Austin Core Transportation (ACT) Plan Small Area Mobility Plan of the ASMP: Downtown Austin Urban Transportation Commission – March 4, 2025 Agenda • ACT Plan Purpose and Background • Planning Process • ACT Plan Project Recommendations • Implementation Plan • Next Steps 2 ACT Plan Purpose • The ACT Plan is a Small Area Mobility Plan covering Downtown Austin and will be adopted by Council as an attachment to the ASMP. • It is an update to previous transportation focused efforts Downtown – dating back to 2000 • Why are we updating the transportation plan for Downtown? • changes in transit and bicycle planning (Project Connect / Walk, Bike, Roll) • changes in highway improvements serving Downtown (CapEx 35) • changes in national best practices on urban street design (NACTO) • disruptions to traditional mobility • The ACT Plan will create a unified vision for transportation Downtown and align the many projects and initiatives under one actionable plan to help accomplish the goals in the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan. 3 Background • Great Streets Master Plan, 2001 • The goal of the Great Streets program is to pursue the vision of streets for people • Downtown Access and Mobility Plan, 2002 • The emphasis of the access and mobility study was on modeling and simulating intersection traffic operations and determining existing and future levels-of- service and operational needs • Downtown Transportation Framework, 2008 • The Downtown Transportation Framework Plan builds on the Great Streets Master Plan, further developing the system of “priority streets by mode”, and developing more detailed streetscape cross sections of all of the different street types and variations • Downtown Austin Plan, 2011 • Established the vision to develop a multimodal transportation system that improves access to and mobility within Downtown 2001 2002 2008 2011 4 Background • New policy • The Austin Strategic Mobility Plan (ASMP) aspires to achieve a 50/50 mode share where 50% of commuters use means other than driving alone to get to work in 2039 • Transit planning • The Project Connect Long Term Vision Plan established a High-Capacity Transit System and was adopted as an element of the ASMP – an initial investment was funded in 2020 2019 • Managing demand • Transportation Demand Management programming, parking policy, and curb management are becoming critical strategies to manage congestion • New street design • The Congress Avenue Urban Design Initiative shows how …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Urban Transportation Commission Recommendation Number 20250304-005: I-35 Frontage Road Crossings and Pedestrian Crossings WHEREAS, the City of Austin is considering an investment of over a billion dollars to create new public spaces covering portions of an expanded Interstate 35, through the Our Future 35 Cap and Stitch program; and WHEREAS wide, fast moving, frontage roads create physical and mental barriers that would disincentivize visiting the caps and reduce economic development opportunities surrounding them; and WHEREAS, TxDOT’s current designs for the I-35 Capital Express Central Project include frontage roads with up to eight travel lanes that people walking and bicycling would need to cross to access the caps or cross the freeway; and WHEREAS, most urban freeways in the United States are surrounded by city streets, not highway-grade frontage roads; and WHEREAS, in 2002, the Texas Transportation Commission acknowledged significant safety and efficiency concerns with frontage roads; and WHEREAS, street parking protects people walking and bicycling on sidewalks and shared use paths and encourages the use of nearby public spaces; WHEREAS, the City of Austin’s Cap and Stitch project is modeled after successful highway caps such as Klyde Warren Park in Dallas and the Rose Kennedy Greenway in Boston; and WHEREAS, the roads surrounding Klyde Warren Park and Rose Kennedy Greenway have two to four travel lanes in total (1-2 travel lanes in each direction) surrounding the caps, in contrast with the proposed frontage roads for the I-35 caps with up to eight travel lanes in some locations; and WHEREAS, the width of the roads adjacent to Klyde Warren Park are 40 feet, and the widths of roads adjacent to the proposed caps for I-35 are up to 100 feet; and WHEREAS, there is limited access to the northern cap due to the design of the frontage roads; and NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Urban Transportation Recommends that, throughout the length of the I-35 Capital Express Central Project, frontage roads should be designed as city streets per the following principles: Design should result in average speeds at or below safe urban speed limits, no higher than 30 miles per hour; The frontage roads should contain no more than 2 travel lanes in each direction throughout the length of the project; Lane widths should generally be 10 feet and no wider than 11 feet; Designs should include street trees along the entire corridor, generally …
Regular Meeting of the African American Resource Advisory Commission Tuesday, March 4, 2024, at 5:30 P.M. African American Cultural and Heritage Facility 912 East 11th Street Creativity Studio Austin, Texas 78702 Some members of the African American Resource Advisory Commission 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, call or email Ryan Sperling, 512- 874-3568, ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Roger Davis Elaina Fowler Kyron Hayes Anthony Jackson Antonio Ross Greg Smith CALL TO ORDER Dr. Chiquita Eugene Joi Harden Daryl Horton Nelson Linder Mueni Rudd AGENDA 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 African American Resource Advisory Commission regular meeting on February 4th, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS Briefing on the Facility Expansion Plan Phase 1 for the George Washington Carver Museum. Presentation by Marjorie Flanagan, Division Manager, Museums & Cultural Programs, Parks & Recreation Department. DISCUSSION ITEMS Presentation regarding updates to the Carver Center funding and the work done by the A3 Art Alliance Austin to support the Carver Center’s Artist Residency Program. Presentation by Laura Esparza, Executive Director, A3 Art Alliance Austin. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Approve recommendations to council regarding the FY25-26 budget as it relates to the African American Resource Advisory Commission. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 2. 3. 4. 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 contact Ryan Sperling, Office of the City Clerk at 512-974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the African American Resource Advisory Commission, please contact Ryan Sperling at 512-974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov.
