DESIGN COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20240226-003 Green Streets Initiative (Green Infrastructure Resolution-Agenda item 39) Date: February 28, 2024 Subject: Motioned By: Recommendation Support of the Green Infrastructure Resolution (Agenda Item 39 which advocates prioritizing the planting of street trees within Austin’s public rights-of-way.) Commissioner Luckens Seconded By: Commissioner Wittstruck Description of Recommendation to Council The Design Commission recommends that the Austin City Council approve the proposed Green Streets Infrastructure Resolution that minimizes barriers to plant and maintain street trees located in City of Austin public rights-of-way. Rationale: The goals and vision of the The Green Infrastructure Resolution align with the vision and shared values (sustainability and a connection to the outdoors) of the City of Austin Urban Design Guidelines. Specifically, it supports the use of trees to enhance the streetscape , provides protection from vehicular traffic and supports the use of plants to enliven urban spaces. 9-0-1 Vote For: Chair Salinas, Vice Chair Meiners, Commissioner Carroll, Commissioner Gelles, Commissioner Ladner, Commissioner Luckens, Commissioner McKinney, Commissioner Wallace, Commissioner Witstruck Against: Abstain: Commissioner Howard Absent: Attest: Jon Salinas, Chair Design Commission 1 of 1
DESIGN COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2024 The Design Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, February 26, 2024, at the Permitting and Development Center located at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive, Room 1405, in Austin, Texas. Chair Salinas called the Design Commission meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Jon Salinas, Chair David Carroll Nkiru Gelles Kevin Howard Ben Luckens Marissa McKinney Brita Wallace Brendan Wittstruck Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Josue Meiners, Vice Chair Conners Ladner PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Design Commission regular meeting on December 11, 2023. The minutes from the meeting of 12/11/2023 were approved on Commissioner McKinney’s motion, Commissioner Wittstruck’s second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Lee was absent. 1. 2. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing regarding the Equity-Based Preservation Plan. Presented by Cara Bertron, Planning Department. 1 The presentation was made by Cara Bertron, Planning Department. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Discussion and possible action to consider a recommendation to support the Green Streets Initiative. Presented by Jana McCann, McCann Adams Studio. Sponsors: Chair Salinas, Commissioner Wittstruck The motion to recommend the Green Streets Initiative (Green Infrastructure Resolution) to City Council was approved on Commissioner Lucken’s motion, Commissioner Wittstruck’s second on a 9-0-1 vote. Commissioner Howard recused himself from this item due to a conflict of interest and left the dais. Commissioner Lee was absent. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES Update from the Urban Design Guidelines Working Group regarding updates to the guidelines. Update was given by Commissioner Carroll. Update from representative of the Downtown Commission regarding last meeting. Update was given by Commissioner McKinney. Update from representative of the Joint Sustainability Committee regarding last meeting. Update was given by Chair Salinas. Update from representative of the South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board regarding last meeting. Update was given by Commissioner Ladner. DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion of the Urban Design Guidelines related to the review of Downtown Density Bonus Projects. Presented by Sophia Benner, Planning Department. The presentation was made by Sophia Benner, Planning Department. Chair Salinas adjourned the meeting at 7:43 p.m. without objection. The minutes were approved at the 3/25/2024 meeting on Vice Chair Meiners’ motion, Commissioner McKinney’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Howard, Commissioner Lee, and Commissioner Wittstruck were absent. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 2
REGULAR MEETING of the DESIGN COMMISSION MONDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2023, 6:00 PM PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1405 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO 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 Conners Ladner AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Ben Luckens Marissa McKinney Brita Wallace Brendan Wittstruck Vacancy, District 6 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 Approve the minutes of the Design Commission regular meeting on November 13, 2023. 1. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding the Urban Design Guidelines Update Engagement Plan. Presented by Sophia Benner, Planning Department. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Discussion and possible action to recommend to City Council whether the project The Graduate Austin, located at 408 West 18th Street, complies with the Urban Design Guidelines for the City of Austin in accordance with Land Development Code § 25-2-586 (C)(1)(a)(ii). Presented by Amanda Swor, Drenner Group PC, Jillian Agdern, Hartshorne Plunkard Architecture, and Chris Jackson, TBG Partners. Discussion and possible action on the creation and membership of working groups. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES Update from the Urban Design Guidelines Working Group regarding updates to the guidelines. Update from representative of the Downtown Commission regarding last meeting. Update from representative of the Joint Sustainability Committee regarding last meeting. Update from representative of the South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board regarding last meeting. 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 or email Nicole …
DESIGN COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20231211-003 Date: December 29, 2023 Subject: The Graduate Austin Recommendation Motioned By: Commissioner McKinney Seconded By: Commissioner Wittstruck The Design Commission recommends to City Council that the project The Graduate Austin, located at 408 West 18th Street, as presented on December 1(cid:20), 2023, complies with the City Design and Sustainability Standards. Description of Recommendation to Council A substitute motion to recommend to City Council that the project the Graduate Austin, located at 408 West 18th Street, complies with the Urban Design Guidelines for the City of Austin in accordance with Land Development Code § 25-2-586 (C)(1)(a)(ii) with the following modifications: (cid:120) (cid:120) (cid:120) (cid:120) (cid:120) Encourage the out of scale pedestrian gathering space along San Antonio Street be brought back into scale Encourage corner entrances to expand pedestrian access on San Antonio Street and Guadalupe Street Enhance the north façade to encourage an active northeast corner To use the City of Austin standard benches Expand food and beverage service along 18th Street to enhance the primary entrance to the food and beverage area For: Chair Salinas, Vice Chair Meiners, Commissioner Carroll, Commissioner Ladner, Commissioner Luckens, Commissioner Howard, Commissioner McKinney, Commissioner Wallace, Commissioner Wittstruck Vote 9-0 Against: Abstain: Absent: Commissioner Gelles Attest: Jon Salinas, AIA-Chair of the Design Commission 1 of 1
Engagement Overview for the Urban Design Guidelines update Presented by Sophia Benner, Principal Planner RESOLUTION NO.20210902-046 WHEREAS, the Planning Commission approved the draft framework for the Urban Design Guidelines update on its July 27, 2021 consent agenda; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN: The city manager is directed to initiate an inclusive and robust multi-phased stakeholder process for updating the Urban Design Guidelines as outlined in the Design Commission’s document: "Urban Design Guidelines Update Draft Framework". BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: The city manager shall provide the necessary support and resources to the Commission to achieve the multiple phases of the update, including preparation, creation and finalization of the guidelines and ensure appropriate review by relevant City departments and boards and commissions before returning to city council for approval upon completion of this work. Draft Framework Engagement Plan Cartoon: Seppo Leinonen, www.seppo.net Next Steps Collaborate to finalize the narrative, core values, timeline and engagement plan. Identify roles & responsibilities Engage with stakeholders as outlined in the Engagement Plan Incorporate feedback into draft UDG update Present final draft to Boards & Commissions identified in the Engagement Plan Incorporate feedback into final UDG update Present UDG to Council Urban Design Guidelines Update - Engagement Plan The Urban Design Guidelines (UDG) are a set of recommendations that strive to improve architecture and urban design. The guidelines are used by the Design Commission and City of Austin staff to review Downtown Density Bonus Projects. Compliance with the UDG is a gatekeeper requirement for participating in the Downtown Density Bonus Program. The guidelines were last updated in 2008. An update is needed to reflect the current goals of urban design, needs of Austinites, and alignment with City of Austin direction and policy. Engagement with people who are familiar with the UDG is necessary to understand how they have impacted the design of developments downtown, what works, what needs improvement, and what opportunities deserve more focus. The goal is to create a set of guidelines that improves the aesthetics, function, and feel of Austin while being easy to comprehend and implement. The framework for the goals of the Urban Design Guidelines update are encompassed in these five core values: Sustainability Taking direction from the 2020 Austin Climate Equity Plan, the Urban Design Guidelines endorses the goal of equitably reaching net- zero community- wide greenhouse gas emissions by 2040. The …
