REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE DOWNTOWN COMMISSION Wednesday July 16, 2025, 5:30 p.m. Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001 301 W 2nd Street Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Downtown 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 or in person, please contact Christi Vitela at Christi.Vitela@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-2792. Jennifer Franklin Nkiru Gelles Nelly Paulina Ramírez Spencer Schumacher CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Ed Ishmael, Chair Kimberly Levinson, Vice Chair Pat Buchta David Carroll Liz Coufal Charles Peveto Nancy Pollak Sania Shifferd Philip Wiley CALL TO ORDER 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 Downtown Commission regular called meeting on May 21, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing by Shanisha Johnson, Planner Principal, District Planning, Planning Department regarding the Downtown Austin Plan Update. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Update regarding the Design Commission’s recent work as it relates to the Downtown Commission. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve the Downtown Commission 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review. 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, at (512) 974-2792 for additional information; TTY users’ route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Downtown Commission, please contact Christi Vitela at Christi.Vitela@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-2792.
Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, May 21, 2025 Downtown Commission Regular Called Meeting Minutes Wednesday May 21, 2025 The Downtown Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Wednesday May 21, 2025, at Austin City Hall Chambers, Room 1001, 301 W 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE: Ed Ishmael, Chair Kimberly Levinson, Vice Chair Peter Breton Pat Buchta David Carroll Nathan McDaniel Charles Peveto Sania Shifferd Phillip Wiley COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY: Liz Coufal Jennifer Franklin Nkiru Gelles Nelly Paulina Ramírez CALL TO ORDER Chair Ishmael called the Downtown Commission Meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Downtown Commission regular called meeting on April 16, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of April 16, 2025, were approved on Vice Chair Levinson’s motion, Commissioner Peveto’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Breton and Shifferd were off the dais. 1 Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, May 21, 2025 STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. 3. Staff briefing by Carey Chaudoir, Commander – Downtown Area Command, Austin Police Department, and Joshua Griggers, Lieutenant – Downtown Operations, Austin Police Department, regarding an update on the reopening of Sixth Street and crime statistics as they relate to the Safer Sixth Street Initiative. The presentation was made by Carey Chaudoir, Commander – Downtown Area Command, Austin Police Department, and Joshua Griggers, Lieutenant – Downtown Operations, Austin Police Department. Staff briefing by Michael Kimbro, Program Manager III, Austin Transportation and Public Works Department, and Joseph Al-Hajeri, parking Enterprise Manager, Austin Transportation and Public Works Department, regarding the Shared Micro Mobility Program. The presentation was made by Michael Kimbro, Program Manager III, Austin Transportation and Public Works Department, and Joseph Al-Hajeri, Parking Enterprise Manager, Austin Transportation and Public Works Department. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Presentation by Nicole Klepadlo, Executive Director, Red River Cultural District, regarding the recent work toward the advancement of tourism and entertainment. The presentation was made by Nicole Klepadlo, Executive Director, Red River Cultural District. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS None. ADJOURNMENT A motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:03 p.m. was approved on Vice Chair Levinson’s motion, Commissioner Breton’s second a 10-0 vote. 2
Annual Internal Review This report covers the time period of 7/1/2024 to 6/30/2025 Downtown Commission The Board/Commission mission statement (per the City Code) is: (1) Advise the City Council and city staff regarding policies and projects impacting downtown Austin; (2) Serve as stewards for the Downtown Austin Plan (DAP) and, as such: a. Serve as a sounding board for the City Council and City of Austin (COA) staff on the implementation of the Downtown Austin Plan (DAP) and Land Development Code rewrite; and b. Offer recommendations on amendments to the DAP and Land Development Code rewrite as needed; (3) Maintain liaison relationships with City staff and other boards and commissions; and (4) Perform other activities as directed by City Council. 