1. African American Resource Advisory Commission REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, February 5th, 2025 The African American Resource Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, February 5th, 2025, at the African American Cultural & Heritage Facility at 912 E. 11th St. in Austin, Texas. Commissioner Davis called the African American Resource Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 5:40 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Roger Davis Dr. Chiquita Eugene Daryl Horton Nelson Linder Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Elaina Fowler Joi Harden Kyron Hayes Anthony Jackson Mueni Rudd Greg Smith PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Christine Pasculado – Carver Center Updates APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the African American Resource Advisory Commission Regular Meeting on October 1, 2024 The minutes were approved with an amendment to remove “Commissioner Eugene was off the dais” on all items on Commissioner Linder’s motion, Commissioner Horton’s second, on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Ross was absent. 1 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Conduct an emergency election for Commission officers. Commissioner Eugene nominated Commissioner Horton for the role of Chair with a second from Commissioner Linder. The motion to elect Commissioner Horton as chair was approved on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Ross was absent. Commissioner Eugene nominated herself for the role of Vice Chair with a second from Commissioner Linder. The motion to elect Commissioner Eugene as Vice Chair was approved on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Ross was absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Presentation from the President of Huston Tillotson University. Motion by Commissioner Rudd, second by Commissioner Linder. Presentation about the MLK Winter Parade. Motion by Commissioner Linder, second by Recommendation about Paramount Theatre renovation. Motion by Commissioner Fowler, Chair Horton second by Chair Horton Presentation about rehousing families displaced in the Rosewood Commubnity Courts. Motion by Commissioner Jackson, second by Chair Horton Chair Horton adjourned the meeting at 6:20 p.m. without objection. 2
Austin Parks and Recreation Department George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural and Genealogy Center Facility Expansion Phases 1a and 1b African American Resource Advisory Commission Tuesday, March 4, 2025 Overview • Meet the Team • Council-Approved 2021 Facility Expansion Plan • Carver Facility Expansion Phase 1a and 1b Improvements • Community Engagement • Next Steps • Stay Informed Meet the Team Parks and Recreation Department • Anthony “Tony” Hron, Associate Project Manager (SPOC) • Adrienne O’Keefe, Communications and Engagement Specialist • Marjorie Flanagan, Division Manager Museums and Cultural Programs • Carver Staff: Carre Adams, J. Savannah, Christine Pasculado, Dawn Burnside, and Freddie Crocheron Adisa Communications • Shuronda Robinson, CEO/President • Millie Williams, Project Manager Council-Approved 2021 Facility Expansion Plan A 2000 Feasibility Study outlined an expansion plan for the Carver Museum which led to the construction of the facility you see today. In 2021, Council approved a new Facility Expansion Plan, which incorporated extensive community engagement, ensuring the Carver remains a hub for history, education, and culture. Phase 1a and 1b are the first facility expansion recommendations identified in the 2021 plan. Carver Phase 1a and 1b Improvements Phase 1a: Building Renovations • New multi-purpose room in existing administrative suite • New mezzanine-level administrative suite above the museum • New elevator for accessing administrative suite • Relocation of Juneteenth statues Phase 1b: Outdoor Spaces & Site Improvements • New outdoor classrooms • New community garden • Renovation of existing public restrooms • New flexible event lawn with covered pavilion Community Engagement Scope Inform: • New mezzanine-level administrative suite above the museum (collaborate with Carver staff) • New elevator for accessing administrative suite • Renovation of existing public restrooms Involve: • New multi-purpose room in existing administrative suite • New outdoor classrooms • New community garden • New flexible event lawn with covered pavilion • Relocation of Juneteenth Statues Community Outreach Activities Social Media Neighborhood Meetings & Public Events Email Invites • • • Social Media Parks & Recreation George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center Adisa Communications • Meetings • Survey • Partnership with SoulCiti Flyers • Newsletters • • Distributed by Parks & Recreation COA Recreation Centers George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center Adisa Communications Carver Vision Semi-Permanent Installation Informational displays installed onsite • • Transparency Trust Relationship Building Stakeholder Meetings Website Online Survey Community Engagement Nine Community Meetings in December through February 10 Participants @ 12.5.24 Ambassador/ATX Foundation …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Urban