The Graduate Austin Design Commission December 11, 2023 1 Site Aerial 2 Property Details and Existing Conditions Address: 408 West 18th Street • Northwest corner of Guadalupe Street and West 18th Street Size: 0.9733 acres / 42,396 square feet Current Use: Vacant structure and surface parking lot Zoning: DMU – Downtown Mixed Use 3 Property Details and Existing Conditions 4 Zoning Exhibit 5 Project Details DMU Zoning Entitled Height: 120 feet 200 feet DDBP Max. Height: 200 feet / 19 floors Proposed Height: DMU Zoning Entitled FAR: DDBP Allowable FAR: 5:1 8:1 Proposed Project Size: 339,088 square feet Proposed Uses: Residential Hotel: Pedestrian-Oriented Uses: 3,762 square feet (ground floor) 228 units / 211,938 square feet 194 keys / 127,510 square feet 4,371 square feet (rooftop) 6 DDBP Eligibility SITE SITE 7 Community Benefit Bonus Area By-right DMU Floor-to-Area Ratio – Up to 5:1 DDBP Community Benefits Compliance – 5:1 to 8:1 5:1 to 8:1 • Development Bonus Fee For Affordable Housing Residential Portion of Project: 62.5% (211,938 SF) Commercial Portion of Project: 37.5% (127,150 SF) Residential fee: $10/bonus square foot * 62.5% = $794,425.00 plus Commercial fee: $6/bonus square foot * 37.5% = $285,993.00 Total: $1,080,418.00 Up to 5:1 8 The Site in Context 9 The Project in Context 10 The Project in Context 11 DDBP Gatekeeper Requirements 1. AEGB 2-Star Compliance 2. Great Streets compliance 3. Substantial Compliance with the Urban Design Guidelines 12 1. AEGB 2-Star Rating 13 2. Great Streets Compliance 14 Technical Site Plan 15 Technical Site Plan with Replacement Trees 16 3. Substantial Compliance with Urban Design Guidelines Create dense development Create mixed-use development Limit development which closes Downtown streets Buffer neighborhood edges Incorporate civic art in both public and private development Protect important public views Avoid historical misinterpretations Respect adjacent historic buildings Acknowledge that rooftops are seen from other buildings and the street AW.10 Avoid the development of theme environments AW.11 Recycle existing building stock Treat the four squares with special consideration Contribute to an open space network Emphasize connections to parks and greenways Incorporate open space into residential development Develop green roofs Provide plazas in high use areas Determine plaza function, size, and activity Respond to the microclimate in plaza design Consider views, circulation, boundaries, and subspaces Provide an appropriate amount of plaza seating Provide visual and spatial complexity in public spaces Use plants to enliven urban spaces Provide interactive civic art and …
18th & GUADALUPE STREET 408 W 18TH STREET AUSTIN, TX Downtown Density Bonus Program Package Updated for Design Commission 12/11/13 CONTENTS 03 architecture austin’s guideline for buildings precedence inspiration materiality conceptual plans building elevations gross building area perspective renderings 04 sustainability sustainable features AEGB scorecard 01 02 project overview adventurous journeys city context map site context map surrounding context map existing site conditions proposed site conditions proposed lighting conditions proposed pedestrian safety, bike safety and accessibility austin’s shared values project goals public experience great streets compliance illustrative site plan technical site plan technical site plan with replacement tree conceptual grading plan streetscape design streetscape materiality perspective renderings OVERVIEW adventurous journeys With over $5.0 billion in current real estate investments across 50+ markets, AJ Capital Partners applies deeply rooted hospitality expertise across several real estate asset classes, including mixed-use, hotel, office, multi-family, single-family and retail. GRADUATE HOTELS Graduate Hotels are a curated, handcrafted collection of 37+ hotels in the most dynamic college towns across the U.S. and the U.K. With every hotel, we immerse ourselves in the local community to uncover the unique stories, heroes and histories that make each town so special, and bring those stories to life through authenticity and creativity. From the art on our walls to the drinks on our menus, every detail is inspired by our location. MEMOIR Memoir Residential is a collection of dynamic multifamily residential properties throughout the U.S., combining hospitality and design expertise with flexible leasing options. Memoir Residential cultivates meaningful places to live within storied neighborhoods and strives to cultivate more meaningful residential living experiences for creative, curious people who appreciate great design. DESIGN FEATURES: LOBBY Row Your Boat | Inspired by the Vol Navy, our front desk is shaped like an old motorboat. Lists of the years UT’s Lady Vols and men’s football won national championships runs along the bottom. Smoky Scene | A hand-painted mural depicting the Great Smoky Mountains hangs behind the front desk. Orange You Glad | Statement flooring in custom orange and white chevron is another touch of Volunteer pride. King of the Wild Frontier | The large Davy Crockett 408 W 18TH STREETDOWNTOWN DENSITY BONUS PACKAGE UPDATED FOR DESIGN COMMISSIONDecember 11, 2023 city context map Key Project Site Downtown Austin Boundary Density Bonus Program Classification Parks + Greenbelts 15th Street west campus overlay university of texas at austin g u a d a l u p …