1. Describe the board’s actions supporting their mission during the previous calendar year. Address all elements of the board’s mission statement as provided in the relevant sections of the City Code. • Reopening of Sixth Street and crime statistics as they relate to the Safer Sixth Street Initiative • Shared Micro Mobility Program • Red River Cultural District Annual Review and Work Plan • Austin Public Health and Homeless Strategy Office • University Neighborhood Overlay (UNO) • Austin Convention Center Redevelopment • Downtown Austin Historic Resource Survey • Parks and Recreation Board Update • Urban Transportation Commission on Recommendations • Seaholm Multimodal Connectivity Update • Austin Light Rail Progress Update • Waterloo Greenway Conservancy • Downtown Austin Plan Working Group • Great Streets Plan Update • Congress Avenue Urban Design Initiative • Austin Core Transportation Plan Presentation • APD Downtown Area Command Presentation • Nightlife and Entertainment Services Program • Austin Public Library Presentation • Economic and Cultural District Framework Policy Presentation • Shared Mobility Plan Update • Dockless Micromobility Regulations • Street Impact Fees Presentation • Mental Health Resources - Integral Care • Sound Assessment and Disclosure Requirements Proposal • Historic Preservation Survey Presentation • Equity Preservation Plan Presentation The Commission passed the following recommendations: • High Level Goals For DAP Update • Cap and Stitch Initial Funding Recommendation 2. Determine if the board’s actions throughout the year comply with the mission statement. The Commissions actions complied with the mission statement. Annual Review and Work Plan 3. List the board’s goals and objectives for the new calendar year. • Monitor and support the continued implementation and update of the Downtown Austin Plan • Monitor and support Downtown's continuing economic …
Downtown Austin Plan Update Downtown Commission July 16, 2025 Agenda DAP Update Resolution DAP Update as a District Plan Progress-to-date Next Steps DAP Update Resolution Resolution No. 20240814-028 ▪ Initiate updates to the Downtown Austin Plan […], covering the next 10 years at minimum, through an equitable, resilient, and sustainable lens. ▪ Engage with stakeholders, identifying the needs of those who live, work, and visit Downtown, and identifying solutions. ▪ Ensure the implementation and coordination of recently completed projects and plans that are shaping Downtown’s future, to incorporate the needs of unique features of Downtown, and to address the issues that affect growth. 4 Resolution No. 20240814 - 028 ▪ Provide detailed information for implementation including cost estimates, potential partners, funding opportunities, financial tools, and any necessary code amendments for identified projects, programs, policies, and infrastructure recommendations. ▪ Provide a memo to Council outlining estimated cost, scope, and preliminary timeline of the Downtown Austin Plan update, identifying City staff resources, and potential external partnerships or third parties that can assist in providing resources for plan development. 5 DAP Update as a District Plan DAP Update as a District Plan Center City/Central District Plan: Downtown Austin Plan area, South Central Waterfront area, and the UT/University Neighborhood Overlay areas – Lamar Boulevard to the West – Northern UNO boundary to the North – I-35 to the East – Southern South Central Waterfront boundary to the South ▪ Collective area with the highest potential for density ▪ Embrace the evolution of this regional center as identified in the Imagine Austin Growth Concept Map ▪ Leverage Project Connect investments and other transit connectivity in the District 7 Progress-to-date Progress-to-date ▪Preliminary Research – Initial Stakeholder Engagement concluded March 2025 – Implementation Tracking concluding Summer 2025 ▪Draft Scope and Preliminary Cost Estimates – Preliminary Cost Estimates received April 2025 – Final Cost Estimate solicited July 2025 ▪Response to Council – Response to Council sent in May 2025 – https://services.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=451493 9 Next Steps Next Steps ▪Develop draft engagement plan and timeline –In Progress ▪Launch SpeakUp Austin project page –In Progress ▪Onboard consultant –August 2025 11 Thank You
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE DOWNTOWN COMMISSION Wednesday May 21, 2025, 5:30 p.m. Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001 301 W 2nd Street Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Downtown 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 register, please contact Christi Vitela at Christi.Vitela@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-2792. telephone. To Jennifer Franklin Nkiru Gelles Nelly Paulina Ramírez Spencer Schumacher CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Ed Ishmael, Chair Kimberly Levinson, Vice Chair Peter Breton Pat Buchta David Carroll Liz Coufal Nathan McDaniel Charles Peveto Sania Shifferd Philip Wiley CALL TO ORDER 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 Downtown Commission regular called meeting on April 16, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing by Carey Chaudoir, Commander - Downtown Area Command, Austin Police Department, and Joshua Griggers, Lieutenant - Downtown Operations, Austin Police Department, regarding an update on the reopening of Sixth Street and crime statistics as they relate to the Safer Sixth Street Initiative. 3. Staff briefing by Michael Kimbro, Program Manager III, Austin Transportation and Public Works Department, and Joseph Al-Hajeri, Parking Enterprise Manager, Austin Transportation and Public Works Department, regarding the Shared Micro Mobility Program. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Presentation by Nicole Klepadlo, Executive Director, Red River Cultural District, regarding the recent work toward the advancement of tourism and entertainment. 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, at (512) 974-2792 for additional information; TTY users’ route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Downtown Commission, please contact Christi Vitela …
Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, April 16, 2025 DOWNTOWN COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16, 2025 The Downtown Commission convened the regular meeting on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at City Hall, 301W 2nd St, in a hybrid meeting format. COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE Ed Ishmael, Vice-Chair Peter Breton Pat Buchta David Carroll Kimberly Levinson Charles Peveto Philip Wiley COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY Liz Coufal Jennifer Franklin Anne-Charlotte Patterson Nelly Paulina Ramírez CALL TO ORDER Vice Chair Ishmael called the meeting of the Downtown Commission to order at 5:31 pm. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Downtown Commission regular called meeting on March 19, 2025. The minutes from the meeting on March 19, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Peveto’s motion, Commissioner Levinson’s second, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Coufal was off the dais. Commissioner Shifferd was absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, April 16, 2025 2. Staff briefing by Charles Loosen, Community Engagement Consultant, Austin Public Health and David Gray, Homeless Strategy Officer, Homeless Strategy Office, regarding an update on the work of the Homeless Strategy Office in the downtown Austin area. The presentation was made by Charles Loosen, Community Engagement Consultant, Homeless Strategy Office, and David Gray, Homeless Strategy Officer, Homeless Strategy Office. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation and discussion on proposed amendments to the University Neighborhood Overlay (UNO), which includes height allowances, uses, affordability requirements, district boundaries, parking standards, and design criteria. Presentation by Alan Pani, Planner Principal, Planning Department. The presentation was made by Alan Pani, Planner Principal, Planning Department and Paul Books, Principal Planner, Parks and Recreation Department. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair. The motion to approve Commissioner Ishmael as Chair was approved on Commissioner Peveto’s motion, Commissioner Levinson’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Shifferd was absent. The motion to approve Commissioner Levinson as Vice Chair was approved on Commissioner Peveto’s motion, Commissioner Ishmael’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Shifferd was absent. 5. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding Cap and Stitch Initial Funding. The motion to approve the Cap and Stitch Initial Funding Recommendation was made by Commissioner Peveto, seconded by Commissioner Levinson. A motion to amend the recommendation as follows was made by Commissioner Breton and seconded by Commissioner Levinson. The amendment was to revise “Ceaser” to “Cesar” and add a “th” after “12” on the third …
UPDATE ON MICROMOBILITY AND DIRECTOR RULES Downtown Commission May 21, 2025 1 5/21/2025 Michael Kimbro – Program Manager, Shared Mobility Services AGENDA • PROGRAM UPDATE • COMMUNITY & STAKEHOLDER OUTREACH • DIRECTOR RULES 2 5/21/2025 TRIP DATA Changes to Micromobility program in April 2024 • Limiting devices citywide • Reducing devices downtown core • Changes to Customer Service Request reporting Total Trips Downtown Trips Total Trips per Day Downtown Trips per Day Total Available Vehicles Downtown Vehicles Total TVD* Downtown TVD* Customer Service Requests April 1, 2023 – March 31, 2024 April 1, 2024 – March 31, 2025 2,915,815 2,850,455 1,997,837 1,810,541 7,159 4,422 7,395 7,159 4,076 5,229 14000 12000 10000 8000 6000 4000 2000 0 4,086 2,280 Customer Service Requests April 2023 - March 2024 April 2024 - March 2025 1.21 1.1 1.36 1.79 3 5/21/2025 *Trips per Vehicle per Day COMMUNITY & STAKEHOLDER OUTREACH Community Feedback • Vision Zero Community Board • Mayors Committee for People with Disabilities • University of Texas Market Days • Community online survey • Micromobility Open House • Intercept surveys (Planned) Stakeholder Feedback • Multiple meetings with current vendors and TPW leadership • Ongoing monthly vendor meetings with staff • Multiple meetings with Vision Zero team Image from Micromobility Open House at Carver Library on March 24th 4 5/21/2025 COMMUNITY OUTREACH – SURVEY Key Takeaways • 54% do not ride because of safety concerns • 51% ride to Entertainment • 30% use to commute for work or school • 49% consider devices to be somewhat or very safe • 20% have experienced a crash on a shared device • 61% are concerned about blocked sidewalks • 51% concerned by dangerous rider behavior 5 5/21/2025 Recurring Themes • Need for more bicycle infrastructure • Protected bike lanes mentioned frequently • Poor road conditions and poor lighting • Lack of dedicated parking • Feeling that scooter design is dangerous • Need more helmet usage • Unsafe operation • More rider education • Strong support for CapMetro Bikeshare and desire for expansion COMMUNITY OUTREACH – SURVEY Summary of comments drivers.