Transportation Commission Recommendation No. 20250304-006: Austin Light Rail Draft Environmental Impact Statement D R A F T WHEREAS, the Project Connect Contract with the Voters defines project connect as “a highcapacity transit system, to address the City's transit needs for safer, faster, and more reliable transportation that will improve access to essential services, such as education, health care, grocery stores, childcare, and jobs, especially in historically underserved and underrepresented communities;” WHEREAS, the ballot language for Proposition A of the November 3rd, 2020 election noted that Project Connect would include “associated road, sidewalk, bike, and street lighting improvements;” WHEREAS, the Austin Transit Partnership (ATP) oversees the design, construction, and completion of the Project Connect Light Rail Implimnetation Plan; WHEREAS, on May 2nd, 2023 the City of Austin Urban Transportation Commission (UTC) recommended that the City of Austin and ATP engage “in a scoping project for multimodal investments to ensure light rail integrates with and expands Austin's existing and future pedestrian, bicycle, and transit connections;” WHEREAS, Project Connect is essential to accomplishing the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan’s 50/50 mode split goal by 2039; and WHERAS, on January 10th, 2025 ATP released the Draft Enviormental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Austin Light Rail Phase 1 Project; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the UTC recommends ATP move forward with all light rail design elements and options suggested in the Draft EIS; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the UTC recommends that, in keeping with the Contract with the Voters, ATP should prioritize right-of-way for pedestrians, bicyclists, micromobility users, and other transit options in future design iterations over preserving access for private auto traffic. Motioned by: Seconded by: Date of Approval: 3/4/2025 Record of the vote: Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign) D R A F T
African American Resource Advisory COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20250304-004 Seconded By: Date: March 4, 2025 Subject: Austin Public Library Black Literature Expansion Motioned By: Recommendation $1.5M Description of Recommendation to Council It is essential for the City of Austin to increase the budget of the Austin Public Library beyond the zero- based budget by $1.5M to support a meaningful investment in African American literature within the library's collection. This investment would not only benefit the African American community but also underscore Austin's dedication to embracing diversity and promoting equitable access to valuable literary resources. African American Literature would recommend including but not limited to playwrights, books on tape and digital, hardcopy, movies. including documentaries, and hosting black authors, playwriters and poets to come speak at the APL. Rationale: The current political climate is having a detrimental impact on youth and young adults who seek to connect with and learn from their cultural heritage through literature. This issue is particularly evident in the realm of African American authors and their works, which shed light on the struggles and experiences of African American communities. Public libraries are an integral part of our society, nurturing the minds of future generations. As Public Schools continue to reclaim their library autonomy it is vital Austin Public libraries expand their catalog to educate and inspire all individuals through the power of cultural reading. Public libraries serve as a vital resource for African American communities, offering summer reading programs and access to culturally specific literature and media. Therefore, the insufficient amount of African American literature in Austin Public Libraries would be a disservice to African Americans residing within the city limits and to all who have the curiosity to embrace diversity and learn from their stories. Investing in culturally significant African American literature would be a positive step for the Austin Public Library system, reinforcing Austin's commitment to inclusivity and diversity by addressing challenging topics such as institutional racism and implicit bias. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Recommendation $200,000 Description of Recommendation to Council $120K Bowling Center Bowling equipment at Millennium is more than 50 years old having been received from Bergstrom AFB. (Unique opportunity because of the closure of Highland Lanes) It needs major 1 of 3 upgrades and repair to compete with market competitors. Total renovation cost is $400K. A contribution of $120K would allow the Millennium to complete Phase I, adding lane lighting and bumpers to each of the 16 …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION URBAN TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION Recommendation Number 20250304: Austin Core Transportation Plan WHEREAS, the Austin Core Transportation Plan seeks to create a cohesive and adaptable transportation framework that addresses the unique mobility challenges of downtown Austin