MECH. UP PARKING: 86 TOTAL PARKING SPACES • • • 63 STANDARD SPACES 20 COMPACT SPACES 3 ACCESSIBLE SPACES RAMP DN 15.1% RAMP DN 7.6% DN UP DN 4th floor plan HOUSEKEEPING OFFICE ELEC. DN UP 1 DDBA - 4TH FLOOR PLAN SCALE: 1/8" = 1'-0" Contractor shall be responsible for reviewing all Plans and Specifications, verifying all existing conditions prior to proceeding with Construction, complying with all applicable building codes, and notifying Architect immediately of any discrepancies or conflicts. Contractor shall construct the work in conformance with all applicable building codes. Contractor is responsible for design and installation of properly sized and loaded systems. Submit shop drawings to architect for approval on conformity to Architectural design intent. A written Architectural Specification was issued for this project and along with these printed documents constitute the Contract Documents for this project. Work scope pertinent to all disciplines occurs throughout the Contract Documents. By submitting a bid for this work the Contractor and all subcontractors attest that they have reviewed the entire contract document set and site conditions and have included all applicable work. Additional Architectural Specification copies are available anytime upon request. Hartshorne Plunkard, LLC shall retain all copyrights, statutory and common law right with regard to these plans and building design. Reproduction, changes or assignment to any third party shall not occur without obtaining expressed written permission and consent of Hartshorne Plunkard, LLC. 18th & Guadalupe 408 W 18th Street, Austin, TX 78701 ISSUANCES DATE ISSUED FOR HOTEL RESIDENTIAL MECH. / BOH COMMON HARTSHORNE PLUNKARD ARCHITECTURE 315 WEST WALTON STREET CHICAGO, IL 60610 312.226.4488 HPARCHITECTURE.COM t c e o r P j h t r o N PROJ. # 22-006 SCALE: 1/8" = 1'-0" SDP EXHIBIT - DDBA L4 SDP.10 408 W 18TH STREETDOWNTOWN DENSITY BONUS PACKAGE UPDATED FOR DESIGN COMMISSIONDecember 11, 2023 UP ELEC. DN UP PARKING: 94 TOTAL PARKING SPACES • • • • 72 STANDARD SPACES 17 COMPACT SPACES 1 ACCESSIBLE SPACES 4 TANDEM SPACES UP UP DN 5th floor plan MAINTENANCE OFFICE 1 DDBA - 5TH FLOOR PLAN SCALE: 1/8" = 1'-0" Contractor shall be responsible for reviewing all Plans and Specifications, verifying all existing conditions prior to proceeding with Construction, complying with all applicable building codes, and notifying Architect immediately of any discrepancies or conflicts. Contractor shall construct the work in conformance with all applicable building codes. Contractor is responsible for design and installation of …
Date: To: From: Subject: Nov 12, 2023 City of Austin Design Commission Planning & Urban Design Working Group Density Bonus Working Group review of 408 W. 18th St for substantial compliance with the Urban Design Guidelines Nov 8, 2023; 12:00 pm; Virtual Microsoft Teams Meeting Kate Kniejski- Drenner Group Meeting date: Applicant: The project is located at 408 W. 18th St The project includes mixed use of hotel (194 Keys), Residential 228 Units and restaurant space (unknown sq. ft.). The project also includes unknown number of parking levels. The applicant is seeking a Density Bonus to raise the FAR from 5:1 to 8:1 resulting in a total project gross area of 339,088 gsf. The site is 42,396 sf with a current allowable building size of approx.. 211,980 sf based on the current allowable 5:1 FAR. The total proposed building height is 200’ (19 floors). The maximum height achievable under the Density Bonus program is 200’. This site is not affected by Capitol View Corridor height restrictions. Per the Density Bonus Program ordinance, the applicant is required to meet the three gatekeeper requirements: Substantially comply with the City’s Urban Design Guidelines Provide streetscape improvements along all public street frontages consistent with the Great Streets Program Standards Applicant must commit to a minimum of 2-star green building rating (Pursuing 3-star rating). WORKING GROUP REVIEW OF PROJECT FOR COMPLIANCE WITH THE URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES PS.1 Protect the pedestrian where the building meets the street: Provide more information at both San Antonio and Guadalupe streets for the street plazas, at the parking garage entry and address how pedestrian will be protected walk across driveway PS.6 Enhance the streetscape: PS.10 Provide protection from cars/promote curbside parking: Protect cyclist at raised curb drop-off by preventing vehicles from encroaching into bike lanes PS.12 Provide generous street-level windows: Generous windows provided however, large portions of windows along San Antonio and Guadalupe are within loading and back of house areas. Applicant is encouraged to provide activated uses behind these large windows PZ.5 Develop green roofs: No green roofs proposed for this project PZ.7 Determine plaza function, size and activity- Street plazas appear to meet great street standards, however no connection to the interior activated uses exists. Tables and chairs do not directly connect or correlate to any interior use PZ.10 Provide an appropriate amount of plaza seating: Refer to the recommendations in the design guidelines to …
