COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: 20250428-005: Budget Proposal for Improving the Accuracy and Effectiveness of the Austin Point-In-Time (PIT) Count Motioned by: Vice Chair Zeidan Seconded by: Commissioner Clemmons WHEREAS, The annual PIT Count is a critical tool for assessing the scale of homelessness in Austin and securing federal funding, yet it has long been criticized for undercounting due to methodological challenges, volunteer limitations, and the transitory nature of homelessness. WHEREAS, Unhoused individuals in non-sheltered locations—such as encampments, wooded areas, and vehicles—are often missed, leading to inaccurate data that impacts funding and resource distribution. WHEREAS, The COVID-19 pandemic, housing crisis, and economic instability have increased the number of people experiencing homelessness, making accurate data collection more essential than ever. WHEREAS, Community organizations, advocacy groups, and policy leaders have called for more precise, real-time data collection efforts to better understand the causes, demographics, and needs of Austin’s unhoused population. WHEREAS, a more accurate PIT count can lead to additional federal funding due to a better understanding of where the city sits regarding homelessness. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED The Human Rights Commission of the City of Austin recommends the City Council allocate $450,000 in funding to improve the methodology, accuracy, and impact of the PIT Count through the following initiatives: 1. Enhanced Technology and Real-Time Data Collection a. Develop and deploy a mobile app for PIT Count volunteers to capture real-time data, geotag encampment locations, and ensure accuracy. b. Expand the use of AI and machine learning in collaboration with local universities and tech partners to predict trends in homelessness and improve counting methods. c. Fund heatmaps and GIS tools to better identify high-density areas and track displacement patterns throughout the year. 2. Expanded Volunteer Training and Outreach a. Provide stipends to train outreach teams and ensure PIT Count volunteers are well-prepared to engage with unhoused individuals. b. Expand collaboration with lived experience consultants (unhoused/formerly unhoused individuals) to refine data collection approaches and improve survey effectiveness. Increase partnerships with community-based organizations, such as Mobile Loaves & Fishes and ECHO Austin, to ensure better outreach and participation. c. 3. Incentives for Participation and Data Accuracy a. Implement a small compensation program (e.g., gift cards, meals, or basic supplies) for unhoused individuals who participate in the survey to encourage honest responses. b. Provide funding for follow-up surveys throughout the year, ensuring a more continuous and accurate count rather than a one-time …
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: (20250428-006): Recommendation to Allocate Municipal Funding for Grants that Benefit Inclusive Arts Programs Supporting Autistic and Neurodivergent Communities Motioned by: Commissioner Bryant Seconded by: Vice Chair Zeidan WHEREAS, the City of Austin upholds a commitment to equity, inclusivity, and cultural enrichment for all residents, including neurodivergent individuals and youth on the autism spectrum; and WHEREAS, inclusive arts programs provide essential spaces for personal growth, social development, and creative expression for neurodivergent individuals, particularly youth who often face barriers to participation in traditional educational and extracurricular settings; and WHEREAS, organizations currently doing this work include past City of Austin cultural funding recipient American Artists Project, whose Variations program offers choir-based musical engagement specifically for youth on the autism spectrum, creating a safe, supportive space for developing social and artistic skills; and WHEREAS, nonprofits providing inclusive programming for neurodivergent individuals are increasingly underfunded, and many are experiencing significant cuts in federal and state support due to shifting political priorities and reduced allocations to the arts, education, and disability services sectors; and WHEREAS, the national political climate has become increasingly hostile toward neurodivergent individuals, with public rhetoric from influential figures reinforcing damaging stereotypes and promoting exclusion, undermining the rights and dignity of autistic people; and WHEREAS, local governments—including the City of Austin—have a responsibility to counter these trends by affirmatively investing in inclusive, community-building programs that celebrate diversity, encourage belonging, and promote the well-being of all residents; and WHEREAS, while the City of Austin currently funds cultural arts through programs like Thrive, Elevate, and Nexus, there is a need for targeted and accessible opportunities specifically supporting arts programs that center neurodivergent and autistic individuals; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Human Rights Commission of the City of Austin recommends that the City Council allocate new or expanded funding up to $120,000 to support inclusive arts and cultural programming that serves neurodivergent and autistic individuals; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council establish open calls for grants and contracts to support nonprofits and community-based organizations that provide accessible, identity-affirming, and culturally relevant arts programming for neurodivergent populations; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council consider adjustments or additions to existing Cultural Arts Funding Programs to include dedicated resources or scoring criteria for programs centering individuals on the autism spectrum and related communities; BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the City of Austin reaffirm its leadership …
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Monday, April 28, 2025 The Human Rights Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, April 28, 2025 at 301 W. 2nd St., Boards & Commissions Room, in Austin, Texas. Chair Duhon called the Human Rights Commission meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Kolby Duhon (Chair) Gabrielle Zeidan (Vice Chair) Muneeb “Meebs” Aslam Danielle Bryant Jeffrey Clemmons Maryam Khawar Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Morgan Davis Harriett Kirsh Pozen Alicia Weigel PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Mela Sarajane Dailey – Grant Funding APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on February 24, 2025. The minutes were approved without objection on Chair Duhon’s motion on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Weigel was off the dais. Commissioners Krueger and Oliva Martínez were absent. 2. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on March 24, 2025. The minutes were approved without objection on Chair Duhon’s motion on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Weigel was off the dais. Commissioners Krueger and Oliva Martínez were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1 3. Discussion of the 2025 Texas Legislative Session with regards to bills related to human rights. Discussion was held. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve a recommendation on the FY2025-26 Budget for Supporting Supplies to Enhance Immigrant Student Protections and Rights. The recommendation was amended to strike “and” before “materials”, insert “and grants” after “materials”, strike “$500,000” and insert “$250,000” in all instances, insert “not exclusive to ISDs” after Austin ISD, strike $150,000, strike $120,000, strike $100,000, strike $80,000, strike $50,000, insert “Grants and” before “coordination”, insert “Grant funding to total $150,000” after “Organizations”, and insert “grants” after “outreach” on Commissioner Bryant’s motion, Commissioner Aslam’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Krueger and Oliva Martínez were absent. The recommendation was approved as amended on Vice Chair Zeidan’s motion, Commissioner Aslam’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Krueger and Oliva Martínez were absent. 5. Approve a recommendation on the FY2025-26 Budget for Improving the Accuracy and Effectiveness of the Austin Point-In-Time (PIT) Count. The recommendation was amended to insert “WHEREAS, a more accurate PIT count can lead to additional federal funding due to a better understanding of where the city sits regarding homelessness”, strike $750,000 and insert $450,000 in all instances, strike $250,000, strike $200,000, strike $150,000, and strike $150,000 on Commissioner Bryant’s motion, Commissioner Aslam’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Krueger …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE HIV PLANNING COUNCIL MONDAY, APRIL 28, 2025, 6:00 P.M. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, RM. 1203 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the HIV PLANNING COUNCIL may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: Click here to join the meeting Public comment will be allowed in person or remotely via telephone or Teams. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register to speak, call or email the Office of Support, (737)-825-1684 or hivplanningcouncil@austintexas.gov CURRENT HIV PLANNING COUNCIL MEMBERS: Kelle’ Martin, Chair Marquis Goodwin, Vice Chair, Conflicted Kristina McRae-Thompson, Secretary Alicia Alston Joe Anderson, Conflicted Liza Bailey Aran Belani Ashley Garling Judith Hassan Benito Juarez Sukriti Mareddy CALL TO ORDER AGENDA PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up no later than noon on 4/25/2025 will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the HIV Planning Council regular meeting on March 24, 2025 CONFLICT OF INTEREST DECLARATIONS 2. Members will declare conflicts of interest with relevant agenda items, service categories, and/or service standards. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Office of Support Staff Briefing 4. Administrative Agent Staff Briefing 5. Part B Staff Briefing DISCUSSION ITEMS 6. Discuss directives and directive funding and potential directives DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Discussion and approval of recommendations for Y1 Plan for Needs Assessment 2026- 2031 8. Discussion and approval of Town Hall Logistics 9. Discussion and rescheduling of May 26th Full Council Meeting due to Memorial Day COMMITTEE UPDATES 10. Care Strategies and Engagement Committee 11. Finance and Assessment Committee FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 12. Discussion of workplan calendar and social calendar ADJOURNMENT Indicative of action items The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. TTY users’ route through Relay Texas at 711. For More Information on the HIV Planning Council, please contact Rashana Raggs …
HIV PLANNING COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, April 28th 2025 The HIV PLANNING COUNCIL convened in a REGULAR meeting on MONDAY, APRIL 28TH 2025 at 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE in Austin, Texas. Kelle Martin called the HIV PLANNING COUNCIL Meeting to order at 6:12 p.m. Planning Council Members in Attendance: None. Planning Council Members in Attendance Remotely: Kelle’ Martin, Ashley Garling, Alicia Alston, Judith Hassan, Kristina McRae-Thompson PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the HIV PLANNING COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING on 03/24/2025. The minutes from the meeting of 03/24/2025 were approved as written on Alicia Alston’s motion, Kelle Martin second on a 5-0 vote. For: Kelle’ Martin, Kristina McRae Thompson, Alicia Alston, Judith Hassan, Ashley Garling. Abstain: Kelle Martin. Off dais: None. Non-voting: None. Abstain: None. Absent: Aran Belani, Marquis Goodwin, Liza Bailey, Joe Anderson Jr. CONFLICT OF INTEREST DECLARATIONS 1. Members will declare conflicts of interest with relevant agenda items, service categories, and/or service standards. None STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Office of Support Staff Report 1 Update given by Rashana Raggs. Isaac Caballero introduced as prospective member to council. Sol Muhammad introduction as new Admin. Specialist – HIV Planning Council is now fully staffed. Refer to written report for full details. 3. Administrative Agent Report Updates given by Erin Brown. Ryan White and MAI contracts have been fully executed for FY25. Grant Kick-off Meeting on May 6th. Refer to written report for full details. 4. Part B Report Update given by Alicia Alston. Needs Assessment in progress. Reviewed expenditures through March 31, 2025. Refer to written report for full details. DISCUSSION ITEMS 5. Discuss directives and directive funding and potential directives Discussion led by Rashana Raggs. There were no directives during the previous PSRA process in 2024. At this time there are no potential directives. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Discussion and approval of recommendations for Y1 Plan for Needs Assessment 2026-2031 The motion to approve Y1 Plan for Needs Assessment 2026 - 2031 was approved on Kelle’ Martin’s motion and Alicia Alston second on a (5-0) vote. For: Kelle’ Martin, Kristina McRae Thompson, Alicia Alston, Judith Hassan, Ashley Garling. Abstain: Kelle Martin. Off dais: None. Non-voting: None. Abstain: None. Absent: Aran Belani, Marquis Goodwin, Liza Bailey, Joe Anderson Jr. 7. Discussion and approval of Townhall Logistics The motion to approve Townhall Logistics was approved on Kelle Martin’s motion and Alicia Alston second on a …
REGULAR MEETING of the DESIGN COMMISSION MONDAY APRIL 28, 2025, 6:00 PM PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1405 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DRIVE AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Design Commission may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Nicole Corona, at 512-974-3146 or nicole.corona@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Jon Salinas, Chair Josue Meiners, Vice Chair David Carroll Nkiru Gelles Kevin Howard Saria Khan CALL TO ORDER Conners Ladner Ben Luckens Marissa McKinney Evgenia “Jenny” Murkes Brendan Wittstruck AGENDA PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first five speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Design Commission regular meeting on March 24, 2025. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Discussion and action to recommend to City Council whether the project Austin Convention Center Redevelopment, located at 500 East 3rd Street, complies with the City Design and Sustainability Standards as presented to the Design Commission on March 24, 2025. Sponsors: Chair Salinas and Commissioner Wittstruck. 3. Discussion and action to select Downtown Density Bonus Program projects from the past ten years to conduct analysis on outcomes. Sponsors: Chair Salinas and Vice Chair Meiners. 4. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair. DISCUSSION ITEMS 5. Discussion of analysis on the past Downtown Density Bonus Program projects, 405 Colorado, located at 405 Colorado Street, associated with SP-2016-0260C, and 5th and West, located at 501 West Avenue, associated with SP-2013-0454C. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 6. 7. 8. 9. Update from the representative of Urban Design Guidelines Working Group regarding the meeting on April 14, 2025. Update from the representative of the Joint Sustainability Committee regarding the meeting on April 23, 2025. Update from the representative of the South Central Waterfront Advisory Board regarding the meeting on April 21, 2025. Update from the representative of the Downtown Commission regarding the meeting on April 16, 2025. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Note: City Code requires two …
DESIGN COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, MARCH 24, 2025 The Design Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, March 24, 2025, at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Salinas called the Design Commission meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Jon Salinas, Chair Josue Meiners, Vice Chair David Carroll Nkiru Gelles Evgenia “Jenny” Murkes Brendan Wittstruck Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Marissa McKinney PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Design Commission regular meeting on February 24, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of 02/24/2025 were approved on Vice Chair Meiners’ motion, Chair Salinas’ second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner Murkes was off the dais. Commissioners Howard, Ladner, Luckens, and Wallace were absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Discussion and action to recommend to City Council whether the project AUS West Garage, located at 2921 1/2 Presidential Boulevard, complies with the City Design and Sustainability 1 Standards. Presented by Mari Boren, Capital Delivery Services, Cris Ruebush, PGAL, and Shelby Horton, Dunaway. There was a motion to recommend to City Council that the project AUS West Garage, located at 2921 1/2 Presidential Boulevard, complies with the City Design and Sustainability Standards. There was a substitute motion to recommend to City Council that the project AUS West Garage, located at 2921 1/2 Presidential Boulevard, complies with the City Design and Sustainability Standards with the inclusion of solar array, exploring water retention, increased electric vehicle capacity, increased vertical or horizontal vegetation to mitigate the heat island effect, and to encourage safer, intuitive paths for pedestrians was approved on Vice Chair Meiners’ motion, Commissioner Gelles’ second on a 6-0-1 vote. Commissioner Wittstruck recused from this item due to a conflict of interest and left the dais. Commissioners Howard, Ladner, Luckens, and Wallace were absent. Discussion and action to recommend to City Council whether the project Austin Convention Center Redevelopment, located at 500 East 3rd Street, complies with the City Design and Sustainability Standards. Presented by Riley Triggs, Capital Delivery Services, and Larry Speck and Josh Coleman, LMN/Page. The motion to recommend to City Council that the project Austin Convention Center Redevelopment, located at 500 East 3rd Street, complies with the City Design and Sustainability Standards failed on Vice Chair Meiners’ motion, Chair Salinas’ second on a 4-1-2 vote. Those members voting aye were: Chair Salinas …