while building on previous downtown planning efforts and integrating upcoming major infrastructure projects like I-35 Capital Express Central and Project Connect; and WHEREAS, the Downtown street network is 1% of Austin’s overall network but accounts for 12% of all pedestrian crashes and 17% of intersection-related pedestrian crashes; and WHEREAS, the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan sets a goal of 50% non-single occupancy vehicle mode share by 2039; and WHEREAS, two-way streets are safer and increase economic activity where conversions are implemented; and WHEREAS, street trees and additional shade downtown make walking more feasible and can even reduce vehicle speeds; and WHEREAS, the East side of downtown is not currently slated to have an on-street, high-quality North-South bicycle facility in the current ACT plan; and WHEREAS, the Downtown Austin Alliance Downtown Parking Study was created to comprehensively and holistically find parking management solutions to better serve the residents, workers, and visitors of downtown Austin; and WHEREAS, the Urban Land Institute convened a Technical Assistance Panel focused on reducing the growth of parking downtown, improving management of current parking supply, improving the human experience downtown, and improving other transportation modes; and WHEREAS, City Council Resolution No. 20240201-054 and corresponding ordinances seek to reduce the overall number of new parking spaces built within downtown Austin and create a more pedestrian-oriented built environment; and WHEREAS, the future Austin Light Rail and expanded MetroRapid services are projected to carry tens of thousands additional riders into downtown; and WHEREAS, there are limited resources devoted to transportation infrastructure improvements across the City, with competing priorities, including installing transportation facilities outside of downtown where no current facilities exist; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Urban Transportation Commission recommends the Austin Core Transportation Plan prioritizes the needs of pedestrians, cyclists, and non-car modes of transportation throughout the downtown area over car volume throughput; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the UTC recommends that the ACT plan include a north-south, on-street, separated bike facility on the East side of downtown; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the UTC recommends additional one-way to two-way conversions on 5th Street, 6th Street, and other streets as is feasible; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the UTC …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION URBAN TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION Recommendation Number 20250304-003: Austin Core Transportation Plan WHEREAS, the Austin Core Transportation Plan seeks to create a cohesive and adaptable transportation framework that addresses the unique mobility challenges of downtown Austin while building on previous downtown planning efforts and integrating upcoming major infrastructure projects like I-35 Capital Express Central and Project Connect; and WHEREAS, the Downtown street network is 1% of Austin’s overall network but accounts for 12% of all pedestrian crashes and 17% of intersection-related pedestrian crashes; and WHEREAS, the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan sets a goal of 50% non-single occupancy vehicle mode share by 2039; and WHEREAS, two-way streets are safer and increase economic activity where conversions are implemented; and WHEREAS, street trees and additional shade downtown make walking more feasible and can even reduce vehicle speeds; and WHEREAS, the East side of downtown is not currently slated to have a new on-street, high- quality North-South bicycle facility in the current ACT plan; and WHEREAS, the Downtown Austin Alliance Downtown Parking Study was created to comprehensively and holistically find parking management solutions to better serve the residents, workers, and visitors of downtown Austin; and WHEREAS, the Urban Land Institute convened a Technical Assistance Panel focused on reducing the growth of parking downtown, improving management of current parking supply, improving the human experience downtown, and improving other transportation modes; and WHEREAS, City Council Resolution No. 20240201-054 and corresponding ordinances seek to reduce the overall number of new parking spaces built within downtown Austin and create a more pedestrian-oriented built environment; and WHEREAS, the future Austin Light Rail and expanded MetroRapid services are projected to carry tens of thousands additional riders into downtown; and WHEREAS, there are limited resources devoted to transportation infrastructure improvements across the City, with competing priorities, including installing transportation facilities outside of downtown where no current facilities exist; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED the UTC recommends that the City Council adopt the Austin Core Transportation plan; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Urban Transportation Commission recommends the Austin Core Transportation Plan prioritizes the needs of pedestrians, cyclists, and