Imagine Tomball in 1908. It was a small town. It had about 150 people. The town had three saloons. But it had no schools and no churches. Fast forward to 1909. First Baptist Church of Tomball was organized. It met under a brush arbor at Main and Walnut Streets.
Over the years, First Baptist Church of Tomball grew. Newer worship centers were built. They were dedicated to the Lord in 1921 and 1949. Another was built in 1986. This one was on Houston and Oxford Streets. It was in the Old Town area of Tomball.
Now, let’s jump to 2003. First Baptist Church of Tomball purchased land. It was for a new campus. The location is north of the Four Corners intersection. It is between Quinn, Rudel, and Hicks Streets. The church is building modern facilities. These will represent Christ’s Kingdom. The land spans 32 acres.
In 2012, the First Baptist Church of Tomball completed an initial footprint. It has a multi-functional pavilion. It has restroom facilities and parking. This is for church and community activities.
Architectural and civil engineering planning has been underway for years. The goal is to develop a master plan. It includes building locations and parking. It also includes driveway access. The plan includes phased development of the facilities.
Currently, an initial structure is under construction. It is Phase 1. It will include a new worship center. It will have a large lobby. There will be a classroom wing. This is for children, youth, and adults. There will also be parking and a driveway entrance from Quinn Rd. It is adjacent to the existing pavilion.
Future space is planned for a larger worship center. Expanded facilities are planned for all age groups. More parking and driveway entrances are in the works. One entrance will be from the Tomball Parkway.
In 2022, an architectural and engineering study was conducted. Merriman-Holt-Powell Architects and Civil Systems Engineering collaborated. They presented the master plan at a Townhall meeting. A project timeline and cost estimate were shared. This was based on work with Paradigm Construction.
Design work focused on Phase 1 details in 2023. The architectural team, general contractor, and civil engineers worked together. They planned a worship center to seat 400 people. It has a lobby and gathering area. There is a secure kid’s hallway with classrooms. It has a youth room and four classrooms. These will function as adult Sunday School rooms. They can be minister’s offices. They can host small group meetings.
Construction of Phase 1 began in January 2024. The detention ponds and parking area are done. The foundation slab was poured in July 2024. The steel frame has been erected. Installation of the roofing system and exterior walls is underway. Interior buildout should occur during the winter into the spring. Move-in is expected by mid-2025.
First Baptist Church of Tomball has come a long way. From a brush arbor to a modern campus. It continues to serve Tomball and surrounding communities. It shines the light of the Lord.