AUSTIN CONVENTION CENTER REDEVELOPMENT DESIGN COMMISSION PRESENTATION SPO-2025-001BC MARCH 24, 2025 PROJECT SCOPE LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 BY THE NUMBERS CONSTRUCTION COST $1.26B RENTABLE SPACE AREAS EXISTING CONVENTION CENTER 365,000 SF NEW CONVENTION CENTER INDOOR + OUTDOOR 550,000 + 70,000 SF FUTURE EXPANSION 140,000 SF LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 PROJECT GOALS LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 AUSTIN CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION NO. 20210610-096 The City Council seeks to work with the prime architecture firm capable of delivering a world class design befitting a city of Austin’s size and prominence. The Convention Center design shall incorporate the most innovative ideas in programming and placemaking and shall aim to create a civic building that draws and serves Austinites as well as visitors. The City council affirms its intention that the convention Center be, like its companion civic building to the west, the Austin Central Library, a landmark of great distinction, a bustling and vital public gathering place, and a point of pride for the community. LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 THE AUSTIN MATRIX UNIQUELY AUSTIN Slide 9 | July 24, 2024 CONFIDENTIAL DRAFT LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 ARTS + CULTURE + MUSIC + ENTERTAINMENT CITY LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 FESTIVAL CITY LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 TECH CITY LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES AREA WIDE AW.1 CREATE DENSE DEVELOPMENT AW.2 CREATE MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT AW.3 LIMIT DEVELOPMENT WHICH CLOSES DOWNTOWN STREETS N/A AW.4 BUFFER NEIGHBORHOOD EDGES AW.5 INCORPORATE CIVIC ART IN BOTH PUBLIC AND PRIVATE DEVELOPMENT AW.6 PROTECT IMPORTANT PUBLIC VIEWS AW.7 AVOID HISTORICAL MISINTERPRETATIONS AW.8 RESPECT ADJACENT HISTORIC BUILDINGS AW.9 ACKNOWLEDGE ROOFTOPS ARE SEEN FROM OTHER BUILDINGS AND STREET AW.10 AVOID THE DEVELOPMENT OF THEME ENVIRONMENTS AW.11 RECYCLE EXISTING BUILDING STOCK LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES PUBLIC STREETSCAPE PS.1 PROTECT THE PEDESTRIAN WHERE THE BUILDING MEETS THE STREET PS.2 MINIMIZE CURB CUTS PS.3 CREATE THE POTENTIAL FOR TWO-WAY STREETS PS.4 REINFORCE PEDESTRIAN ACTIVITY PS.5 ENHANCE KEY TRANSIT STOPS PS.6 ENHANCE THE STREETSCAPE PS.7 AVOID CONFLICTS BETWEEN PEDESTRIANS AND UTILITY EQUIPMENT PS.8 INSTALL STREET TREES PS.9 PROVIDE PEDESTRIAN SCALED-LIGHTING PS.10 PROVIDE PROTECTION FROM CARS/ PROMOTE CURBSIDE PARKING PS.11 SCREEN MECHANICAL AND UTILITY EQUIPMENT PS.12 PROVIDE GENEROUS STREET-LEVEL WINDOWS PS.13 INSTALL PEDESTRIAN-FRIENDLY MATERIALS AT STREET LEVEL LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES PLAZAS AND OPEN SPACE PS.1 TREAT THE FOUR SQUARES WITH …
RECONNECTING AUSTIN LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 UNPRECEDENTED OPPORTUNITIES UNPRECEDENTED OPPORTUNITIES • • • • • • • • • • • February 25, 2025 LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 RECONNECTION OF THE GRID SCALE AND POROSITY RECONNECTION OF THE GRID SCALE AND POROSITY February 25, 2025 LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 THE BLOCKS THE BLOCKS February 25, 2025 LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 INTERSECTION OF PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE INTERSECTION OF PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE February 25, 2025 LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 URBAN TO LANDSCAPE URBAN TO LANDSCAPE URBAN / LANDSCAPE February 25, 2025 Slide 17 | September 5, 2024 CONFIDENTIAL DRAFT LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 URBAN TO URBAN TO LANDSCAPE LANDSCAPE February 25, 2025 LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 INDOOR TO OUTDOOR INDOOR TO OUTDOOR INSIDE / OUTSIDE February 25, 2025 Slide 18 | September 5, 2024 CONFIDENTIAL DRAFT LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 THE NEW BLOCKS INDOOR TO OUTDOOR THE RAVINE VERTICAL CONNECTIONS EX HALL TO FLEX HALL LINKS TO NATURE AND CREEK THE PASEO ACTIVATED PROMENADE CONNECTOR URBANE AND ORDERED LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 TRIO OF LANDMARK BUILDINGS CENTRAL LIBRARY CITY HALL CONVENTION CENTER LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 ARCHITECTURALLY INTEGRATED ART LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 UNPRECEDENTED SCALE ~$17.7M TOTAL INVESTMENT Austin’s largest single investment in public art to date ARCHITECTURAL INTEGRATION 10 artists selected during Schematic Design of building for architecturally-integrated art Additional AIPP artwork will follow more traditional procurement timeline LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 SELECTED ARTISTS Aaron Michalovic Alejandra Almuelle Carmen Rangel Dave McClinton Dawn Okoro Deborah Roberts Diego Miro-Rivera Jenaro Goode Rex Hamilton Tsz Kam LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 PRELIMINARY LOCATIONS WAREHOUSE CORNER WAREHOUSE FLEX HALL PORTALS HUB WEST HUB EAST REGISTRATION PASEO SOFFIT BALLROOM SHADE CANOPY LEVEL 03 PREFUNCTION LIGHTING BALLROOM SOUTH STONE FABRICATION LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 DESIGN APPROACH LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 GROUND LEVEL PROGRAM 1 GROUND LEVEL • CONVENTION SPACES INTEGRATED WITH SURROUNDING STREETS • CENTRAL MULTISTORY LOBBY CONNECTS TO UPPER AND LOWER LEVELS • SIGNATURE TIMBER BALLROOM AND LOBBY STRUCTURE • MEETING ROOMS AND BALLROOM WITH CONNECTIONS TO OUTDOOR SPACES • MULTI FUNCTIONAL OUTDOOR EVENT SPACES February 25, 2025 LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 PROGRAM STACKED WITH VERTICAL CONNECTIONS STACKED …
RED RIVER STREET EAST FACADE LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 RED RIVER STREET VIEW AT THE PASEO LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 RED RIVER STREET MEETING TERRACE LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 RED RIVER STREET MEETING TERRACE VERTICAL SCREEN FAIRMONT HOTEL RAINEY DISTRICT BEYOND WATERLOO GREENWAY LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 TRINITY STREET SECTION 1/8" = 1'-0" SITE SECTION 7 PLANTING AREA PROPERTY LINE TREE GRATE FOUNDATION WALL TRINITY STREET 4'-9" 6'-0" STREET TREE SIDEWALK, 21'-0" WIDE SITE SECTION 5 1/8" = 1'-0" 0 4' 8' 16' 1/8" = 1'-0" SITE SECTION 6 LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 TRINITY STREET WEST FACADE LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 TRINITY STREET VIEW AT THE PASEO THE HUB WEST February 25, 2025 LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 DESIGN PARAMETERS THE HALL + PORCH • Connection to Landscape • Break the scale of the block • Timber Wood Structure • Rain water collection for Landscape Integration • Ballroom: “Civic” Companion to the Library and City Hall Landmark Companion to the Library and City Hall • Porch: Pavilion in the Park BOH/ RETAIL BALLROOM PORCH EXHALL TRINITY NECHES RED RIVER H O B / L I A T E R N A B R U M O O R L L A B H C R O P E P A C S D N A L October 10, 2024 October 9, 2024 CONFIDENTIAL DRAFT CONFIDENTIAL DRAFT LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint Venture LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 THE HALL + PORCH SITE PLAN LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 TRINITY STREET WEST FACADE LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 CESAR CHAVEZ STREET SECTION BLDG, BLDG, BLDG, REF. ARCH REF. ARCH REF. ARCH " " 6 6 - - ' ' 2 2 " 6 - ' 2 18'-3 1/8" 18'-3 1/8" SIDEWALK SIDEWALK 12’-8” 18'-3 1/8" SIDEWALK FOUNDATION FOUNDATION WALL WALL FOUNDATION WALL 6'-0" 6'-0" BIOSWALE BIOSWALE 6'-0" BIOSWALE CESAR CESAR CHAVEZ CHAVEZ CESAR CHAVEZ PROPER PROPERTY LIN PROPERTY LIN SIDEWALK SIDEWALK 10'-0" 10'-0" SIDEWALK 10'-0" PLANTING PLANTING 3'-0" 3'-0" PLANTING 3'-0" FOUNDATION WALL FOUNDATION WALL FOUNDATION WALL SITE SECTION 11 SITE SECTION 11 SITE SECTION 11 1/8" = 1'-0" 1/8" = 1'-0" 1/8" = 1'-0" SITE SECTION 10 SITE SECTION 10 SITE SECTION 10 1/4" = 1'-0" 1/4" = 1'-0" 1/4" = 1'-0" LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 CESAR CHAVEZ STREET VIEW AT NORTHERN SIDEWALK LMN/Page Joint VentureMarch 24, 2025 CESAR CHAVEZ …
C i t y o f A u s t i n Design Commission Project Review Application Photo courtesy of Jorge E. Rousselin C i t y o f A u s t i n Design Commission Project Review Application The Design Commission provides advisory recommendations to the City Council to assist in developing public policy and to promote excellence in the design and development of the urban environment. The Design Commission reviews three types of projects: 1. City projects (see page 3 for process) The Commission reviews all municipal buildings and associated site plans to ensure they demonstrate compliance with city design and sustainability standards (Council Resolution No. 20071129-046), including those seeking Subchapter E Design Standards Alternative Equivalent Compliance (AEC) (Council Resolution No. 20100923-086). 2. Density Bonus projects (see page 4 for process) The Commission reviews density bonus projects for substantial compliance with the Urban Design Guidelines for Austin in accordance with the Gatekeeper requirements of LDC 25-2-586 for the Downtown Density Bonus Program. 3. Advisory Recommendations for Private projects (see page 3 for process) The Commission will consider Project Review Applications from private projects during its regularly scheduled monthly public meetings and may issue an advisory recommendation in the form of a Project Review Letter to the Applicant. Page 2 Design Commission - Project Review ApplicationPhoto courtesy of Jorge E. Rousselin This Project Review Application must be submitted before your project can be presented to the Design Commission for their review. Design Commission requests project be presented in their Conceptual/ Schematic Design phase. This application primarily addresses inhabited buildings and structures and their effect on the public realm; please refer to Appendix A for infrastructure type projects. The Commission’s review of projects is based on the planning/design principles in the Urban Design Guidelines for Austin. Ensure that all applicable principles are addressed in the application questions and in your presentation. The Design Commission supports the vision and principles of Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan, especially those that affect the urban environment and fabric. All projects should consider this vision and principles, many of which are similar to the Urban Design Guidelines. Refer to Appendix C for the most pertinent sections of Imagine Austin. The Design Commission expects the applicant’s design team to present their project with those most knowledgeable and encourages the inclusion of sub-consultants at the presentation, when deemed necessary. EXHIBITS TO PRESENT 1. Completed Project Review Application …