“ I think shared scooters are a good thing, but I do sometimes feel they are not safe to drive around due to vehicle “ ” They should have to be returned to established banks. The fact that they can be strewn anywhere is absurd - a safety hazard and an eyesore. They also should not be …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE DOWNTOWN COMMISSION Wednesday April 16, 2025, 5:30 p.m. Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001 301 W 2nd Street Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Downtown 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 register, please contact Christi Vitela at Christi.Vitela@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-2792. telephone. To CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Ed Ishmael, Vice Chair Peter Breton Pat Buchta David Carroll Liz Coufal Kimberly Levinson Charles Peveto Sania Shifferd Philip Wiley CALL TO ORDER AGENDA Jennifer Franklin Nkiru Gelles Amy Mok Anne Charlotte Patterson Nelly Paulina Ramírez Spencer Schumacher 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 Downtown Commission regular called meeting on March 19, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing by Charles Loosen, Community Engagement Consultant, Austin Public Health and David Gray, Homeless Strategy Officer, Homeless Strategy Office, regarding an update on the work of the Homeless Strategy Office in the downtown Austin area. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation and discussion on proposed amendments to the University Neighborhood Overlay (UNO), which includes height allowances, uses, affordability requirements, district boundaries, parking standards, and design criteria. Presentation by Alan Pani, Planner Principal, Planning Department. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair. 5. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding Cap and Stitch Initial Funding. 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, at (512) 974-2792 for additional information; TTY users’ route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Downtown Commission, please contact Christi Vitela …
Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, March 19, 2025 DOWNTOWN COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19, 2025 The Downtown Commission convened the regular meeting on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at City Hall, 301W 2nd St, in a hybrid meeting format. COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE Ed Ishmael, Vice-Chair David Carroll Liz Coufal Kimberly Levinson Charles Peveto Sania Shifferd Philip Wiley COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY Jennifer Franklin Nkiru Gelles Anne-Charlotte Patterson Nelly Paulina Ramírez Spencer Schumacher CALL TO ORDER Vice Chair Ishmael called the meeting of the Downtown Commission to order at 5:31 pm. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Downtown Commission regular called meeting on February 19, 2025. The minutes from the meeting on February 19, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Peveto’s motion, Commissioner Levinson’s second, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Breton was absent. Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, March 19, 2025 STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding the recent work towards renovating the Austin Convention Center. Presentation by Trisha Tatro, Director, Austin Convention Center Department. The presentation was made by Katy Zamesnik, Assistant Director, Austin Convention Center, and Riley Triggs, Capital Delivery Consultant, Capital Delivery Services Department. 3. Staff briefing regarding the Austin Historic Resource Survey by the Historic Preservation Office. Presentation by Sofia Wagner, Planner III, Planning Department. The presentation was made by Sofia Wagner, Planner III, Planning Department. DISCUSSION ITEMS Item 5 was taken up before Item 4 without objection. 5. Update from the liaison from the Urban Transportation Commission on Recommendation Number 20250304-003: Austin Core Transportation Plan and Recommendation Number 20250304-006: Austin Light Rail Draft Environmental Impact Statement. Discussed. 4. Update from the liaison from the Parks and Recreation Board on the topics discussed at the January 2025, and February 2025, board meetings. Discussed. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS University Neighborhood Overlay Officer Elections Shared Micromobility Program Homeless Office Update Downtown Austin Plan Update Red River Cultural District ADJOURNMENT A motion to adjourn the meeting at 6:59 p.m. was approved on Commissioner Levinson’s motion, Commissioner Peveto’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Breton was absent.
