REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE DOWNTOWN COMMISSION Wednesday September 17, 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. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Ed Ishmael, Chair Kimberly Levinson, Vice Chair Pat Buchta David Carroll Liz Coufal Nathan McDaniel Charles Peveto Nancy Pollak Sania Shifferd Philip Wiley Jennifer Franklin Nkiru Gelles Nelly Paulina Ramírez 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 August 20, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Update on the Downtown Austin Strategic Initiative (DASI). Presentation by Jon Fortune, Deputy City Manager, Austin City Manager’s Office. 3. Update from the Public Safety Commission representative regarding the Austin Police’s response to questions about their process with regards to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Public Safety Commission’s future discussions regarding this topic. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding Downtown Commission Boundary Expansion. 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, August 20, 2025 Downtown Commission Regular Called Meeting Minutes Wednesday August 20, 2025 The Downtown Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Wednesday August 20, 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 Pat Buchta David Carroll Liz Coufal Nathan McDaniel Charles Peveto Nancy Pollak Sania Shifferd Philip Wiley COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY: Nelly Paulina Ramírez CALL TO ORDER Chair Ishmael called the Downtown Commission Meeting to order at 5:35 p.m. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Downtown Commission regular called meeting on July 16, 2025. 1 Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, August 20, 2025 The minutes from the meeting of July 16, 2025, were approved on Vice Chair Levinson’s motion, Commissioner Peveto’s second, on a 10-0 vote. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation by David A. Colligan, Chief Operating Officer, Rally Austin, regarding possible downtown site developments. The presentation was made by David A. Colligan, Chief Operating Officer, Rally Austin. 3. Presentation by Pat Buchta, Chief Executive Officer, regarding Austin Texas Musicians. The presentation was made by Pat Buchta, Chief Executive Officer, Austin Texas Musicians and Frances Ferguson, Community Member and Member of the Austin Presbyterian Church. 4. Presentation by Daniel Kavelman, Projects and Policy Manager, Shoal Creek Conservancy, regarding the Cypress and Shoal Creek Public Space Strategy. The presentation was made by Daniel Kavelman, Projects and Policy Manager, Shoal Creek Conservancy. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding Homelessness Response 24-Hour Oasis Access. The motion to approve the recommendation was made by Vice Chair Levinson and seconded by Commissioner Shifferd. The following amendment was made by Commissioner McDaniel and seconded by Chair Ishmael. The amendment was to move the move the last Whereas clause on page 1 to the top of page 2 and add the first Whereas clause on page 2 to the end of page 1 and strike the words “on Friday and Saturday nights.” The amendment was approved on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Coufal abstained. The Recommendation to Council regarding Homelessness Response 24-Hour Oasis Access was approved as amended on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Coufal abstained. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS None ADJOURNMENT A motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:21 p.m. was approved on Vice Chair Levinson’s motion, Commissioner McDaniel’s second a 10-0 vote. …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Downtown Commission Recommendation Number: ___________________: DOWNTOWN COMMISSION BOUNDARY EXPANSION WHEREAS the Austin Council on August 14, 2024, passed Resolution 20240814-028 calling for an update to the Downtown Austin Plan (DAP); WHEREAS the purpose of the Downtown Commission, as spelled out in its Bylaws is to advise the City Council and city staff regarding policies and projects impacting downtown Austin; serve as stewards for the Downtown Austin Plan and, as such: serve as a sounding board for the City Council and staff on the implementation of the Downtown Austin Plan and offer recommendations on amendments to the Downtown Austin Plan as needed Downtown Commission (DTC) of the City of Austin is charged with stewarding the DAP; and WHEREAS the City of Austin Planning Department by memo in response to City Council Resolution No.20240814-028 recommended that the current boundaries of the Downtown Austin Plan be expanded; and WHEREAS the Planning Staff noted that: • A renewed vision of Downtown should account for its immediate needs while acknowledging the regional context of its relationship to surrounding areas. • Planning