Project Case Number Project Location In Date Bonus Request (FAR) Bonus Request (Height in ft Bonused Sq. Ft. Status of Project Design Commission (Working Group Date) Date Reviewed by Design Commission Design Commission Outcome DDBP Case Tracking Aspen Heights Apartments (now Rise) SP-2013-0434C 805 Nueces Street (516 W. 8th Street) 11/1/2013 8 5th & West SP-2013-0454C 501 W. 5th Street 1/31/2014 19.7 7th & Congress (Element & Aloft Hotels) SP-2014-0068C 619 & 621 Congress Ave. (109 E. 7th Street) 5/15/2014 21.2 5th & Brazos SP-2014-0406C 501 Brazos 10/3/2014 19.7 Third and Shoal SP-2015-0346C 607 W. 3rd 4/4/2016 10.2 Waterloo Park Tower SP-2016-0106C 1201 Red River 1/25/2017 405 Colorado SP-2016-0260C 405 Colorado 7/21/2016 Marriott at Cesar Chavez SP-2016-0300C 304 E. Cesar Chavez 10/6/2016 48 East Ave Apts SP-2016-0391C 48 East Avenue 8/9/2016 15 13 15 15 1400 Lavaca (now SXSW Center) SP-2016-0452C 1400 Lavaca 10/3/2016 4.11 Town Lake Lofts SP-2017-0107C 16 N I-35 Service Dr 7/22/2016 15 700 11th St SP-2017-0166C 700 11th St 9/7/2017 10.43 6th + Guadalupe SP-2017-0301C.F1 600 Guadalupe Street 5/24/2018 Block 71 (UT System Property) SP-2017-0311C 200 W. 6th St 10/26/2017 25 25 300 Colorado SP-2018-0096C 300 Colorado Street 5/22/2018 15.71 91 Red River SP-2018-0111C 91-93 Red River Street 7/5/2018 13.12 200 430 328 420 391 371 363 381 342 171 352 344 838 555 455 326 86,840 Approved with Memo 194,854 Approved with Memo 11/25/2013 2/24/2014 Recommendation of Compliance with additional recommendations (see letter) Recommendation of Non-Compliance with list of means for compliance (see letter) 145,977 Approved with Memo 5/27/2014 Recommendation of Compliance 408,999 Approved with Memo 10/27/2014 Recommendation of Compliance 77,720 Approved with Memo 4/25/2016 Recommendation of Compliance 133,140 Approved with Memo 3/27/2017 Recommendation of Compliance 85,634 Approved with Memo 1/9/2017 4/24/2017 & 5/22/2017 Recommendation of Non-Compliance 243,677 Approved with Memo 05/22/2017 & 6/05/2017 Recommendation of Compliance 125,055 Approved with Memo 1/23/2017 Recommendation of Compliance 66,600 Approved with Memo 11/28/2016 Recommendation of Compliance 109,214 Approved with Memo 12/19/2016 Recommendation of Compliance 85,702 Approved with Memo 10/23/2017 Motion for Recommendation of Compliance failed for lack of votes 565,109 Approved with Memo 8/27/2018 Recommendation of Compliance 1,296,080 Approved with Memo 11/27/2017 Recommendation of Compliance 191,424 Approved with Memo 6/25/2018 Recommendation of Compliance 164,768 Approved with Memo 9/24/2018 Recommendation of Compliance City of Austin - Planning Zoning Department - Urban Design Division - December 2018 The Travis Ph.1 SP-2018-0159C 80 Red River Street 2/22/2019 The Travis Ph.2 SP-2018-0159C …
M E M O R A N D U M TO: Site Plan and Building Permit Case Managers FROM: Gregory I. Guernsey, AICP, Director of Planning, Planning and Zoning Department DATE: June 19, 2015 RE: Density Bonus for 5th & West multifamily development, SP-2013-0454C, Expected address: 718 West 5th Street, Austin, TX 78701 final FAR calculations and contributions to affordable housing and other community benefits. This memorandum grants approval for modifications to the 5th & West development (the Project) subject to the stated conditions and requirements as of the date listed above. This memorandum also summarizes the requirements that must be met for the above mentioned project to be granted the entitlements listed below through the Downtown Density Bonus Program as described in City Code section 25-2-586. The entitlements described below are associated only with the Project as described in the attached documents and site plan No. SP-2013-0454C and cannot be transferred to a different project. If an applicant proposes a different project on the same site and seeks to use a Density Bonus, the applicant must re-apply for the Downtown Density Bonus Program using the rules in effect at the time of application. The entitlements granted herein do not run with the land. A Certificate of Occupancy shall not be granted for this Project until all requirements below are met. This memorandum shall be attached to all site plan applications and building permit applications and the following note shall be placed in AMANDA and on the cover of all site plan applications and building permit applications: “A Certificate of Occupancy shall not be granted for this Project until all requirements specified in the memos re: Density Bonus for 5th & West Multifamily Development dated June 19, 2015 are met.” Staff shall verify that all requirements have been met before issuing a certificate of occupancy by checking with Jorge Rousselin of the Urban Design Division, Planning and Development Review Department, at jorge.rousselin@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-2975. Requirements to be fulfilled before a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) may be granted for this Project: 1. Fees to be paid: Total Development Bonus Fee of $484,031.10 to be paid to the City of Austin and deposited into the Neighborhood Housing and Community Development (NHCD) Office’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund. This fee will be received in person or by mail at the NHCD offices Page 1 of 3 located at 1000 E. 11th Street, 2nd …
DOWNTOWN DENSITY BONUS PROGRAM (DDBP) SUBMITTAL APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS A property owner (Owner) or his/her representative (Applicant) acting on behalf of the Owner can initiate an administrative request to the Director of Planning (Director) seeking additional Floor-to-Area (FAR) entitlements as outlined in 25-2-586 Downtown Density Bonus Program. In order for the Director to conduct an administrative review, the requirements listed below must be submitted. Once an application is deemed complete, the Director will inform the Applicant of review commencement. The following submittals are required in a complete PDF package of no more than 10 Mb in size with sheets no larger than 11x17 inches: 1. Completed DDBP Application; 2. Vicinity plan/aerial locating the project in its context, and showing a minimum 9 block area around the project; 3. Location and nature of nearby transit facilities; 4. Drawings (submitted drawings should demonstrate compliance with Subchapter E Design Standards, as applicable): o Site plan; o Floor plans; o Exterior elevations (all sides); o Three-dimensional views; 5. As part of the gatekeeper requirements, submit copy of the projects signed Austin Energy Green Building Letter of Intent; and 6. Other items that may be submitted but not required: Narrative / graphics / photos to further describe the project. 7. Coordination memo acknowledgment from the City of Austin’s Neighborhood Housing and Community Development Department (NHCD) detailing affordable housing community benefits. Please contact Ms. Jessi Koch at NHCD for more information. DOWNTOWN DENSITY BONUS PROGRAM (DDBP) SUBMITTAL APPLICATION 1. Project Name: 2. Property Owner Name: Address: Phone: E-mail: 3. Applicant/Authorized Agent Name: Address: Phone: E-mail: 4. Anticipated Project Address: Page 1 of 7 5. Site Information a. Lot area: b. Existing zoning (include any zoning suffixes such as “H,” “CO,” etc. If the property has a conditional overlay (CO), provide explanation of conditions (attach additional pages as necessary) : c. Existing entitlements: i) Current floor to area (FAR) limitation: ii) Current height limitation (in feet): iii) Affected by Capitol View Corridors (CVCs) Yes/No? Yes No If yes, please list specific CVC and allowable maximum height. 6. Existing Deed Restrictions If any, detail existing deed restrictions on the property that impact height and/or density: Page 2 of 2 7. Proposed Project Information a. Total square footage - Only include the square footage that counts towards FAR; see LDC 25-1-21(40), (44), and (45): b. Gross floor area devoted to the different land use categories included in the project (e.g., …
405 Colorado Street W. 5th St Congress Ave Brazos St Lavaca St W. 4th St Colorado St 1001 Congress Ave., Ste. 250 Austin, TX 78701 512-212-4114 405 Colorado - B-Cycle Sta(cid:415)on Loca(cid:415)ons Nueces St. San Antonio St. Guadalupe St. W. 2nd St Cesar Chavez St. Lavaca St. W. 4th St. Colorado St. W. 5th St. Congress Ave. E. 6th St. Brazos St. E. 3rd St. E. (cid:1012)th St. E. 7th St. San Jacinto St. Trinity St. Neches St. 1001 Congress Ave., Ste. 250 Aus(cid:415)n, Texas 7(cid:1012)701 512-212-4114