DESIGN COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2023 The Design Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, November 13, 2023, at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco, in Austin, Texas. Chair Salinas called the Design Commission Meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Jon Salinas, Chair Josue Meiners, Vice Chair David Carroll Nkiru Gelles Kevin Howard Marissa McKinney Brita Wallace Brendan Wittstruck Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Conners Ladner PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. 2. Approve the minutes of the Design Commission regular meeting on October 23, 2023. The minutes from the meeting of 10/23/2023 were approved on Vice Chair Meiners’ motion, Chair Salinas’ second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Luckens was absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing regarding the Downtown Density Bonus Program. Presented by Jorge Rousselin, Planning Department. 1 Sponsors: Chair Salinas, Vice Chair Meiners The presentation was made by Jorge Rousselin, Planning Department. Staff briefing regarding the Urban Design Guidelines Update. Presented by Sophia Benner, Planning Department. Sponsors: Chair Salinas, Commissioner McKinney The presentation was made by Sophia Benner, Planning Department. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Discussion and possible action to recommend to City Council whether the project 14th and Lavaca, located at 301 West 14th Street, complies with the Urban Design Guidelines for the City of Austin. Presented by Leah Bojo, Drenner Group, PC, Paul Suttles, STG Design, and Cameron Campbell, Campbell Landscape Architecture. The motion to recommend to City Council that the project 14th and Lavaca, located at 301 West 14th Street, complies with the Urban Design Guidelines for the City of Austin was approved on Vice Chair Meiners’ motion, Commissioner McKinney’s second on an 8-0-1 vote. Commissioner Carroll abstained. Commissioner Luckens was absent. Discussion and possible action on the creation and membership of working groups. Sponsors: Chair Salinas, Commissioner McKinney The motion to assign Commissioner Howard, Commissioner McKinney, and Commissioner Wittstruck to the Urban Design Guidelines Working Group was approved on Chair Salinas’ motion, Vice Chair Meiners’ second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Luckens was absent. Discussion and possible action on the 2024 Design Commission meeting schedule. The motion to approve Draft 2 of the 2024 Design Commission meeting schedule was approved on Commissioner Wittstruck’s motion, Vice Chair Meiners’ second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Luckens was absent. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES Update from the Urban Design Guidelines Working Group regarding updates to the …
REGULAR MEETING of the DESIGN COMMISSION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2023, 6:00 PM PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1405 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO 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 Conners Ladner AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Ben Luckens Marissa McKinney Brita Wallace Brendan Wittstruck Vacancy, District 6 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 Approve the minutes of the Design Commission regular meeting on October 23, 2023. 1. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding the Downtown Density Bonus Program. Presented by Jorge Rousselin, Planning Department. Sponsors: Chair Salinas, Vice Chair Meiners 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. Staff briefing regarding the Urban Design Guidelines Update. Presented by Sophia Benner, Planning Department. Sponsors: Chair Salinas, Commissioner McKinney DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and possible action to recommend to City Council whether the project 14th and Lavaca, located at 301 West 14th Street, complies with the Urban Design Guidelines for the City of Austin. Presented by Leah Bojo, Drenner Group, PC. Discussion and possible action on the creation and membership of working groups. Sponsors: Chair Salinas, Commissioner McKinney Discussion and possible action on the 2024 Design Commission meeting schedule. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES Update from the Urban Design Guidelines Working Group regarding updates to the guidelines. Update from representative of the Downtown Commission regarding last meeting. Update from representative of the Joint Sustainability Committee regarding last meeting. Update from representative of the South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board regarding last meeting. 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 …