Staff recommended the development of a District Plan • Broadening the DAP update to a District Plan with a larger geography would acknowledge the regional nature of the urban core in the city and create intentionality in planning for it. WHEREAS Planning Staff recommended that the proposed District Plan include the University Neighborhood Overlay (UNO) area to the north, Downtown, and the South-Central Waterfront area to the south, bordered by Lamar Boulevard to the west and I-35 to the east, and would be referred to as the Center City / Central District Plan Area. WHEREAS the current boundaries of the Downtown Commission as set forth in the Bylaws as being Martin Luther King, Kr. Boulevard to the north, Interstate Highway 35 to the east, Lady Bird Lake to the south and Lamar Boulevard to the west; and WHEREAS there currently exists a South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board (SCWAB) charged with providing continuity and communication among stakeholders and advocates as the South- Central Waterfront Plan moves towards implementation and to provide 15 recommendations to the city council regarding plan implementation; and WHEREAS the South-Central Waterfront is bounded by South First Street on the west, Blunn Creek to the east, Lady Bird Lake on the north, and East Riverside Drive and East Bouldin Creek on the south; and WHEREAS SCWAB has met once in 2025; …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Downtown Commission Recommendation Number: ___________________: DOWNTOWN COMMISSION BOUNDARY EXPANSION WHEREAS the Austin Council on August 14, 2024, passed Resolution 20240814-028 calling for an update to the Downtown Austin Plan (DAP); WHEREAS the purpose of the Downtown Commission, as spelled out in its Bylaws is to advise the City Council and city staff regarding policies and projects impacting downtown Austin; serve as stewards for the Downtown Austin Plan and, as such: 1) serve as a sounding board for the City Council and staff on the implementation of the Downtown Austin Plan, and 2) offer recommendations on amendments to the Downtown Austin Plan as needed; and WHEREAS the current boundaries of the Downtown Commission are set forth in the Bylaws as being Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard to the north, Interstate Highway 35 to the east, Lady Bird Lake to the south and Lamar Boulevard to the west; and WHEREAS the current DAP boundaries are concurrent with the Downtown Commission boundaries; and WHEREAS the City of Austin Planning Department by memo in response to City Council Resolution No.20240814-028 recommended that the current boundaries of the Downtown Austin Plan be expanded; and WHEREAS the Planning Staff noted that: • A renewed vision of Downtown should account for its immediate needs while acknowledging the regional context of its relationship to surrounding areas. • Planning Staff recommended the development of a District Plan • Broadening the DAP update to a District Plan with a larger geography would acknowledge the regional nature of the urban core in the city and create intentionality in planning for it. WHEREAS Planning Staff recommended that the proposed District Plan include Downtown, the University Neighborhood Overlay (UNO) area to the north, and the South-Central Waterfront area to the south, bordered by Lamar Boulevard to the west and I-35 to the east, and would be referred to as the Center City / Central District Plan Area. WHEREAS there currently exists a South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board (SCWAB) charged with providing continuity and communication among stakeholders and advocates as the South- Central Waterfront Plan moves towards implementation and to provide recommendations to the city council regarding plan implementation; and WHEREAS the South-Central Waterfront is bounded by South First Street on the west, Blunn Creek to the east, Lady Bird Lake on the north, and East Riverside Drive and East Bouldin Creek on the south; and WHEREAS SCWAB has met once in 2025; …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE DOWNTOWN COMMISSION Wednesday August 20, 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. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Ed Ishmael, Chair Kimberly Levinson, Vice Chair Pat Buchta David Carroll Liz Coufal Nathan McDaniel Charles Peveto Nancy Pollak Sania Shifferd Philip Wiley Jennifer Franklin Nkiru Gelles Nelly Paulina Ramírez 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 July 16, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation by David A. Colligan, Chief Operating Officer, Rally Austin, regarding possible downtown site developments. 3. Presentation by Pat Buchta, Chief Executive Officer, regarding Austin Texas Musicians. 4. Presentation by Daniel Kavelman, Projects and Policy Manager, Shoal Creek Conservancy, regarding the Cypress and Shoal Creek Public Space Strategy. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding Homelessness Response 24-Hour Oasis Access. 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, July 16, 2025 Downtown Commission Regular Called Meeting Minutes Wednesday July 16, 2025 The Downtown Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Wednesday July 16, 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 Pat Buchta David Carroll Nathan McDaniel Charles Peveto COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY: Jennifer Franklin Nkiru Gelles Nancy Pollak Nelly Paulina Ramírez Sania Shifferd 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 May 21, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of May 21, 2025, were approved on Vice Chair Levinson’s motion, Commissioner Peveto’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner Shifferd was off the dais. Commissioner Pollak abstained. Commissioners Coufal and Wiley were absent. 1 Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, July 16, 2025 STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing by Shanisha Johnson, Planner Principal, District Planning, Planning Department regarding the Downtown Austin Plan Update. The presentation was made by Shanisha Johnson, Planner Principal, District Planning, Planning Department. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Update regarding the Design Commission’s recent work as it relates to the Downtown Commission. Commissioner Gelles provided an update. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve the Downtown Commission 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review. The motion to submit the Downtown Commission 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review without the commission’s approval was approved on Vice Chair Levinson’s motion, Commissioner Peveto’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Coufal and Wiley were absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Shoal Creek Conservancy Austin Texas Musicians ADJOURNMENT A motion to adjourn the meeting at 6:18 p.m. was approved on Vice Chair Levinson’s motion, Commissioner Peveto’s second an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Coufal and Wiley were absent. 2
DOWNTOWN CREATIVE HUB PROPOSAL BACKGROUND While Austin has long branded itself as the “Live Music Capital Of The World”, Austin Texas Musicians has learned from its base of 6000+ working Central Texas musicians that they, by and large, are less and less interested in playing downtown due to a variety of challenges, including: • Safety • Parking • Performance Pay Rates • Green Room Space BACKGROUND With less and less musicians performing in the downtown core, Austin’s vital tourism economy is in danger of collapse. Rather that keeping pace with rapid downtown growth, our cultural economy stands to disappear, leaving a downtown core that serves only new residents and businesses, while losing the vital tourism dollars that drive sustainability and future growth. Additionally, 2023 news reports show that downtown offices spaces are becoming increasingly vacant, underlining need for services that bring new revenue sources to downtown Austin. Musicians must be able to work downtown in a way that is safe and economically feasible. A THREE-TIERED SOLUTION Austin Texas Musicians nonprofit proposes the following three-tiered solution that will serve to bring music back to downtown austin: 1. Redevelop existing downtown spaces to serve as a “Green Room” Creative Hub 2. Create parking solutions in partnership with Travis County D.A. Garza and Judge Brown 3. Bolster existing “Gig Buddy” program with Council action and budget for Block-by-Block liability insurance and increased overnight staff BACKGROUND Austin’s former City Hall municipal building, located at 8th & Colorado, is currently being reviewed by Rally Austin as a potential Creative Hub. With 60,000 sq. ft. of space across three floors and a basement, Austin is now presented with a rare opportunity to support our Cultural Arts ecosystem. CREATIVE HUB • At 60,000 sq. ft., three stories and a full basement with garage and hydraulic load-in, the old City Hall building at 8th & Colorado holds immense potential as a Creative Hub for music, theater and dance. • ATXM toured the space in the summer of 2023 upon the invitation of Rally Austin. • We then polled group members to determine best uses of such a space for our music community: CREATIVE HUB: POTENTIAL USES • Overwhelmingly, group members pointed to need for a “Green Room” space of sorts… a safe place where they can go before and after downtown gigs to prep for performance, send booking emails, or work on marketing. • Arts nonprofit offices to …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Downtown Commission Recommendation Number: ___________________: HOMELESSNESS RESPONSE 24-HOUR OASIS ACCESS WHEREAS nearly one-in-three people experiencing