non-car modes of transportation throughout the downtown area over car volume throughput; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the UTC recommends the ACT plan continue the protected bike lane on Red River Street from 7th Street to 12th Street, as contemplated by the 2023 Bicycle Plan and the active project listed …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Urban Transportation Commission Recommendation Number 20250304-005: I-35 Frontage Road Crossings and Pedestrian Crossings WHEREAS, the City of Austin is considering an investment of over a billion dollars to create new public spaces covering portions of an expanded Interstate 35, through the Our Future 35 Cap and Stitch program; and WHEREAS wide, fast moving, frontage roads create physical and mental barriers that would disincentivize visiting the proposed caps and reduce economic development opportunities surrounding them; and WHEREAS, TxDOT’s current designs for the I-35 Capital Express Central Project include frontage roads with up to eight travel lanes that people walking and bicycling would need to cross to access the proposed caps or cross the freeway; and WHEREAS, most urban freeways in the United States are surrounded by city streets, not highway-grade frontage roads; and WHEREAS, in 2002, the Texas Transportation Commission acknowledged significant safety and efficiency concerns with frontage roads; and WHEREAS, street parking protects people walking and bicycling on sidewalks and shared use paths and encourages the use of nearby public spaces; WHEREAS, the City of Austin’s Cap and Stitch project proposal is modeled after successful highway caps such as Klyde Warren Park in Dallas and the Rose Kennedy Greenway in Boston; and WHEREAS, the roads surrounding Klyde Warren Park and Rose Kennedy Greenway have two to four travel lanes in total (1-2 travel lanes in each direction) surrounding the caps, in contrast with the proposed frontage roads for the I-35 caps with up to eight travel lanes in some locations; and WHEREAS, the width of the roads adjacent to Klyde Warren Park are 40 feet, and the widths of roads adjacent to the proposed caps for I-35 are up to 100 feet; and WHEREAS, there is limited access to the northern cap due to the design of the frontage roads; and NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Urban Transportation Commission recommends that, throughout the length of the I-35 Capital Express Central Project, frontage roads should be designed as city streets per the following principles: • Design should result in average speeds at or below safe urban speed limits, no higher • The frontage roads should contain no more than 2 travel lanes in each direction than 30 miles per hour; throughout the length of the project; • Lane widths should generally be 10 feet and no wider than 11 feet; • Designs should include street trees along …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Urban Transportation Commission Recommendation No. 20250304-006: Austin Light Rail Draft Environmental Impact Statement WHEREAS, the Project Connect Contract with the Voters defines Project Connect as “a high capacity transit system, to address the City's transit needs for safer, faster, and more reliable transportation that will improve access to essential services, such as education, health care, grocery stores, childcare, and jobs, especially in historically underserved and underrepresented communities;" and WHEREAS, the ballot language for Proposition A of the November 3rd, 2020 election noted that Project Connect would include “associated road, sidewalk, bike, and street lighting improvements;” and WHEREAS, the Austin Transit Partnership (ATP) oversees the design, construction, and completion of the Project Connect Light Rail Implementation Plan; and WHEREAS, on May 2nd, 2023 the City of Austin Urban Transportation Commission (UTC) recommended that the City of Austin and ATP engage “in a scoping project for multimodal investments to ensure light rail integrates with and expands Austin's existing and future pedestrian, bicycle, and transit connections;” and WHEREAS, Project Connect is essential to accomplishing the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan’s 50/50 mode split goal by 2039; and WHEREAS, on January 10th, 2025 ATP released the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Austin Light Rail Phase 1 Project; and NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the UTC recommends ATP move forward with all light rail design elements and options suggested in the Draft EIS; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the UTC recommends that, in keeping with the Contract with the Voters, ATP should prioritize right-of-way for pedestrians, bicyclists, micro-mobility users, and other transit options in future design iterations over preserving access for private auto traffic. Motioned by: Commissioner Schumacher Seconded by: Commissioner Somers Date of Approval: 3/4/2025 Record of the vote: 7-0 Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign)