DESIGN COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2023 The Design Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, November 13, 2023, at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco, in Austin, Texas. Chair Salinas called the Design Commission Meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Jon Salinas, Chair Josue Meiners, Vice Chair David Carroll Nkiru Gelles Kevin Howard Marissa McKinney Brita Wallace Brendan Wittstruck Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Conners Ladner PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. 2. Approve the minutes of the Design Commission regular meeting on October 23, 2023. The minutes from the meeting of 10/23/2023 were approved on Vice Chair Meiners’ motion, Chair Salinas’ second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Luckens was absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS Staff briefing regarding the Downtown Density Bonus Program. Presented by Jorge Rousselin, Planning Department. 1 Sponsors: Chair Salinas, Vice Chair Meiners The presentation was made by Jorge Rousselin, Planning Department. Staff briefing regarding the Urban Design Guidelines Update. Presented by Sophia Benner, Planning Department. Sponsors: Chair Salinas, Commissioner McKinney The presentation was made by Sophia Benner, Planning Department. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Discussion and possible action to recommend to City Council whether the project 14th and Lavaca, located at 301 West 14th Street, complies with the Urban Design Guidelines for the City of Austin. Presented by Leah Bojo, Drenner Group, PC, Paul Suttles, STG Design, and Cameron Campbell, Campbell Landscape Architecture. The motion to recommend to City Council that the project 14th and Lavaca, located at 301 West 14th Street, complies with the Urban Design Guidelines for the City of Austin was approved on Vice Chair Meiners’ motion, Commissioner McKinney’s second on an 8-0-1 vote. Commissioner Carroll abstained. Commissioner Luckens was absent. Discussion and possible action on the creation and membership of working groups. Sponsors: Chair Salinas, Commissioner McKinney The motion to assign Commissioner Howard, Commissioner McKinney, and Commissioner Wittstruck to the Urban Design Guidelines Working Group was approved on Chair Salinas’ motion, Vice Chair Meiners’ second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Luckens was absent. Discussion and possible action on the 2024 Design Commission meeting schedule. The motion to approve Draft 2 of the 2024 Design Commission meeting schedule was approved on Commissioner Wittstruck’s motion, Vice Chair Meiners’ second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Luckens was absent. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES Update from the Urban Design Guidelines Working Group regarding updates to the …
DESIGN COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20231113-004 8-0-1 14th and Lavaca Vice Chair Meiners November 22, 2023 Seconded By: Commissioner McKinney Date: Subject: Motioned By: Recommendation The Design Commission recommends to City Council that the project located at 14th & Lavaca, as presented on November 13, 2023, complies with the Urban Design Guidelines for the City of Austin. Vote For: Chair Salinas, Vice Chair Meiners, Commissioner Gelles, Commissioner Howard, Commissioner Ladner, Commissioner McKinney, Commissioner Wallace, Commissioner Wittstruck Against: Abstain: Commissioner Carroll Absent: Commissioner Luckens Attest: Jon Salinas, AIA, Design Commission Chair 1 of 1
Austin’s Downtown Density Bonus Program A brief overview and Design Commission’s Role Austin Skyline c. 2000 Austin’s development patterns were changing via CURE Central Urban Redevelopment Combining District (CURE) before DDBP: Modifies site development standards Modifies height and floor-to- area (FAR) ratios Modifies offsite parking and maneuvering Modifies signage, landscaping, and screening Central Urban Redevelopment Combining District (CURE) after DDBP: Modifies site development standards Modifies height and floor-to- area (FAR) ratios Modifies offsite parking and maneuvering Modifies signage, landscaping, and screening Inclusionary vs. Incentive Zoning Inclusionary vs. Incentive Mandatory zoning regulations requiring that a certain number of affordable units are included in developments as a condition of development approval A voluntary zoning regulation (or program) in which, an incentive such as a relaxation in zoning restrictions are offered to a developer in exchange for providing public benefits 2008 City Council direction Supports continued healthy growth DDBP Was based on economic conditions and reflective of the Market Preserves our cultural and natural resources Downtown Affordable Sustainable Authentic Is predictable and transparent Results In clear and quantifiable community benefits City Council direction 2008 2009 2011 2013 Initiation of a Downtown Density Bonus Program Report and Analysis Findings and recommendations from HR&A Advisors Infusion of DDBP recommendations into Downtown Austin Plan DDBP Code amendments modifying CURE and creating 25- 2-586. Ordinance No. 20130627-105 * * 2013 Ordinance established initial development conus fees that were in use until May 2021 City Council direction 2014 2021 2021 Modifications to 25-2-586 to specify community benefits Direction to implement interim revisions to the in-lieu affordable housing fees for residential and non-residential development for the DDBP and Rainey Density Bonus Program (Resolution No. 20210422-039)* Ordinance No. 20210520-009 implements interim development bonus fees Downtown Density Bonus in-lieu fees Overview of 25-2-586 and role of Design Commission Downtown Density Bonus Program - Key Definitions BONUS AREA means the greater of: (a) The gross floor area that exceeds the maximum allowable floor-to-area ratio allowed with the site's primary entitlements; or (b) The gross floor area contained within the portion of a structure that exceeds the maximum height allowed under the site's primary entitlements. COMMUNITY BENEFIT is a public amenity that exceeds the Gatekeeper Requirements of the Downtown Density Bonus Program that is provided by an applicant in order to obtain bonus area. DEVELOPMENT BONUS FEE means the dollar amount an applicant pays to the City per square foot of bonus area. …