WEST EAST BUILDING ELEVATIONS JUNE 14, 2016 405 COLORADO STREET EAST - WEST NORTH - SOUTH BUILDING SECTIONS JUNE 14, 2016 405 COLORADO STREET FRANK RESTAURANT PARKING ACCESS T E E R T S O D A R O L O C t n e m h c a o c n E r y p o n a C ” 0 - ’ 5 CONCIERGE/ SECURITY DESK LOBBY 3,373 SF RETAIL 3,010 SF SHUTTLE ELEVATORS LOADING AREA Y E L L A C L B U P I Canopy Encroachment 1,265 SF 8’-0” Canopy Encroachment 5’-0” Canopy Encroachment WEST 4TH STREET SCALE: 1/32”=1’-0” SITE PLAN SUBMISSION 405 COLORADO STREET MAY17, 2016 PROPERTY LINE MECH. FIRE/ SERVICE MEN WOMEN TELECOM. ELEC. JANITOR OFFICE 18,841 GSF 5’-0” West Encroachment 5’-0” East Encroachment 5’-0” Max. South Encroachment MAX. ENCROACHMENT AREA 1,088 GSF LEVEL 19 GREATEST CANTILEVER SITE PLAN SUBMISSION SCALE: 1/32”=1’-0” 405 COLORADO STREET MAY17, 2016 L24 L23 L22 L21 L20 L19 L18 L17 L16 L15 L14 SKY LOBBY P12 P11 P10 P9 P8 P7 P6 P5 P4 P3 P2 P1 M L24 L23 L22 L21 L20 L19 L18 L17 L16 L15 L14 SKY LOBBY P12 P11 P10 P9 P8 P7 P6 P5 P4 P3 P2 P1 M SITE PLAN SUBMISSION SCALE: 1/64”=1’-0” 405 COLORADO STREET MAY17, 2016 LOBBY PLAN JUNE 14, 2016 405 COLORADO STREET EAST - WEST STREET SECTION COLORADO STEET PLAN JUNE 14, 2016 405 COLORADO STREET EAST - WEST STREET SECTION COLORADO STEET PLAN JUNE 14, 2016 405 COLORADO STREET NORTH- SOUTH STREET SECTION 4TH STEET PLAN JUNE 14, 2016 405 COLORADO STREET NORTH- SOUTH STREET SECTION 4TH STEET PLAN JUNE 14, 2016 405 COLORADO STREET (cid:29)(cid:16)(cid:2)(cid:4) (cid:1)(cid:14)(cid:17)(cid:5)(cid:3) (cid:29)(cid:16)(cid:2)(cid:4) (cid:1)(cid:2)(cid:3)(cid:4)(cid:5)(cid:6)(cid:2)(cid:7)(cid:8)(cid:9)(cid:10)(cid:10)(cid:11) (cid:12)(cid:2)(cid:13)(cid:14)(cid:5)(cid:10)(cid:15)(cid:16)(cid:2) (cid:23)(cid:15)(cid:22)(cid:24)(cid:7)(cid:21)(cid:22) (cid:27)(cid:5)(cid:25)(cid:2)(cid:7)(cid:1)(cid:14)(cid:9)(cid:3)(cid:17)(cid:26)(cid:2) (cid:1)(cid:14)(cid:17)(cid:5)(cid:3) (cid:18)(cid:2)(cid:6)(cid:19)(cid:17)(cid:20)(cid:5)(cid:6)(cid:17)(cid:16)(cid:7)(cid:21)(cid:22) (cid:28)(cid:6)(cid:6)(cid:15)(cid:24)(cid:17)(cid:20)(cid:14)(cid:7)(cid:1)(cid:14)(cid:9)(cid:3)(cid:17)(cid:26)(cid:2) (cid:23)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:25)(cid:5)(cid:20)(cid:26)(cid:7)(cid:18)(cid:17)(cid:20)(cid:17)(cid:26)(cid:2)(cid:3) (cid:23)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:25)(cid:5)(cid:20)(cid:26)(cid:7)(cid:1)(cid:19)(cid:15)(cid:14)(cid:14)(cid:16)(cid:2)(cid:13) GARAGE LEVEL - ENTRY JUNE 14, 2016 405 COLORADO STREET SOUTH ELEVATION 4TH STEET PLAN JUNE 14, 2016 405 COLORADO STREET WEST ELEVATION COLORADO STEET PLAN JUNE 14, 2016 405 COLORADO STREET BIKE RACKS LIGHT POLE CONCRETE DRIVEWAY CONCRETE SIDEWALK FACING BENCHES STREET TREE (SHUMARD RED OAK) IN IRON TREE GRATE EXISTING SCULPTURE CONCRETE PAVERS (OLD TOWN BLEND) CONCRETE PAVERS (GRAY CITY STONE) LIGHT POLE RECYCLING CAN TRASH CAN FACING BENCHES CONCRETE PAVERS (OLD TOWN BLEND) BIKE RACKS CAFE TABLES LIGHT POLE BUILT-IN BAR/WALL STONE PAVERS CONCRETE PAVERS (ANTIQUE TERRA COTTA) AT-GRADE PLANT BED STREET TREE (CEDAR ELM) IN HIDDEN PAVER GRATE 1,239 SF 405 COLORADO : SITE RENDERING WITH …
405 Colorado Design CommissionMeeting Austin, Texas 04-24-2017 Project Team • Brandywine Realty Trust • Land Use Solutions, LLC • Duda|Paine Architects, LLC • Coleman and Associates • Stantec DESIGN COMMISSION 405 COLORADO STREET APRIL 24, 2017 Request • Design Commission review for substantial compliance with Urban Design Guidelines • Density Bonus: 13:1 FAR • Staff Approved Great Streets • 2-star Austin Energy Green Building (LEED Silver) DESIGN COMMISSION 405 COLORADO STREET APRIL 24, 2017 Proposed Project Density Bonus Request: CBD Zoning FAR: Maximum FAR: Requested FAR: 8:1 25:1 13:1 DESIGN COMMISSION 405 COLORADO STREET APRIL 24, 2017 Project Overview Surface parking lot – 18,439 sf Existing: Proposed: Office: 230,000 sf Details: DESIGN COMMISSION Restaurant: 3,665 sf 25 levels • 13 levels of office, restaurant and amenities • 1 sky lobby • 1 ground floor restaurant • 11 levels ofparking • 1 level mezzanine 405 COLORADO STREET APRIL 24, 2017 City Context - Property Location DESIGN COMMISSION 405 COLORADO STREET APRIL 24, 2017 City Context - Property Location DESIGN COMMISSION 405 COLORADO STREET APRIL 24, 2017 City Context – Small Site SMALL SITE 18,439 SF Coffee DESIGN COMMISSION 405 COLORADO STREET APRIL 24, 2017 Existing Conditions LOOKING WEST ON 4TH STREET DESIGN COMMISSION 405 COLORADO STREET APRIL 24, 2017 Existing Conditions LOOKING EAST ON 4TH STREET DESIGN COMMISSION 405 COLORADO STREET APRIL 24, 2017 Existing Conditions LOOKING NORTH ON 4TH STREET DESIGN COMMISSION 405 COLORADO STREET APRIL 24, 2017 City Context – Capitol View Corridor DOWNTOWN WAREHOUSE DISTRICT DESIGN COMMISSION 405 COLORADO STREET APRIL 24, 2017 City Context DOWNTOWN WAREHOUSE DISTRICT DESIGN COMMISSION 405 COLORADO STREET APRIL 24, 2017 C i t y C o n t e x t - Downtown Plan CORE/WATERFRONT DISTRICT DESIGN COMMISSION 405 COLORADO STREET APRIL 24, 2017 City Context - Warehouse District DESIGN COMMISSION 405 COLORADO STREET APRIL 24, 2017 City Context AREA AMENITIES DESIGN COMMISSION 405 COLORADO STREET APRIL 24, 2017 Support - Downtown Plan • Office and Restaurant: • • Promote ground-level retail and restaurant uses along particular Downtown streets. Provide incentives for Downtown office and employment uses. • Parking Available to Public: • Public parking facility is the third-highest scoring need for the Core/Waterfront District. • Warehouse District and 2nd Street District need more parking, particularly at night, per the Walker Study. DESIGN COMMISSION 405 COLORADO STREET APRIL 24, 2017 Public Outreach • Downtown Austin Alliance • Downtown Austin NeighborhoodAssociation • 6ixth …
405 Colorado DDBP Photos taken 4-21-25 by Sophia Benner 405 Colorado DDBP Photos taken 4-21-25 by Sophia Benner 405 Colorado DDBP Photos taken 4-21-25 by Sophia Benner 5th & West DDBP Photos taken 4-21-25 by Sophia Benner 5th & West DDBP Photos taken 4-21-25 by Sophia Benner
Austin Design Commission Date: To: Subject: May 22, 2017 City of Austin Staff Review of 405 Colorado for substantial compliance with the Urban Design Guidelines Applicant: Michelle Haussmann (Land Use Solutions) DC Action: The motion to approve the working group letter, which states that the project as presented does not substantially comply with the Urban Design Guidelines, was made by S. Franco; second by E. Tani- guchi. The motion passed on a unanimous vote of [8-0]. A. Coleman recused; D. Carroll not present. David Carroll, Chair The project location is 401-405 Colorado Street. Bart Whatley, Vice Chair Aan Coleman Beau Frail Samuel Franco Martha Gonzalez Katie Halloran Conor Kenny Melissa Henao-Robledo Existing zoning for the project is CBD. The project design includes office, retail uses and public parking. The lot area is 0.42 acres (18,439 sq ft), and the total proposed project area is 233,146 sq ft. The FAR for this project is 13:1, above the 8:1 maximum allowance for CBD zoning, so an increase in FAR of 5:1 is being requested. The proposed building height is 363 feet; essentially 13 stories of parking garage and 12 stories of office/retail. Per the Density Bonus Program ordinance, the applicant is required to provide streetscape improvements along all public street frontages consistent with the Great Streets Standards, and the applicant shall commit to a minimum of 2 star Green Building rating. The Mayor and City Council and the Planning & Development Review Director will determine appropriate bonus area in light of community benefits to be provided. Evan Taniguchi DESIGN COMMISSION COMMENTS REGARDING PROJECT’S COMPLIANCE WITH URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES Katie Mulholland, Executive Liaison Nichole Koerth, Staff Liaison 2. AREA WIDE GUIDELINES 1. Create dense development- 13 stories of parking and only 12 stories of habitable space is not increasing density as intended by the Urban Design Guidelines (UDG) of the Density Bonus Program. This section specifically encourages walkability and reduces reliance on cars. Less parking and more habitable space is preferred. The Working Group does not believe that this project complies with this section. Create mixed-use development- Only 19.5% of Ground Floor (street level) is mixed-use and only designed for one tenant. Only 1.94% of total building area is mixed-use. Buildings must Design Commission - 405 Colorado Page 1 of 3 have 25% or more of their floor area as a different use to comply. Parking is not considered a mixed-use in the …