African American Resource Advisory COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20250304-004 Seconded By: Commissioner Linder Date: March 4, 2025 Subject: Austin Public Library Black Literature Expansion Motioned By: Commissioner Smith Recommendation $1.5M Description of Recommendation to Council It is essential for the City of Austin to increase the budget of the Austin Public Library beyond the zero- based budget by $1.5M to support a meaningful investment in African American literature within the library's collection. This investment would not only benefit the African American community but also underscore Austin's dedication to embracing diversity and promoting equitable access to valuable literary resources. African American Literature would recommend including but not limited to playwrights, books on tape and digital, hardcopy, movies. including documentaries, and hosting black authors, playwriters and poets to come speak at the APL. Rationale: The current political climate is having a detrimental impact on youth and young adults who seek to connect with and learn from their cultural heritage through literature. This issue is particularly evident in the realm of African American authors and their works, which shed light on the struggles and experiences of African American communities. Public libraries are an integral part of our society, nurturing the minds of future generations. As Public Schools continue to reclaim their library autonomy it is vital Austin Public libraries expand their catalog to educate and inspire all individuals through the power of cultural reading. Public libraries serve as a vital resource for African American communities, offering summer reading programs and access to culturally specific literature and media. Therefore, the insufficient amount of African American literature in Austin Public Libraries would be a disservice to African Americans residing within the city limits and to all who have the curiosity to embrace diversity and learn from their stories. Investing in culturally significant African American literature would be a positive step for the Austin Public Library system, reinforcing Austin's commitment to inclusivity and diversity by addressing challenging topics such as institutional racism and implicit bias. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Recommendation $200,000 Description of Recommendation to Council $120K Bowling Center Bowling equipment at Millennium is more than 50 years old having been received from Bergstrom AFB. (Unique opportunity because of the closure of Highland Lanes) It needs major 1 of 3 upgrades and repair to compete with market competitors. Total renovation cost is $400K. A contribution of $120K would allow the Millennium to complete Phase I, adding lane lighting and bumpers to …
1. African American Resource Advisory Commission REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, March 4, 2025 The African American Resource Advisory Commission convened in a regular meeting on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at the African American Cultural & Heritage Facility in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair Eugene called the African American Resources Advisory Commission Meeting to order at 5:56 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Dr. Chiquita Eugene, Vice Chair Roger Davis Nelson Linder Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Daryl Horton, Chair Elaina Fowler Joi Harden Kyron Hayes Mueni Rudd Greg Smith PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL List name of speaker(s) and brief description of topic. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the African American Resource Advisory Commission Regular Meeting on February 4th, 2025. The minutes were approved on Commissioner Smith’s motion, Commissioner Davis’ second, on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Jackson and Ross were absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Briefing on the Facility Expansion Plan Phase 1 for the George Washington Carver Museum. Presentation by Marjorie Flanagan, Division Manager, Museums & Cultural Programs, Parks & Recreation Department. 1 Briefing by Adrienne O’Keefe, Community Engagement Specialist; Tony Hron, Associate Project Manager; and Marjorie Flanagan, Division Manager, Parks and Recreation Department. DISCUSSION ITEMS Presentation regarding updates to the Carver Center funding and the work done by the A3 Art Alliance Austin to support the Carver Center’s Artist Residency Program. Presentation by Laura Esparza, Executive Director, A3 Art Alliance Austin. Presentation by Laura Esparza, Executive Director, A3 Art Alliance Austin. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Approve recommendations to council regarding the FY 25-26 budget as it relates to the African American Resource Advisory Commission. The recommendation was amended to strike $6,000,000 and replace it with $11,000,000 on Commissioner Smith’s motion, Commissioner Rudd’s second, on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Jackson and Ross were absent. The recommendation was approved on Commissioner Smith’s motion, Commissioner Linder’s second, on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Jackson and Ross were absent. 3. 4. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Juneteenth celebration Presentation from Toby Futrell, former City Manager Vice Chair Eugene adjourned the meeting at 7:46 p.m. without objection. The minutes were approved on Commissioner Davis’ motion, Commissioner Linder’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Harden, Jackson, and Ross were absent. 2