C20-2024-010 UNO Update Downtown Commission April 16, 2025 Alan Pani, Principal Planner Content Background Process Proposed Changes Next Steps Background Subdistrict Outer West Inner West Guadalupe Dobie Background UNO: A Brief History – Established in 2004 (Updated: 2014, 2019) – Overlay district for the West University area designed to promote high-density and pedestrian-oriented redevelopment that maintains the existing character of the area – Helped to facilitate population growth to over 28,000 residents in the West Campus area 4 City Council Resolution Resolution No. 20240418-077 – Adopted on April 18, 2024 – Includes 29 distinct items for further investigation – Initiated updates to the Land Development Code & Building Criteria Manual – Requested programmatic updates – Land Development Code changes to be considered in Spring 2025 5 Resolution Goals Provide quality, safe, affordable living for all, especially for students attending colleges and universities by: Increasing housing capacity, quality, and affordability Ensuring the area provides daily needs and services Supporting the implementation of light rail and mobility enhancements 6 Land Development Code Council Direction Height limits achievable with participation in the University Neighborhood Overlay (UNO) density bonus program in alignment with the Planning Commission's recommendation to remove height limits for Inner West Campus and Dobie Height limits that are similar to what can be achieved with participation in the ETOD overlay, at minimum Expansion of UNO boundaries Subdistrict boundaries that expand Inner West Campus An appropriate step down of heights within expansion areas Modifying development requirements to discourage above-ground parking and encourage shared parking and underground parking Stakeholder and community engagement 7 Process How it Works 3-Step Process for Code Amendments: Initiation Development & Engagement Review & Adoption 9 Rezoning Process To update the regulations, staff proposes to create a new zoning district that incorporates the existing overlay with requested updates Rezoning requires notice to impacted properties and review by the Planning Commission and City Council at public hearings 10 Plan Amendment Process UNO is part of the Central Austin Combined Neighborhood Plan, an element of the Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan Current Future Land Use Map 11 Plan Amendment Process Mixed use land use designation allows up to 3:1 floor-to-area ratio (FAR) High density mixed use is appropriate for areas with 3:1 FAR or greater Staff propose updating the Central Austin Combined Neighborhood Plan to ensure …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Downtown Commission Recommendation Number_________________________: Cap and Stitch Initial Funding Recommendation: WHEREAS the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)’s I-35 Capital Express Central project will lower the highway’s main lanes between Lady Bird Lake and Airport Boulevard; and WHEREAS the City of Austin has identified a once-in-a-generation opportunity to change the landscape of Central Austin through the construction of "caps" and "stitches" over the highway (“Caps and Stiches); and WHEREAS the City of Austin has undertaken the Our Future 35 Austin project which is a community-centered initiative to create public spaces along the I-35 corridor caps and stitches that will reconnect East and West Austin; and WHEREAS the Caps and Stitches, while being built and once completed, will directly impact the quality of life for those working and living in Downtown; and WHEREAS the City of Austin is in the process of developing plans for constructing the Caps and Stitches; and WHEREAS the City has identified phases of the Cap and Stitch Construction which are: • Ceasar Chavez to 4ht Street 4th Street to 7th Street • 11th Street to 12 street • 38th Street to Airport Blvd. (Northern Cap); and • WHEREAS I-35 from Lady Bird Lake to Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard marks the eastern boundary of the Downtown Commission’s jurisdiction; and WHEREAS the Downtown Commission supports the timely and efficient planning and construction of the Caps and Stitches; and WHEREAS the City of Austin is considering several funding and design options for the roadway elements of the Caps and Stitches; and WHEREAS City staff has presented funding scenarios to the City Council for consideration; and WHEREAS the Our Future 35 project has included years of stakeholder engagement and visioning for building out each full cap; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin has provided options for shortened (800’) caps along the I-35 corridor; and WHEREAS the 800’ shortened caps scenario does not support the design and vision of the Our Future 35 project; and WHEREAS neither funding scenario includes design and construction of the full-size caps envisioned in the Our Future 35 Austin project even though the intention is to someday finish the full caps; and WHEREAS: it is the considered opinion of the Downtown Commission that funding of the Our Future 35 roadway elements should include all full-size caps. NOW THEREFORE we, the Commissioners of the Austin Downtown Commission, do hereby strongly recommend and urge the Austin …