DESIGN COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20250428-002 Date: April 28, 2025 Subject: Austin Convention Center Redevelopment Motioned By: Commissioner Wittstruck Seconded By: Chair Salinas Recommendation Motion to recommend that the Austin Convention Center Redevelopment project complies with and elevates the City’s Sustainability Standards and substantially complies with the City’s Design Standards; however, with respect to the unique size and civic importance of the project, the Design Commission recommends that the project team continue to strengthen the urban design for the project specifically to more ardently and comprehensively address the following Urban Design Guidelines: · PS.1 – Protect the Pedestrian Where the Building Meets the Street, including but not limited to providing more consistent and larger awnings protecting pedestrians around the full building rather than solely at building entrances. · PS.12 – Provide General Street-Level Windows, including but not limited to providing more street level fenestration in general and avoiding major grade separations between the building plinth and street. · PZ.1 – Treat the Four Squares with Special Consideration, including but not limited to more strongly articulating the plaza space’s relationship to Brush Square, including for future phases; and situating outdoor seating and retail uses facing the square. · PZ.2 – Contribute to an Open Space Network, including but not limited to more strongly articulating and emphasizing the project’s relationship to the Red Line Parkway, Palm Park and Waterloo Greenway. · PZ.3 – Emphasize Connections to Parks and Greenways, including but not limited to providing a direct connection to Waller Creek and the Waterloo Greenway and creating a direct, physical connection with the Greenway and creek. · B.2 – Provide Multi-Tenant, Pedestrian Oriented Development at the Street Level, including but not limited to providing third-party mixed commercial and retail uses on all building facades facing streets; and anchoring all corners of the building with tenants that will contribute to general street life. Vote: 7-0 For: Chair Salinas, Vice Chair Meiners, Commissioner Carroll, Commissioner Gelles, Commissioner Ladner, Commissioner Murkes, Commissioner Wittstruck Against: Abstain: Recuse: Commissioner McKinney 1 of 2 Absent: Commissioner Howard, Commissioner Khan, Commissioner Luckens Attest: Jon Salinas, AIA Chair – Design Commission District 2 2 of 2
DESIGN COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, APRIL 28, 2025 The Design Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, April 28, 2025, at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405, located at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin, Texas. Chair Salinas called the Design Commission meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Jon Salinas, Chair David Carroll Conners Ladner Jenny Murkes Brendan Wittstruck Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Josue Meiners, Vice Chair Nkiru Gelles Marissa McKinney – Commissioner McKinney joined the meeting at 6:16 p.m. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Design Commission regular meeting on March 24, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of 03/24/2025 were approved on Commissioner Wittstruck’s motion, Commissioner Carroll’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner McKinney was off the dais. Commissioners Howard, Khan, and Luckens were absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 1 2. 3. 4. Discussion and action to recommend to City Council whether the project Austin Convention Center Redevelopment, located at 500 East 3rd Street, complies with the City Design and Sustainability Standards as presented to the Design Commission on March 24, 2025. Sponsors: Chair Salinas and Commissioner Wittstruck. There was a motion to recommend to City Council that the project Austin Convention Center Redevelopment, located at 500 East 3rd Street, as presented to the Design Commission on March 24, 2025, complies with and elevates the City’s Sustainability Standards and substantially complies with the City’s Design Standards; however, with respect to the unique size and civic importance of the project, the Design Commission recommends that the project team continue to strengthen the urban design for the project specifically to more ardently and comprehensively address the following Urban Design Guidelines: PS.1 – Protect the Pedestrian Where the Building Meets the Street, including but not limited to providing more consistent and larger awnings protecting pedestrians around the full building rather than solely at building entrances. PS.12 – Provide General Street-Level Windows, including but not limited to providing more street level fenestration in general and avoiding major grade separations between the building plinth and street. PZ.1 – Treat the Four Squares with Special Consideration, including but not limited to more strongly articulating the plaza space’s relationship to Brush Square, including for future phases; and situating outdoor seating and retail uses facing the square. PZ.2 – Contribute to an Open Space Network, including but not limited to more …
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION College Student Commission Recommendation Number: (2025MMDD-XXX) (XXX is the agenda item number): Renewing College Food Insecurity Grant Program WHEREAS, The College Student Commission passed Recommendation 20210122-3b: College Food Insecurity Grant Program in January 2021; and WHEREAS, The College Student Commission passed Recommendation 20230324-10: Continuing College Food Insecurity Grant Program in March 2023; and WHEREAS, there are over 100,000 college students in the City of Austin, living across all 10 council districts, including students at Austin Community College, Concordia University, Huston-Tillotson University, St. Edwards University, and the University of Texas at Austin; and WHEREAS, the College Food Access Grant Program is designed to allow applicants to address food access in the manner that will best support their campuses through mini-grants; and WHEREAS, learning from student experiences is crucial to addressing food insecurity, and the program model is designed to facilitate student input in grant proposals; and WHEREAS, the College Food Access Grant Program was allocated $50,000 in direct support and $7,500 to support administration as part of the City of Austin's FY 2021-2022 Budget; and WHEREAS, the College Food Access Grant Program was allocated $100,000 in direct support and $7,500 to support administration as part of the City of Austin's FY 2023-2024 Budget; and WHEREAS, the Central Texas Food bank administered the College Food Access Grant program during the 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 academic years, providing funding to 4 colleges; and WHEREAS, food insecurity continues to affect Austin-area college campuses with rising costs of food, housing, and other resources; and WHEREAS, throughout the previous periods, colleges experienced higher than expected use of food pantries funded by this program; and WHEREAS, this program was not renewed in the FY 2024-2025 budget, leaving food pantries on some campuses struggling to maintain an adequate supply of food; and WHEREAS, creating a more equitable and affordable city is an ongoing process, and current students are in need of immediate relief; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the College Student Commission recommends Austin City Council allocate $107,500 in ongoing funding for the College Food Access Grant Program for the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 budget. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: Attest: _____________________________________________
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION College Student Commission Recommendation Number: (2025MMDD-XXX) (XXX is the agenda item number): Designating Austin’s Public Libraries as “Book Sanctuaries” WHEREAS, the State of Texas has routinely been a national leader in the number of books banned from libraries and school curriculums throughout the state; and WHEREAS, as of October 2024, PEN America found 538 instances of book bans across Texas; and WHEREAS, the Texas Legislature passed the READER Act, HB 900, during the 88th Legislative Session, which requires school libraries to remove books based on vague standards; and WHEREAS, across the nation, book bans predominantly impact books written by or featuring characters who are members of minority groups or the LGBTQIA+ community; and WHEREAS, books that have been banned throughout the state overwhelmingly deal with topics such as race, gender, and sexuality, as well as literature critical of authoritarian governments; and WHEREAS, access to knowledge and creative works, especially those that the government finds objectionable, is an essential facet of a free society; and WHEREAS, access to varying points of view is an essential aspect of higher education, where students of different backgrounds ought to be free to be exposed to diversity of thought. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the College Student Commission recommends that the Austin City Council designate Austin’s public libraries as “Book Sanctuaries” and guarantee that the city’s libraries will continue to offer for public access books that have been banned in K-12 and higher education curriculums or otherwise removed from libraries throughout Texas. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: Attest: _____________________________________________