REGULAR MEETING of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS MARCH 3, 2025 AT 6:30PM W. 3rd Street AUSTIN CITY HALL ROOM 1101 AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs 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, contact Gunjen Mittal at gunjen.mittal@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-6104. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Melissa Ortega, Chair Kevin T. Countie Miriam Dorantes, Vice Chair Adrian De La Rosa Azeem Edwin Aditi Joshi Jeanne “Canan” Kaba Yohana Saucedo Shweta Padmanabha AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up 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 Commission on Immigrant Affairs regular meeting on January 6, 2025. STAFF BRIEFING 2. Briefing by Lieutenant Davis Christopher, Austin Police Department, regarding general updates on policies pertaining to the Immigrant Community. 3. Briefing by Houmma Garba, Language Access and Community Engagement Consultant from the Corporate Communications & Public Information Office regarding the new citywide language access plan. 4. Briefing by Rocio Villalobos, Equity and Inclusion Program Manager - Immigrant Affairs, regarding general updates on immigrant affairs. 5. Briefing by Alejandra Mireles and/or Jeremy Garza, Equity and Inclusion Program Coordinator from (Equity Division) Office of Equity and Inclusion, regarding timeline and steps for Quality of Life Study. PRESENTATION 6. Presentation by Rebecca Lightsey, Co-Executive Director of American Gateways regarding an update on their work, to highlight the effective use of the City's support as the recipient of a City of Austin grant to provide vital legal immigration services to low-income residents and advocate for continued funding for immigration legal services in next year's City budget. DISCUSSION ITEMS 7. Welcome new commissioners to Commission on Immigrant Affairs. 8. Discussion of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs’ Draft Budget Recommendations for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. 9. Discussion on updates on JIC recommendations. Group. Group. 10. Discussion on proposed dates for a Special Called meeting regarding FY26 budget recommendations. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 11. Discussion and action on approving …
REGULAR MEETING of the MUSIC COMMISSION March 3, 2025 6:30 PM CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS ROOM 1001, 301 W 2ND STREET, Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Music 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 Shelbi Mitchell, 512-974-6318, Shelbi.Mitchell@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Nagavalli Medicharla - Chair, Anne-Charlotte Patterson – Vice Chair, Scott Strickland – Secretary, Nelson Aguilar, Tami Blevins, Pedro Carvalho, Cornice “Ray” Price Jr., Celeste Quesada AGENDA CALL TO ORDER MUSICAL PERFORMANCE Anastasia Hera PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Music Commission Meeting on February 3, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. City of Austin Organizational Changes and Executive Management Team briefing by Erica Shamaly, Division Manager, Music and Entertainment Division and Angela Means, Director, Office of Arts, Culture, Music & Entertainment. 3. Live Music Fund collections briefing by Kim McCarson, Program Manager, Music & Entertainment Division, Office of Arts, Culture, Music & Entertainment. 4. Austin Live Music Fund briefing by Erica Shamaly, Division Manager, Music and Entertainment Division. DISCUSSION ITEMS 5. Rally Austin's Annual Report on FY24 including an update on Cultural Trust activities to date as well as an early preview of programs to be considered in the 2026 Bond package by Anne Gatling Haynes, Chief Transactions Officer and Theresa Alvarez, Chief Executive Officer, Rally Austin; Emmett Beliveau, Chief Operating Officer, C3 Presents; and Meghan Wells, Special Liaison for Economic Development, Financial Services Department. 6. Discussion on Meadowfest 2025 Fundraiser for Mental Health Awareness after presentation by Greg Goodman - Founder of the Meadow E. Goodman Foundation for Mental Health Awareness. 7. Revisiting budget recommendation to form a “Stormy Weather Fund” to feasibly administer micro-grants to musicians who have lost wages due to city-wide extreme weather- related closure. 8. Update on Short Term Rental regulation and Austin Convention Center expansion from Land Use Working Group by Vice Chair Patterson. 9. Discuss revising special event permitting to include a lower-cost, streamlined tier for smaller community-organized events. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 10. Update from the Austin Live …