An Overview of the Urban Design Guidelines Presented by Sophia Benner, Principal Planner Creation of Austin’s Design Commission §2-1-130 - Design Commission (A) The Design Commission membership should include a diverse group of persons having expertise in urban design, architecture, landscape architecture, historic preservation, civic art, real property development, construction, and economic development. (B) The commission shall provide advisory recommendations to the city council as requested by the city council to assist in developing public policy and to promote excellence in the design and development of the urban environment. (C) The commission shall: (1) offer policy recommendations regarding specific issues of urban design; (2) participate in developing design guidelines; (3) unless otherwise directed by the city council, for projects that require the approval of the Planning Commission or the Zoning and Platting Commission: (a) review a project only after a formal request by the project sponsor or applicant; and (b) complete the review before the respective Planning or Zoning and Platting Commission takes final action; (4) provide citizen education and outreach regarding quality urban design; (5) provide a venue for citizen input on the design and development of the urban environment; (6) maintain liaison relationships with city staff and other boards and commissions; and (7) perform other activities as directed by the city council. (D) The commission may appoint one or more of its members to serve as liaison to a project-specific community advisory group addressing urban design and planning issues at the formal request of the project sponsor. Design Commission Workflow City Council directs the workflow of the Design Commission through ordinances and resolutions DDBP Gatekeeper Requirement: “The Design Commission shall evaluate and make recommendations regarding whether the project complies with the Urban Design Guidelines and the director shall consider comments and recommendations of the Design Commission.” § 25-2-586 – Downtown Density Bonus Program Items requested by City Council or project sponsor § 2-1-130 Municipal AEC rule: Requires all municipal buildings and associated site development which include AEC components to seek Design Commission review Resolution No. 20100923-086 UDG Update: Resolution directing the update to the Urban Design Guidelines Resolution No. 20210902-046 Infrastructure guidelines: Resolution directing staff to work with the Design Commission on recommendations for design guidelines for infrastructure projects commissioned by the City of Austin Resolution No. 20100819-035 City buildings & development: Resolution directing staff to present plans for all municipal buildings & associated site development to the …
14th & Lavaca | Austin, TX Downtown Density Bonus Program Application Package TABLE OF CONTENTS APPLICANT SUMMARY LETTER DOWNTOWN DENSITY BONUS APPLICATION VICINITY PLAN NEARBY TRANSIT FACILITIES SITE PLAN FLOOR PLANS EXTERIOR ELEVATION PLANS ARTISTIC RENDERINGS DEVELOPMENT BONUS COMMUNITY BENEFITS GREAT STREETS EXHIBIT URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES MATRIX SIGNED AUSTIN ENERGY GREEN BUILDING LETTER November 1, 2023 Via Electronic Delivery Ms. Rosie Truelove Planning Department City of Austin 1000 E 11th Street Austin, TX 78702 Dear Ms. Truelove: Re: 14th & Lavaca – Downtown Density Bonus Program (“DDBP”) Application and Summary of Compliance with the City of Austin’s Urban Design Guidelines for a hotel tower project located at 303 and 301 W 14th Street and 1304 and 1308 Lavaca Street related to site development permit application case SP-2022-0550C. On behalf of the property owner, Pearlstone Partners, LLC (“Owner”), please accept this letter and supporting documentation as a true and complete submittal application for the Downtown Density Bonus Program (“DDBP”) for the property located at the southwest corner of 14th Street and Lavaca Street in Austin, Texas (the “Property”) submitted on November 19, 2022. The Owner is seeking to develop a 35-story hotel tower on the Property consisting of 280 hotel keys, equating to 235,325 gross square feet of hotel use with 1/3 of the ground-floor activated with pedestrian oriented uses. The Property is made up of four parcels that are currently vacant lots. The structures that previously occupied the parcels were approved to be demolished on July 21, 2021, as they were not in a condition to be incorporated into redevelopment of the Property, nor were they found to have