REGULAR MEETING of the COLLEGE STUDENT COMMISSION April 25th, 2025, AT 3:00 PM AUSTIN CITY HALL, Board and Commission Room 1101 301 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701 Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once, either in-person or remotely, and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register please contact Dr. Chiquita Eugene by email at chiquita.eugene@austintexas.gov or by phone at 512- 972-5003. Some members of the commission may be participating by videoconference. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Mariama Mbacke, Austin Community College Elisha McGreggor, Austin Community College Andrew Lyons, Austin Community College Aidyn Ogle, Concordia University Lorian Lopez, Concordia University Carson Domey, University of Texas at Austin Halle Kocian, University of Texas at Austin Mariana Ponce, University of Texas at Austin Caleb Brizuela, Huston-Tillotson University Dominic Polidor, Huston-Tillotson University Prisca Dhital, Huston-Tillotson University Charlie Mossberger, St. Edward’s University Jake Hamerslough, St. Edward’s University AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the College Student Commission Regular Meeting from April 4, 2025. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Introduction of new commissioners and assignment to working groups. Presentation from City of Austin 3-1-1 department on services their department provides and how college students can utilize 3-1-1. Chair and Vice Chair Elections. Update on the College Student Commission bylaws meeting requirement. Discussion on the status of food pantries on all campuses; voting on recommendation. Discussion on banned books; voting on recommendation. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 7. 8. Update from TRANSPORTATION working group on if they were able to meet. Update from MENTAL HEALTH working group on campus services. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Dr. Chiquita Eugene at the Youth Initiatives Office, at (512-972-5003), for …
College Student Commission Meeting Minutes 25, April, 2025 COLLEGE STUDENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 25, APRIL, 2025 The College Student Commission convened in a regular meeting on 25, April 2025 at 301 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701 in Austin, Texas. Chair Charlie Mossberger called the College Student Commission Meeting to order at 3:30 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Charlie Mossberger, Halle Kocian, Andrew Lyon, Elisha Mac Greggor Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Caleb Brizuela, Jacob Hamerslough, Mariama Mbacke, Mariana Ponce PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. The motion to approve the minutes of the College Student Commission Regular Meeting on April 4th, 2025, was approved on Jacob Hamerslough’s motion, Andrew Lyon’s second on an 8-0 vote. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. None DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. None PUBLIC HEARINGS None 4. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Presentation by Brynn McCurly, Public Information Specialist Senior, Austin 3-1-1, presented on how to submit service requests, code violations and other non-emergency issues through 3-1-1. Andrew Lyon was elected chair on an 8-0 vote. 6. 1 College Student Commission Meeting Minutes 25, April, 2025 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. Caleb Brizuela was elected vice chair on an 8-0 vote. The motion to update the College Student Commission Bylaws from a monthly meeting requirement to 4 meetings a year was approved on Andrew Lyon’s motion, Jacob Hamerslough’s second on an 8-0 vote. The motion to amend Recommendation 20250425-005: Renewing College Food Insecurity Grant Program was approved on Jacob Hamerslough’s motion, Andrew Lyon’s second on an 8-0 vote. The motion to approve Recommendation 20250425-005: Renewing College Food Insecurity Grant Program was approved on Jacob Hamerslough’s motion, Aidyn Ogden’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Carson Domey, Dominic Polidor, and Prisca Dhital were absent. The motion to amend Recommendation 20250425-006: Designating Austin’s Public Libraries as “Book Sanctuaries” was approved on Jacob Hamerslough’s motion, Aidyn Ogden’s second on an 8-0 vote. The motion to approve Recommendation 20250425-006: Designating Austin’s Public Libraries as “Book Sanctuaries” was approved on Jacob Hamerslough’s motion, Mariama Mbkacke’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Carson Domey, Dominic Polidor, and Prisca Dhital were absent. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 13. Update from TRANSPORTATION WORKING GROUP: The Transportation Working Group had no update. Update was given by Jacob Hamerslough. 14. Update from MENTAL HEALTH WORKING GROUP. The Mental Health Working Group is interested in having more commissioners be a part of the working group. Update was given …
JOINT SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE HYBRID MEETING FORMAT April 23, 2025 at 6 pm City Hall – Council Chambers 301 W 2nd St, Austin TX 78701 Some members of the Committee may be participating by videoconference Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, email or call Rohan Lilauwala at (Rohan.lilauwala@austintexas.gov or 512-974-9394). Alternate Randall Chapman Member Kaiba White (Chair) Charlotte Davis (Vice-Chair) Genell Gary Diana Wheeler Haris Qureshi Melissa Rothrock Vacant Vacant Richard Brimer Craig Nazor Miriam Garcia Rosamaria Murillo Luis Osta Lugo Vacant Shelby Orme Ben Luckens Alberta Phillips Vacant Vacant CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Home Commission Electric Utility Commission Resource Management Commission Urban Transportation Commission Environmental Commission Zero Waste Advisory Commission Community Development Commission Austin Travis County Food Policy Board Marissa Bell Economic Prosperity Commission Water & Wastewater Commission Parks & Recreation Board Design Commission Planning Commission Austin/Travis County Public Health Commission City Council Mayor’s Representative Mayor’s Representative Mayor’s Representative Mayor’s Representative Mayor’s Representative Amy Noel Chris Maxwell-Gaines Lane Becker Vacant Vacant Natalie Poindexter Vacant Rodrigo Leal Anna Scott Yure Suarez Christopher Campbell Heather Houser For more information, please visit: www.austintexas.gov/jsc AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes from the March 26th, 2025 meeting of the Joint Sustainability Committee DISCUSSION 2. 2026 Bond Development Process – Eric Bailey and Marcus Hammer, Capital Delivery Services Department; Braden Latham-Jones, Office of Climate Action and Resilience 3. I-35 Cap and Stitch Updates – Michelle Marx, Transportation and Public Works Department 4. Update from the Electric Utility Commission on the Solar for All Program – Kaiba White, Electric Utility Commission DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Recommendations for Climate and Sustainability in the 2026 Bond 6. Recommendation on the I-35 Cap and Stitch 7. JSC officer elections for the 2025-2026 term FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications …
JOINT SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE REGULAR MEETING MEETING MINUTES March 26, 2025 The Joint Sustainability Committee convened in a hybrid meeting via videoconferencing and at Austin Energy Headquarters. Board Members in Attendance in Person: Anna Scott, Haris Qureshi, Kaiba White, Charlotte Davis Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Heather Houser, Christopher Campbell, Marissa Bell, Lane Becker, Rodrigo Leal, Melissa Rothrock, Yure Suarez Board Members Absent: Chris Maxwell-Gaines, Amy Noel, Chris Crookham, Alberta Phillips, Diana Wheeler City Staff in Attendance: Rohan Lilauwala, Braden Latham-Jones, Michelle Marx CALL TO ORDER Chair Kaiba White called the meeting to order at 6:29 pm. Public Communication • Adam Greenfield on item 2, in favor of the Austin Core Transportation Plan. Suggestion to convert all remaining one-way streets to two-way streets. Also in support of protected bike lanes, bus lanes, trees. • Scott Johnson speaks in favor of low-carbon concrete and residential landscape incentive program. • Zenobia Joseph speaking in opposition to light rail plans on civil rights grounds. 1. Approval of minutes from the February 26th, 2025 meeting of the Joint Sustainability Committee. • Qureshi motion, Scott second, passes on a 10-0 vote (Suarez off dais). DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Austin Core Transportation Plan Update – Michelle Marx, Transportation and Public Works Department. • Qureshi – does this change transit routing? Marx – CapMetro has provided info on routing that has been incorporated into the plan. • White – should JSC consider recommendation to maximize one-way to two-way conversions. Marx – not a panacea for improving safety. With tight intersection spacing in East Downtown, allows for signal coordination to reduce speeds. Context dependent – would work in places with wide streets, widely spaced intersections. 3. CapMetro Sustainability Updates – David Carr, CapMetro • Qureshi – can you comment on lack of electric buses on new rapid routes? Carr – Proterra bankruptcy has affected commissioning of new buses. New Flyer buses in service now. Charging infrastructure still being installed – especially in-route charging. • White – why is CapMetro backing away from electric bus purchases? Carr – very expensive. MetroRapid costs being covered by grants and other sources. Range performance capabilities aren’t there yet. • Carr – issues with a lack of parts and service from Proterra. New company has taken over – CapMetro pause until they catch up with servicing and parts. Nationwide issue. • Rothrock - can charging infrastructure be shared? Carr – theoretically, yes. New buses use …
