named the Friendship Pavilion at the Williamson County Expo Center, 5350 Bill Pickett Trail.

Spanning 175 feet by 450 feet, the new west arena is much larger than the original main arena, which is 125 feet by 285 feet. The west arena project also included construction of two covered picnic pavilions, which will provide space for meals and activities for the Expo Center’s RV park, and a paved parking area.

“This remarkable facility represents an important step forward in our ability to host a greater variety of events and to afford existing event holders opportunities to grow,” said Parks Director Russell Fishbeck.

Fishbeck, who soon steps down from his position, will be replaced by T.W. Dieckmann.

“I am truly grateful to have been part of this exciting expansion,” he said.

Both Fishbeck and Precinct 4 Commissioner Russ Boles thanked the community for their support, through private donations and the passing of the 2023 park bond, to make projects like the Friendship Pavilion possible. Boles added that East Williamson County needs facilities as it continues to grow.

“Friendship Pavilion will provide a space to support our beloved livestock and agricultural communities; and the new facilities will allow farmers and ranchers to meet, learn and compete at what they do best,” he said.

Boles also thanked supporters for honoring the history of Williamson County. The Friendship Pavilion was named after the community of Friendship, which now sits under Lake Granger after being immersed by San Gabriel flood waters in 1913, 1921 and 1958.

“It’s not only important to remember those people but to remember where we are and to respect the legacy of the people who came before us,” Boles said.