historical or significance by the Historic Landmark Commission. The Property is located within the Uptown/Capital subdistrict of the Downtown Austin Plan (DAP). The Property is zoned Central Business District – Conditional Overlay (“CBD-CO”); the Conditional Overlay limits the issuance of a site plan or building permit to development of a use that generates more than 2,000 daily trips on the site. The Property is entitled to a floor-to-area ratio (“FAR”) of 8:1. In order to exceed an 8:1 FAR, the applicant is proposing to participate in the Downtown Density Bonus Program (“DDBP”). The gross site area for the Property is 0.41 acres or 17,838 square feet resulting in a base entitlement of 142,704 square feet. The project is seeking 17:1 FAR, which exceeds the maximum 15:1 FAR with the approval of …
Date: To: From: Subject: Nov 6, 2023 City of Austin Design Commission Planning & Urban Design Working Group Density Bonus Working Group review of 14th & Lavaca for substantial compliance with the Urban Design Guidelines Nov 1, 2023; 12:00 pm; Virtual Microsoft Teams Meeting Michele Leah M. Bojo- Drenner Group Meeting date: Applicant: The project is located at the corner of 14th and Lavaca The project includes mixed use of hotel (280 Units) and restaurant space (unknown sq. ft.). The project also includes unknown number of parking levels. The applicant is seeking a Density Bonus to raise the FAR from 8:1 to 17:1 resulting in a total project gross area of 303,246 gsf. The site is 17,838 sf with a current allowable building size of approx.. 142,784 sf based on the current allowable 8:1 FAR. The total proposed building height is 399’-6” (35 floors). The maximum height achievable under the Density Bonus program is unlimited. This site is affected by Capitol View Corridor height restrictions. Per the Density Bonus Program ordinance, the applicant is required to meet the three gatekeeper requirements: Substantially comply with the City’s Urban Design Guidelines Provide streetscape improvements along all public street frontages consistent with the Great Streets Program Standards Applicant must commit to a minimum of 2-star green building rating (Pursuing 3-star rating). WORKING GROUP REVIEW OF PROJECT FOR COMPLIANCE WITH THE URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES AREA WIDE GUIDELINES AW.1 Create dense development: Compliant Recommendations: Density should be expressed in terms of a floor to area ratio for commercial developments and units per acre for residential developments. Standards should be consistent with LEED Neighborhood Design Standards. It is recommended that all current limits on FAR be maintained, and that developments which adopt and abide by the Urban Design Guidelines along with Density Bonus and other specified requirements should be eligible for additional density on a case-by-case basis. Comment: An increase of 17:1 far is being requested from a base zoning FAR of 8:1. Project complies with this Section. AW.2 Create mixed-use development: Partially Compliant Recommendations: At least two different uses per half block are required. Low occupancy uses such as warehouses, storage, and parking will not be counted in the evaluation of mixed use functions. Secondary uses should occur at street level and be adequate in size to create a sense of variety at street level. As the size …
2024 DESIGN COMMISSION MEETING CALENDAR Permitting and Development Center 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr, Austin, TX 78752 PDC Room 1405| 6:00 PM Meeting Date Mondays at 6:00 p.m. (Unless otherwise noted) January 22nd February 26th March 25th April 22nd 1May 20th June 24th July – No Meeting August 26th September 23rd October 28th 2November 11th 3December 16th Materials Deadline 10 days prior to Meeting by close of business (5:00 p.m.) (No Exceptions) Files no larger than 12MB January 12th February 16th March 15th April 12th May 10th June 14th Not Applicable August 16th September 13th October 18th November 1st December 6th 1 Meeting moved from 4th Monday to 3rd Monday due to Memorial Day Holiday. Meeting location: Austin Energy, 4815 Mueller Blvd, Room 1111 2 Meeting moved from 4th Monday to 2nd Monday due to Thanksgiving Holiday occurring this week 3 Meeting moved from 4th Monday to 3rd Monday due to Christmas Holiday. Meeting location: Austin Energy, 4815 Mueller Blvd, Room 1111 Permitting and Development Center 2024 DESIGN COMMISSION MEETING CALENDAR 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr, Austin, TX 78752 PDC Room 1405| 6:00 PM Meeting Date Mondays at 6:00 p.m. (Unless otherwise noted) January 22nd February 26th March 25th April 22nd 1May 13th June 24th July – No Meeting August 26th September 23rd October 28th 2November 11th 3December 9th 1 Meeting moved from 4th Monday to 2nd Monday due to Memorial Day Holiday 2 Meeting moved from 4th Monday to 2nd Monday due to Thanksgiving Holiday 3 Meeting moved from 4th Monday to 2nd Monday due to Christmas Holiday Materials Deadline 10 days prior to Meeting by close of business (5:00 p.m.) (No Exceptions) Files no larger than 12MB January 12th February 16th March 15th April 12th May 3rd June 14th Not Applicable August 16th September 13th October 18th November 1st November 29th
