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 …
Topics Studied in the Draft Environmental Impact Statement The Draft Environmental Impact Statement (or DEIS) provides a comprehensive analysis of Austin Light Rail in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act and other applicable statutes. This handout contains summary information for key areas of interest that were identified during previous community input. Scan to access the full DEIS at atptx.org Wildlife and Water Resources What are the potential impacts on water and local wildlife? STUDY OUTCOMES KEY ATP PROPOSED MITIGATION MEASURES y Current drainage patterns will y Less than 2% overall change to y Manage lighting to avoid or minimize be maintained and will bridge impervious coverage because impacts on bats and birds during or culvert over water features the Project is largely within construction and operations. to limit disturbance. existing right-of-way. y Ensure compliance with Clean Water y No threatened or endangered y Lighting during construction Act by continuing coordination with the species or habitat will be and operations could affect the Army Corps of Engineers. impacted by the Project. bat colony and the new light rail bridge across Lady Bird Lake is in the bat flight path. y Continuing bridge design will seek to reduce impacts to water quality, plants and animals. Air Quality How would the construction and operation of light rail affect air quality? STUDY OUTCOMES KEY ATP PROPOSED MITIGATION MEASURES ATP will require contractors to implement best management practices to minimize dust and emissions that might be caused by construction. During construction: y Increase in dust from construction activities. y Increase in emissions from machinery used during construction. y Temporary emissions from cars due to traffic conditions. Reduced Vehicle Miles Traveled Annually, over 20 million fewer vehicle miles will be traveled, as more people transition to the newly available transit options. No Air Emissions During Operation Light rail vehicles are electric. Austin Prioritizes Clean Air The Austin area complies with all federal air quality standards designed to protect public health. 1 Trees What will happen to trees along the light rail? STUDY OUTCOMES KEY ATP PROPOSED MITIGATION MEASURES y A tree task force y Three-tiered strategy conducted an will be applied to inventory of trees trees within the limits to determine of construction, which y Removed trees y Continuing objective is to avoid tree removals or impacts Three Tiered Strategy for Trees: the potential for includes: preservation in the Project area. 245 Protected Trees 211 …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION URBAN TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION Recommendation Number 20250304: Austin Core Transportation Plan WHEREAS, the Austin Core Transportation Plan seeks to create a cohesive and adaptable transportation framework that addresses the unique mobility challenges of downtown Austin while building on previous downtown planning efforts and integrating upcoming major infrastructure projects like I-35 Capital Express Central and Project Connect; and WHEREAS, the Downtown street network is 1% of Austin’s overall network but accounts for 12% of all pedestrian crashes and 17% of intersection-related pedestrian crashes; and WHEREAS, the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan sets a goal of 50% non-single occupancy vehicle mode share by 2039; and WHEREAS, two-way streets are safer and increase economic activity where conversions are implemented; and WHEREAS, street trees and additional shade downtown make walking more feasible and can even reduce vehicle speeds; and WHEREAS, the East side of downtown is not currently slated to have a new on-street, high- quality North-South bicycle facility in the current ACT plan; and WHEREAS, the Downtown Austin Alliance Downtown Parking Study was created to comprehensively and holistically find parking management solutions to better serve the residents, workers, and visitors of downtown Austin; and WHEREAS, the Urban Land Institute convened a Technical Assistance Panel focused on reducing the growth of parking downtown, improving management of current parking supply, improving the human experience downtown, and improving other transportation modes; and WHEREAS, City Council Resolution No. 20240201-054 and corresponding ordinances seek to reduce the overall number of new parking spaces built within downtown Austin and create a more pedestrian-oriented built environment; and WHEREAS, the future Austin Light Rail and expanded MetroRapid services are projected to carry tens of thousands additional riders into downtown; and WHEREAS, there are limited resources devoted to transportation infrastructure improvements across the City, with competing priorities, including installing transportation facilities outside of downtown where no current facilities exist; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED the UTC recommends that the City Council adopt the Austin Core Transportation plan; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Urban Transportation Commission recommends the Austin Core Transportation Plan prioritizes the needs of pedestrians, cyclists, and non-car modes of transportation throughout the downtown area over car volume throughput; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the UTC