Capital Delivery Services Public Improvement Bond Program Integrated Bond Program Development and Delivery Plan Joint Sustainability Committee Update Eric Bailey Deputy Director Capital Delivery Services “Effectively and Efficiently Deliver Quality Projects with the Concept of Speed” 1 AGENDA • CDS Overview • What is a General Obligation Bond Program? • Improved Bond Development Process • Staff Work Completed to Date • Guiding Principles, Technical Criteria, & Scoring Matrices • Progress to Date & Upcoming Milestones “Effectively and Efficiently Deliver Quality Projects with the Concept of Speed” 2 Created in 2023 with the goal of reducing project delivery time Who we are • Engineers • Architects • Project managers • Community Engagement Our partners • Consultants • Contracting teams • City asset owners • Community members • Mayor & Council Role in 2026 Bond Program One City – One Team – One Approach to effectively and efficiently deliver quality public projects. • Convene asset owner departments to develop needs assessment • Guide the process to ensure projects are vetted and scopes/schedules/budgets are accurate and realistic • Coordinate projects across departments to achieve mutual benefits What is a General Obligation Bond Program? Typical Bond Projects: • Flood and Erosion Control Improvements • New or Replacement City Facilities • Rehabilitation of Existing Facilities • Housing Infrastructure/Housing Projects • Street and Thoroughfare Improvements o Sidewalks o Traffic Signals • Park and Recreation Facilities • Public Safety Facilities (Fire/EMS/Police) • Land Purchase 4 What is a General Obligation Bond Program? Types of work NOT included: • Routine operations and maintenance activities o Potholes o Minor street repair o Landscaping maintenance o General building maintenance Improvements for short term leased space • • Code enforcement initiatives • Employee salaries (including police & fire) • AE/AW Capital Projects typically funded by using debt are funded via AE and AW revenue bonds, not General Obligation debt and thus are not for the 2026 GO Bond Program City of Austin | Capital Delivery Services Department | One City, One Team, One Approach to Capital Delivery 5 Improved Bond Delivery Process for 2026 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 Council calls for Bond Election (Aug) Bond Election (Nov) BEATF Meetings, Council, and Public Engagement HOW WE’VE DONE BONDS IN THE PAST: Project Proposals RFP’s/RFQ’s Project Planning to develop scope, schedule, budget Design Construction WHAT WE’RE DOING NOW: Needs Assessment and Project Evaluation Project Planning to develop scope, …
2026 Bond Development Update Joint Sustainability Committee - 4.23.25 Resolution 20240718-093 Resolution 20240718-093 was approved in July 2024. Staff was directed to bring two items to Council. 1. A comprehensive bond package that funds and addresses climate, infrastructure, and any other public improvements for the purpose of conducting an election no later than November 2026, and 2. A comprehensive climate implementation program of which one component is a climate bond proposition contained in the comprehensive bond package. Funding for this implementation program shall not be limited to general obligation bonds but should include grants, fees, utilities, general fund, cost sharing, etc. 2 OCAR’s Role ● Lead ● Advise ● Coordinate 3 How OCAR is supporting the bond process ● Lead: Developed a list of GO bond eligible projects that support climate action ○ Environmental Investment Plan ○ Comprehensive Climate Implementation Program ● Advise: Subject Matter Expert (SME)- Supporting Asset Owner Departments ○ Answering Questions ○ Developing Criteria ○ Advising Departments ● Coordinate: Participating in cross-departmental bond development working group. 4 Definitions Sustainability: Actions that avoid, reduce, or capture greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change. Resilience: Actions that increase our ability to prepare for, withstand, and recover from shocks and stressors related to climate change. Climate Equity & Resilience Framework Climate Equity Plan — Mitigation Resilience & Climate Adaptation Actions that avoid, reduce, or capture greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change. Actions that increase our ability to prepare for and recover from shocks and stressors related to a changing climate. Sustainable Buildings, Energy Generation, and Water Demand Transportation Electrification Natural Systems Regional Collaboration & Green Jobs Climate and Environmental Data, Research, & Modeling Long Range Planning Recovery & Economic Resilience Materials, Purchasing, Food and Product Consumption Mass Transit, Planning, Land Use, and Housing Social Infrastructure and Community Preparedness Green Infrastructure (creeks, rivers, trees, landscape) Utility Infrastructure (water, power, drainage) Equity and Affordability Strategies for consideration 1. Projects funded by a bond (that meet all the criteria for voter approved bonds) which directly address climate change (reducing GHG emissions or adapting to a changing climate). Example: Land purchase to protect water quality, ecosystem protection, and carbon sequestration. 2. Integration of principles, policies, and approaches to reduce GHG emissions and increase resilience to a changing climate into Departmental Bond Proposals. Example: New library is built, achieves LEED Platinum certification, has solar + batteries to serve the community in times of need. …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Joint Sustainability Committee Recommendation Number 20250423-006: I-35 Cap-and-Stitch WHEREAS, the Joint Sustainability Committee and the Office of Climate Action and Resilience have identified billions of dollars of needed investments to meet the goals of the Austin Climate Equity Plan; and WHEREAS, there is not currently sufficient funding from taxes, financing, grants or other sources to meet all needed local climate investment needs; and WHEREAS, climate investments will already be competing with all other community needs (such as pools, senior centers, and libraries) when bonds are put forward to voters in 2026; and WHEREAS, capping and stitching segments of I-35 won’t advance the goals of the Austin Climate Equity Plan because this strategy won’t reduce greenhouse gas emissions; and WHEREAS, capping and stitching segments of I-35 won’t reduce local air pollution at the regional or neighborhood level;1 and WHEREAS, capping and stitching segments of I-35 will require a tremendous amount of concrete and steel, both of which contain embedded greenhouse gas emissions from their production, resulting in increase in Austin greenhouse gas footprint; and WHEREAS, the large fans that will be installed to run when traffic is stopped under the caps (which is likely to be often), will require energy to run and will increase the city’s greenhouse gas footprint; and WHEREAS, the ongoing cost of maintaining the caps will be a perpetual drain on already-tight city finances, forcing more trade-offs that will likely reduce funding availability for climate projects; and 1 Neighborhood level air pollution could be improved if longer sections of the highway were capped and the air from inside the tunnel was captured and vented high into the air, but this would still contribute to the region’s air pollution. WHEREAS, air pollution is well-known to be elevated beyond healthy levels within 500-1,000 feet of major roadways, especially busy highways like I-35; and WHEREAS, the “park” resulting from capping the segment of I-35 between Cesar Chavez St and 4th St would be adjacent to 8 lanes of traffic on one side and 20 lanes on either end, making this a high-risk area for children, the elderly and anyone with respiratory or cardiac conditions; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin owns or can purchase better quality and better situated land at a more affordable price that will better suit the needs of the community, compared to capping and stitching segments of I-35; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Joint Sustainability Committee Recommendation 20250423-005: Climate and Sustainability in the 2026 Bond Date: April 23, 2025 Subject: Recommendations for Climate and Sustainability in the 2026 Bond Motioned By: Kaiba White Seconded By: Charlotte Davis Recommendation The Joint Sustainability Committee recommends that the city contract with a qualified third party to conduct comprehensive climate impact analyses for each bond project under consideration. The consultant should also be tasked with recommending mitigation measures for any negative emissions or other impacts. The Joint Sustainability Committee also recommends that greenhouse gas mitigation and meeting the goals of the Austin Climate Equity Plan weigh heavily in the scoring criteria for project selection for all bond projects. The Joint Sustainability Committee also recommends that community impacts (including environmental, financial, and health) of all projects be evaluated. Impacts on underserved communities that are disproportionately impacted by environmental injustice should be carefully considered. The process outlined in the Equity Assessment Tool of the Austin Climate Equity Plan should be utilized. The results should be communicated to the community using a variety of methods that are accessible to residents of all demographics. Vote: 13-0 For: Kaiba White, Chris Maxwell-Gaines, Jon Salinas, Melissa Rothrock, Isabella Changsut, Charlotte Davis, Diana Wheeler, Shelby Orme, Marissa Bell, Alberta Phillips, Anna Scott, Heather Houser, Rodrigo Leal Against: Abstain: Absent: Amy Noel, Chris Crookham, Christopher Campbell, Yure Suarez O(cid:431) Dais: Attest: Rohan Lilauwala, Sta(cid:431) Liaison