HOMELESS STRATEGY OFFICE CITY OF AUSTIN DOWNTOWN COMMISSION David Gray Homeless Strategy Officer City of Austin Est. Homeless Population: 6,300 People Exiting Homelessness: 3,000 (50% increase from 2022) Unique People Served: 24,300 (60% increase from 2022) First-Time Service Recipients: 8,400 (72% increase from 2022) Chronic Homeless Rate: 30% 2023 AUSTIN-TRAVIS COUNTY HOMELESS RESPONSE SYSTEM (HRS) DATA/METRICS HOMELESS STRATEGY OFFICE ESTABLISHED DECEMBER 2023 The Homeless Strategy Office (HSO) collaborates with public agencies, community organizations, and individuals to make homelessness rare, brief, and nonrecurring. Homeless Strategy Office Core Objectives 1. Manage the City of Austin’s homeless response resources, including 80+ contracts with various providers. 2. Create and support opportunities to produce more shelter and housing options for people experiencing homelessness. 3. Prioritize and coordinate cleanups and closures of encampments on public land. 4. Collaborate with research partners to incorporate best practices into services. 5. Proactively communicate the City of Austin’s efforts to make homelessness rare, brief, and nonrecurring. 6. Broaden the base of financial support for local initiatives and organizations. HOMELESS STRATEGY OFFICE STRATEGIES TO ADDRESS HOMELESSNESS Homeless Prevention: Activities that support households at-risk of homelessness. Street Outreach: Activities that meet the immediate needs of people living unsheltered. Public Space Management: Activities that ensure public spaces are safe, accessible, and welcoming for all community members. Diversion/Rapid Exit: Activities that immediately address the needs of someone who has recently lost their housing and become homeless. Emergency Shelters: Facilities that provide people experiencing homelessness with access to food, sleep, medical care, and safety. Rapid Rehousing (RRH): Activities that provide short- term rental assistance and case management services to help tenants stabilize in their new homes. Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH): A long-term housing model that combines affordable housing with case management and supportive services. PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT: HOUSING-FOCUSED ENCAMPMENT ASSISTANCE LINK (HEAL) Austin City Council Resolution No. 20210204-049 • The HEAL initiative compassionately closes the most unsafe encampments in our city. • Everyone residing at an encampment is offered a direct path to shelter and opportunities for stable housing. • Two emergency shelters (called “BRIDGE” shelters) are designated for HEAL. • 71% of clients who enter shelters have been homeless for 12+ months. • Half of clients leaving shelter go to a housing destinations. 31 Encampment Decommissions 1075 People Moved to Bridge Shelter AUSTIN EMERGENCY SHELTER NETWORK CITY-OWNED SHELTER LOCATIONS Shelter Name and Location 1. Austin Resource Center for the Homeless (ARCH) 130 semi-congregate beds Male …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Downtown Commission Recommendation Number_________________________: Cap and Stitch Initial Funding Recommendation: WHEREAS the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)’s I-35 Capital Express Central project will lower the highway’s main lanes between Lady Bird Lake and Airport Boulevard; and WHEREAS the City of Austin has identified a once-in-a-generation opportunity to change the landscape of Central Austin through the construction of "caps" and "stitches" over the highway (“Caps and Stiches); and WHEREAS the City of Austin has undertaken the Our Future 35 Austin project which is a community-centered initiative to create public spaces along the I-35 corridor caps and stitches that will reconnect East and West Austin; and WHEREAS the Caps and Stitches, while being built and once completed, will directly impact the quality of life for those working and living in Downtown; and WHEREAS the City of Austin is in the process of developing plans for constructing the Caps and Stitches; and WHEREAS the City has identified phases of the Cap and Stitch Construction which are: • Ceasar Chavez to 4ht Street • 4th Street to 7th Street 11th Street to 12 street • 38th Street to Airport Blvd. (Northern Cap); and • WHEREAS I-35 from Lady Bird Lake to Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard marks the eastern boundary of the Downtown Commission’s jurisdiction; and WHEREAS the Downtown Commission supports the timely and efficient planning and construction of the Caps and Stitches; and WHEREAS the City of Austin is considering several funding and design options for the roadway elements of the Caps and Stitches; and Draft WHEREAS City staff has presented funding scenarios to the City Council for consideration; and WHEREAS the Our Future 35 project has included years of stakeholder engagement and visioning for building out each full cap; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin has provided options for shortened (800’) caps along the I-35 corridor; and WHEREAS the 800’ shortened caps scenario does not support the design and vision of the Our Future 35 project; and WHEREAS neither funding scenario includes design and construction of the full-size caps envisioned in the Our Future 35 Austin project; and WHEREAS: it is the considered opinion of the Downtown Commission that funding of the Our Future 35 roadway elements should include all full-size caps. NOW THEREFORE we, the Commissioners of the Austin Downtown Commission, do hereby strongly recommend and urge the Austin City Council to fully fund the roadway elements necessary to …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Downtown Commission Recommendation Number 20250416-005: Cap and Stitch Initial Funding Recommendation: WHEREAS the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)’s I-35 Capital Express Central project will lower the highway’s main lanes between Lady Bird Lake and Airport Boulevard; and WHEREAS the City of Austin has identified a once-in-a-generation opportunity to change the landscape of Central Austin through the construction of "caps" and "stitches" over the highway (“Caps and Stitches); and WHEREAS the City of Austin has undertaken the Our Future 35 Austin project which is a community-centered initiative to create public spaces along the I-35 corridor caps and stitches that will reconnect East and West Austin; and WHEREAS the Caps and Stitches, while being built and once completed, will directly