homelessness in Austin-Travis County are chronically homeless; and WHEREAS the City has identified alleviating homelessness as a key priority; and WHEREAS the City of Austin adopted the State Homelessness Response System report and modeling (the “Report”) as a guideline to inform investment in the homelessness response system; and WHEREAS the Report states that the number of people seeking homelessness services for the first time has increased dramatically; and WHEREAS that number is expected to continue to rise; and WHEREAS Austin’s Homelessness Response System (“HRS”) serves a diverse population with needs ranging from short-term assistance to permanent housing programs; and WHEREAS short-term services are crucial and effective for meeting the urgent needs of the unhoused; and WHEREAS the Oasis is a safe, welcoming outdoor space on the Austin Resource Center for the Homeless (“ARCH”) campus providing a rare place downtown for unhoused individuals to simply be off the streets, away from businesses, and outside without disruption; and WHEREAS the Oasis provides a dignified place for people to meet their basic needs—like showering and resting—away from storefronts, parks, or sidewalks—helping to reduce the visible effects of unsheltered homelessness while also improving hygiene, health outcomes, and access to services; and WHEREAS by offering a consistent, supportive space, the Oasis contributes to a more orderly and compassionate downtown, while fostering long-term solutions to chronic homelessness; and WHEREAS, due to its proximity to the ARCH and other homeless services, the Oasis provides dignity, relief, and connection to the support needed for stability and well-being; and WHEREAS currently the Oasis is only open to the unhoused during the day from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM seven days a week, turning out onto the streets at night after 7:00PM those accessing the Oasis during the day; and WHEREAS the ARCH’s proximity to Austin’s entertainment district means weekend evenings see an influx of people accessing the bars and restaurants along 6th Street and Red River Street; and Draft WHEREAS with adequate funding, the Oasis could remain a 24-hour refuge for the unhoused on Friday and Saturday nights, giving them an alternative to being on the streets; and WHEREAS the cost of providing 24-hour access to the Oasis on Fridays and Saturdays with associated services would be $75,000.00 per year; and WHEREAS it is the considered opinion of the Downtown Commission that …
August 2025 Downtown Commission Daniel Kavelman, Projects and Policy Manager, Shoal Creek Conservancy A Collaborative Vision for the 3rd Street and Shoal Creek Area The Cypress & Shoal Creek Public Space Strategy was created by Shoal Creek Conservancy and Downtown Austin Alliance in 2021. It aims to make the area safer, more connected, and more inviting through better bikeways, new trail connections, and pedestrian plazas woven together with urban greenery. Through the Cypress & Shoal Public Space Strategy, it is possible to transform forgotten urban pockets into a beautiful, usable, breathable public realm. The name for the strategy is inspired by the historic name for Third Street, originally known as “Cypress Street.” Community Engagement ● Identified as a priority project in Shoal Creek Trail Plan Engagement ● 2019 Council Resolution ● 2020-2021 Development ● Two Rounds of Public Engagement ○ ○ 238 Unique Responses Round 1 245 Unique Responses Round 2 ● Advisory Council and Commissions ○ Urban Transportation ○ PAC and BAC ● Plan published in 2021 Funding ● 12.5M Dedicated to projects in the area in December 2023 ● Potential from downtown developments ● Gap in funding will become clear when project alternatives for the bridge and trestle are published for public input ● Possible sources for additional funding ○ 2026 Bond Program ○ Private donors ○ Other - Preservation Austin, Heritage Grant Program City of Austin - Seaholm Multimodal Connectivity Projects 1. Cesar Chavez Sidewalk 2. Crossing Improvements at West and Walter Seaholm 3. Power Plant Drive 4. Shoal Creek Trail Segment 5. Bridge and Trestle Improvements Power Plant Drive ● Design Options Released January 2025 ● Alternatives 1 and 4 most closely align with Market Plaza Concept ● Public Input under review ● Potential additional improvements ○ Place-making ○ Metrobike Station Bridge and Trestle ● HDR brought on as engineering contractor ● Alternatives will be brought to public by Transportation and Public Works ○ Will have opportunities for public input ● All options include the Shoal Creek Trail underpass Thank you! daniel@shoalcreekconservancy.org ShoalCreekConservancy.org/cypress-shoal-creek