MUSIC COMMISSION MEETING 3/03/2025 H O T E L O C C U P A N C Y T A X C O L L E C T I O N S L I V E M U S I C F U N D Kim McCarson Program Manager UPDATED 3.03.2025 FY 24 Year-to-Date Hotel Occupancy Tax Collections – Live Music Fund FY25 Amended Budget December 2024 w/ Encumbrances $17,407 FY25 Year-to-Date w/ Encumbrances $873,259 FY25 Year-End Estimate $17,874 $312,748 $827,586 $19,399 $338,773 $854,923 $12,938 $323,076 $798,287 $5,509 $217,400 $744,461 $4,573 $472,660 $716,095 $36,835 $335,537 $782,771 $19,180 $288,001 $856,608 $5,354 $172,557 $754,925 $17,407 $159,710 $696,141 FY 23 FY 24 FY 25 October April November May December June January July February August March September FY 24 Year-to-Date Hotel Occupancy Tax Collections – Live Music Fund FY24 Amended Budget $5,575,000 FY23 Amended Budget $4,100,000 FY24 Year-to-Date w/ Encumbrances $4,445,096 FY23 Year-to-Date w/ Encumbrances $4,472,973 $17,874 $312,748 $827,586 $19,399 $338,773 $854,923 $12,938 $323,076 $798,287 $5,509 $217,400 $744,461 $4,573 $472,660 $716,095 $36,835 $335,537 $782,771 $19,180 $288,001 $856,608 $5,354 $172,557 $754,925 FY 23 FY 24 October April November May December June January July February August March September
Rally Austin Update March 2025 Commissions WHO WE ARE MISSION Facilitating equitable development for economic growth while preserving Austin's unique culture. VISION A culturally resilient and economically integrated Austin where diverse communities thrive without risk of displacement. LEADING INVESTMENTS IN OUR COMMUNITY, AS A COMMUNITY Rally will focus its efforts to unite and drive progress across three critical areas of development in Central Texas: ARTS, MUSIC & CULTURE COMPLETE COMMUNITIES CATALYTIC DEVELOPMENT 2 WHO WE ARE OUR COMMUNITY AT WORK Board of Directors Collaboration of community leaders and nominating bodies who represent local organizations and asset holders. 7 City Of Austin Representatives: • Music Commission • Arts Commission • Historic Landmark • +City Directors 3 INVESTMENT HIGHLIGHTS RALLY AUSTIN MILESTONES Council begins to explore collaboration Austin Economic Development Corporation established Signed Interlocal agreement for initial projects 21-person board created, CEO and Staff search begin Strategic Plan provides Board Structure and Mission $2.4M for two creative space projects on City owned property AEDC recognized as 501c3 Non- Profit Organization $4.5M announced for Austin Playhouse $1.6M Iconic Venue Funding for The Hole in the Wall AEDC rebrands as Rally Austin Austin City Council Approves Developer Selection, Urban Renewal Agency recommendation for Blocks 16 & 18 $2.5M for Museum of Human Achievement Council approves a 30% increase in the Interlocal Agreement 2014 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Arts, Music & Culture Complete Communities Catalytic Development 4 DEVELOPMENT FOR PURPOSE Critical Areas of Development for Central Texas COMPLETE COMMUNITIES ARTS, MUSIC & CULTURE CATALYTIC DEVELOPMENT 5 DEVELOPMENT FOR PURPOSE BLOCK 16 & 18 EAST 11th ST Development of complete communities that improve quality of life for Austinites and focus on equitable development in underserved areas. Blocks 16 & 18 in the African American Cultural Heritage District with the Urban Renewal Board Philanthropic partnerships with Wells Fargo, C3 Presents, and Six Square “ We are proud partners of the Rally Austin team and their transformative work ensuring communities throughout Austin can flourish. — CHRIS RIOS, WELLS FARGO REGIONAL VP OF PHILANTHROPY & COMMUNITY IMPACT ” 6 DEVELOPMENT FOR PURPOSE ARTS, MUSIC & CULTURE AUSTIN CULTURAL TRUST IMPACT $11M in five projects valued at $24.2M $11M $24.2M $48.4M to $60.5M Rally Investment Project Value Projected Economic Impact INVESTMENTS $1.6M Hole in the Wall $2M Permitting and Development Center $400K Millenium Youth Entertainment Complex $4.5M Austin Playhouse $2.5M Museum of Human Achievement $400K Millennium Youth Entertainment Complex …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION Monday, March 3, 2025, 4:00 PM Austin City Hall, Boards and Commissions Room, #1101 301 West 2nd Street Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Public Safety 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 Christi Vitela, 512- 974-2792, christi.vitela@austintexas.gov. Pierre Nguyễn Kristy Orr Michael Sierra-Arévalo Yasmine Smith CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Nelly Paulina Ramírez, Chair Timothy Ruttan, Vice Chair Rebecca Bernhardt Enrique Duran II David Holmes AGENDA CALL TO ORDER 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 Public Safety Commission regular meeting on February 3, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. 5. Public Safety Quarterly Report, Austin/Travis County Emergency Medical Services Department. Discussion of opioid use and mitigation efforts by Austin/Travis County Emergency Medical Services Department. Discussion of Office of Police Oversight's implementation of the Austin Police Oversight Act (APOA) and update on vacancies and hiring. Discussion of Austin Police Training Academy’s chain of command and progress of data- informed analytics as they relate to Kroll Report recommendations. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Budget. 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 Christi Vitela at the Office of the City Clerk Department, at 512-974-2792 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Public Safety Commission, please contact Christi Vitela at (512-974- 2792 or christi.vitela@austintexas.gov).