impact the quality of life for those working and living in Downtown; and WHEREAS the City of Austin is in the process of developing plans for constructing the Caps and Stitches; and WHEREAS the City has identified phases of the Cap and Stitch Construction which are: • Cesar Chavez to 4th Street • 4th Street to 7th Street • 11th Street to 12th Street • 38th Street to Airport Blvd. (Northern Cap); and WHEREAS I-35 from Lady Bird Lake to Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard marks the eastern boundary of the Downtown Commission’s jurisdiction; and WHEREAS the Downtown Commission supports the timely and efficient planning and construction of the Caps and Stitches; and WHEREAS the City of Austin is considering several funding and design options for the roadway elements of the Caps and Stitches; and WHEREAS City staff has presented funding scenarios to the City Council for consideration; and WHEREAS the Our Future 35 project has included years of stakeholder engagement and visioning for building out each full cap; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin has provided options for shortened (800’) caps along the I-35 corridor; and WHEREAS the 800’ shortened caps scenario does not support the design and vision of the Our Future 35 project; and WHEREAS neither funding scenario includes design and construction of the full-size caps envisioned in the Our Future 35 Austin project; and WHEREAS: it is the considered opinion of the Downtown Commission that funding of the Our Future 35 roadway elements should include all full-size caps. NOW THEREFORE we, the Commissioners of the Austin Downtown Commission, do hereby strongly recommend and urge the Austin City Council to fully fund the roadway elements necessary to …
Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, April 16, 2025 DOWNTOWN COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16, 2025 The Downtown Commission convened the regular meeting on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at City Hall, 301W 2nd St, in a hybrid meeting format. COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE Ed Ishmael, Vice-Chair Peter Breton Pat Buchta David Carroll Kimberly Levinson Charles Peveto Philip Wiley COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY Liz Coufal Jennifer Franklin Anne-Charlotte Patterson Nelly Paulina Ramírez CALL TO ORDER Vice Chair Ishmael called the meeting of the Downtown Commission to order at 5:31 pm. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Downtown Commission regular called meeting on March 19, 2025. The minutes from the meeting on March 19, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Peveto’s motion, Commissioner Levinson’s second, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Coufal was off the dais. Commissioner Shifferd was absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, April 16, 2025 2. Staff briefing by Charles Loosen, Community Engagement Consultant, Austin Public Health and David Gray, Homeless Strategy Officer, Homeless Strategy Office, regarding an update on the work of the Homeless Strategy Office in the downtown Austin area. The presentation was made by Charles Loosen, Community Engagement Consultant, Homeless Strategy Office, and David Gray, Homeless Strategy Officer, Homeless Strategy Office. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation and discussion on proposed amendments to the University Neighborhood Overlay (UNO), which includes height allowances, uses, affordability requirements, district boundaries, parking standards, and design criteria. Presentation by Alan Pani, Planner Principal, Planning Department. The presentation was made by Alan Pani, Planner Principal, Planning Department and Paul Books, Principal Planner, Parks and Recreation Department. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair. The motion to approve Commissioner Ishmael as Chair was approved on Commissioner Peveto’s motion, Commissioner Levinson’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Shifferd was absent. The motion to approve Commissioner Levinson as Vice Chair was approved on Commissioner Peveto’s motion, Commissioner Ishmael’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Shifferd was absent. 5. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding Cap and Stitch Initial Funding. The motion to approve the Cap and Stitch Initial Funding Recommendation was made by Commissioner Peveto, seconded by Commissioner Levinson. A motion to amend the recommendation as follows was made by Commissioner Breton and seconded by Commissioner Levinson. The amendment was to revise “Ceaser” to “Cesar” and add a “th” after “12” on the third …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE DOWNTOWN COMMISSION Wednesday March 19, 2025, 5:30 p.m. Austin City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 1001 301 W 2nd Street Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Downtown 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 register, please contact Ryan Sperling at Ryan.Sperling@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-3568. telephone. To CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Ed Ishmael, Vice Chair Peter Breton David Carroll Liz Coufal Kimberly Levinson Charles Peveto Sania Shifferd Philip Wiley CALL TO ORDER Jennifer Franklin Nkiru Gelles Amy Mok Anne Charlotte Patterson Nelly Paulina Ramírez Spencer Schumacher 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 19, 2025. 1. Approve the minutes of the Downtown Commission regular called meeting on February STAFF BRIEFINGS DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Staff briefing regarding the recent work towards renovating the Austin Convention Center. Presentation by Trisha Tatro, Director, Austin Convention Center Department. 3. Staff briefing regarding the Austin Historic Resource Survey by the Historic Preservation Office. Presentation by Sofia Wagner, Planner III, Planning Department. 4. Update from the liaison from the Parks and Recreation Board on the topics discussed at the January 2025, and February 2025, board meetings. 5. Update from the liaison from the Urban Transportation Commission on Recommendation Number 20250304-003: Austin Core Transportation Plan and Recommendation Number 20250304-006: Austin Light Rail Draft Environmental Impact Statement. 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, at (512) 974-2792 for additional information; TTY users’ route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Downtown Commission, please contact Ryan Sperling at Ryan.Sperling@austintexas.gov or …
Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, February 19, 2025 DOWNTOWN COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2025 The Downtown Commission convened the regular meeting on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at City Hall, 301W 2nd St, in a hybrid meeting format. COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE August Harris, Chair Ed Ishmael, Vice-Chair Peter Breton David Carroll Kimberly Levinson Charles Peveto Sania Shifferd COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY Liz Coufal Jennifer Franklin Nkiru Gelles Amy Mok Anne-Charlotte Patterson Nelly Paulina Ramírez Spencer Schumacher CALL TO ORDER Chair Harris called the meeting of the Downtown Commission to order at 5:30 pm. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Philip Whiley – Observations on Austin Land Development Code APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Downtown Commission regular called meeting on January 15, 2025. The minutes from the meeting on January 15, 2025, were approved on Commissioner Levinson’s motion, Commissioner Shifferd’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Breton was off the dais. Commissioner Lavigne was absent. Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, February 19, 2025 STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing regarding the Seaholm area multi-modal improvements by Alex Payson, Capital Improvement Program Manager, Austin Transportation and Public Works. The presentation was made by Alex Payson, Capital Improvement Program Manager, Austin Transportation and Public Works. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Update on the progress of the Austin Light Rail. Presentation by Austin Transit Partnership staff. The presentation was made by Sean Barry and Deron Lozano, Austin Transit Partnership. 4. Discussion of the proposed reorganization of certain Boards and Commissions as outlined in Austin City Council Resolution 20241212-133. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEM 5. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding High Level Goals for the Downtown Austin Plan Update. The motion to approve a Recommendation to Council regarding High Level Goals for the Downtown Austin Plan Update was approved on Commissioner Levinson’s motion, Commissioner Peveto’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Lavigne was absent. Election of officers in April FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT Chair Harris adjourned the meeting at 6:36 pm without any objection.
City of Austin Downtown Historic Resource Survey Downtown Commission Meeting, March 19, 2025 Agenda What Does a Historic Resource Survey Do? Downtown Austin Historic Resource Survey Survey Boundary What’s Inside the Survey? Survey Timeline Frequently Asked Questions Where to Find the Survey Draft What Does a Historic Resource Survey Do? Highlights potential historic properties by identifying older buildings and areas that help to tell the story of an important person, community, group, or the city as a whole; or exhibit significant architecture or landscape design. Includes fieldwork, archival research, and oral histories. Ensures that historically significant resources are recorded. Results are available for public use. Is an information-gathering tool only – does not include zoning changes. 3 Downtown Austin Historic Resource Survey 45+ year old buildings in Downtown Austin 1,313 potential historic resources Survey boundary: Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd on the north, I-35 on the east, Lady Bird Lake on the south, and MoPac on the west Background research for Historic Preservation Office Background research for community use Conducted by HHM & Associates 4 Survey Boundary 5 What’s Inside the Survey? 6 What’s Inside the Survey? 7 What’s Inside the Survey? 8 Survey Timeline Project Initiation 1st Public Meeting Public Comment Period Opens Deadline for Public Comments Oct. 2023 Dec. 18, 2023 March 26, 2025 May 9, 2025 Nov. 2023 May 13, 2024 April 16, 2025 July 2, 2025 Draft Fieldwork 2nd Public Meeting (Virtual) 3rd Public Meeting (Virtual) Presentation to Historic Landmark Commission 9 Frequently Asked Questions Q: Will the survey change the zoning on my property? A: No. The survey consultants will evaluate whether properties are eligible for potential designation as future landmarks, historic districts, or listing on the National Register of Historic Places. Q: Will the survey change my property taxes? A: No. Q: If I want to designate my property based on the survey’s recommendations, how will that work? A: If property owners choose to designate a landmark or historic district based on the recommendations, it will entail a rezoning process. The City of Austin Historic Preservation Office will help guide you through the process. Q: If I choose to designate my property, will my taxes change? A: Maybe. Locally designated landmarks are eligible for a partial property tax exemption. Properties in locally designated historic districts can receive a tax abatement for rehabilitation work. 10 Review and Comment on Draft Survey Public Comment Period opens …