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Downtown Commission Recommendation Number: 20250820-005: HOMELESSNESS RESPONSE 24-HOUR OASIS ACCESS WHEREAS nearly one-in-three people experiencing homelessness in Austin-Travis County are chronically homeless; and WHEREAS the City has identified alleviating homelessness as a key priority; and WHEREAS the City of Austin adopted the State Homelessness Response System report and modeling (the “Report”) as a guideline to inform investment in the homelessness response system; and WHEREAS the Report states that the number of people seeking homelessness services for the first time has increased dramatically; and WHEREAS that number is expected to continue to rise; and WHEREAS Austin’s Homelessness Response System (“HRS”) serves a diverse population with needs ranging from short-term assistance to permanent housing programs; and WHEREAS short-term services are crucial and effective for meeting the urgent needs of the unhoused; and WHEREAS the Oasis is a safe, welcoming outdoor space on the Austin Resource Center for the Homeless (“ARCH”) campus providing a rare place downtown for unhoused individuals to simply be off the streets, away from businesses, and outside without disruption; and WHEREAS the Oasis provides a dignified place for people to meet their basic needs—like showering and resting—away from storefronts, parks, or sidewalks—helping to reduce the visible effects of unsheltered homelessness while also improving hygiene, health outcomes, and access to services; and WHEREAS by offering a consistent, supportive space, the Oasis contributes to a more orderly and compassionate downtown, while fostering long-term solutions to chronic homelessness; and WHEREAS, due to its proximity to the ARCH and other homeless services, the Oasis provides dignity, relief, and connection to the support needed for stability and well-being; and WHEREAS currently the Oasis is only open to the unhoused during the day from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM seven days a week, turning out onto the streets at night after 7:00PM those accessing the Oasis during the day; and WHEREAS with adequate funding, the Oasis could remain a 24-hour refuge for the unhoused giving them an alternative to being on the streets; and WHEREAS the ARCH’s proximity to Austin’s entertainment district means weekend evenings see an influx of people accessing the bars and restaurants along 6th Street and Red River Street; and WHEREAS the cost of providing 24-hour access to the Oasis on Fridays and Saturdays with associated services would be $75,000.00 per year; and WHEREAS it is the considered opinion of the Downtown Commission that the benefit of providing 24-hour Oasis …
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
Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, July 16, 2025 Downtown Commission Regular Called Meeting Minutes Wednesday July 16, 2025 The Downtown Commission convened in a regular called meeting on Wednesday July 16, 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 Pat Buchta David Carroll Nathan McDaniel Charles Peveto COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY: Jennifer Franklin Nkiru Gelles Nancy Pollak Nelly Paulina Ramírez Sania Shifferd 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 May 21, 2025. The minutes from the meeting of May 21, 2025, were approved on Vice Chair Levinson’s motion, Commissioner Peveto’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner Shifferd was off the dais. Commissioner Pollak abstained. Commissioners Coufal and Wiley were absent. 1 Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, July 16, 2025 STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing by Shanisha Johnson, Planner Principal, District Planning, Planning Department regarding the Downtown Austin Plan Update. The presentation was made by Shanisha Johnson, Planner Principal, District Planning, Planning Department. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Update regarding the Design Commission’s recent work as it relates to the Downtown Commission. Commissioner Gelles provided an update. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve the Downtown Commission 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review. The motion to submit the Downtown Commission 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review without the commission’s approval was approved on Vice Chair Levinson’s motion, Commissioner Peveto’s second, on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Coufal and Wiley were absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Shoal Creek Conservancy Austin Texas Musicians ADJOURNMENT A motion to adjourn the meeting at 6:18 p.m. was approved on Vice Chair Levinson’s motion, Commissioner Peveto’s second an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Coufal and Wiley were absent. The minutes were approved at the August 20, 2025, meeting on Vice Chair Levinson’s motion, Commissioner Peveto’s second on a 10-0 vote. 2
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 …