recommends the ACT plan continue the protected bike lane on Red River Street from 7th Street to 12th Street, as contemplated by the 2023 Bicycle Plan and the active project listed …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Urban Transportation Commission Recommendation No. 20250304-006: Austin Light Rail Draft Environmental Impact Statement WHEREAS, the Project Connect Contract with the Voters defines Project Connect as “a high capacity transit system, to address the City's transit needs for safer, faster, and more reliable transportation that will improve access to essential services, such as education, health care, grocery stores, childcare, and jobs, especially in historically underserved and underrepresented communities;” WHEREAS, the ballot language for Proposition A of the November 3rd, 2020 election noted that Project Connect would include “associated road, sidewalk, bike, and street lighting improvements;” WHEREAS, the Austin Transit Partnership (ATP) oversees the design, construction, and completion of the Project Connect Light Rail Implementation Plan; WHEREAS, on May 2nd, 2023 the City of Austin Urban Transportation Commission (UTC) recommended that the City of Austin and ATP engage “in a scoping project for multimodal investments to ensure light rail integrates with and expands Austin's existing and future pedestrian, bicycle, and transit connections;” WHEREAS, Project Connect is essential to accomplishing the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan’s 50/50 mode split goal by 2039; and WHEREAS, on January 10th, 2025 ATP released the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Austin Light Rail Phase 1 Project; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the UTC recommends ATP move forward with all light rail design elements and options suggested in the Draft EIS; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the UTC recommends that, in keeping with the Contract with the Voters, ATP should prioritize right-of-way for pedestrians, bicyclists, micro-mobility users, and other transit options in future design iterations over preserving access for private auto traffic. Motioned by: Commissioner Schumacher Seconded by: Commissioner Somers Date of Approval: 3/4/2025 Record of the vote: 7-0 Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign)
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE DOWNTOWN COMMISSION Wednesday February 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 Christi Vitela at Christi.Vitela@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-2792. telephone. To CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: August Harris, Chair Ed Ishmael, Vice Chair Peter Breton David Carroll Liz Coufal Mike Lavigne Kimberly Levinson Charles Peveto Sania Shifferd CALL TO ORDER Jennifer Franklin Nkiru Gelles Carl Larosche 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. 1. Approve the minutes of the Downtown Commission regular called meeting on January APPROVAL OF MINUTES 15, 2025. 2. Staff briefing regarding the Seaholm area multi-modal improvements by Alex Payson, Capital Improvement Program Manager, Austin Transportation and Public Works. 3. Update on the progress of the Austin Light Rail. Presentation by Austin Transit 4. Discussion of the proposed reorganization of certain Boards and Commissions as outlined in Austin City Council Resolution 20241212-133. 5. Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding High Level Goals for the Downtown STAFF BRIEFINGS DISCUSSION ITEMS Partnership staff. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEM Austin Plan Update. 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, January 15, 2025 DOWNTOWN COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, January 15, 2025 The Downtown Commission convened the regular meeting on Wednesday, January 15, 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 Nelly Paulina Ramírez Sania Shifferd COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY Liz Coufal Anne-Charlotte Patterson CALL TO ORDER Chair Harris called the meeting of the Downtown Commission to order at 5:33 pm. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Philip Whiley – Downtown residential density Item 3 was taken up first without objection. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation regarding the East 6th Street Pilot Closure and an update on street closure security measures and pedestrian safety equipment, Christopher Juusola, Lieutenant, Austin Police Department. Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes Wednesday, January 15, 2025 The presentation was made by Christopher Juusola, Lieutenant, Austin Police Department, Lisa Davis, Chief of Police, Austin Police Department, and Michael Bochsler, Meridian Rapid Defense Group. 2. Presentation on the Waterloo Greenway Conservancy by Melissa Ayala, Vice President of Government Relations, Waterloo Greenway Conservancy. The presentation was made by Melissa Ayala, Vice President of Government Relations, Waterloo Greenway Conservancy and John Rigdon, Chief Planning & Design Officer, Waterloo Greenway Conservancy. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve a Recommendation to Council to immediately appropriate funds for the purchase of safety barricades, associated equipment and training and prioritize future funding for additional barricades if needed. The motion to postpone indefinitely was approved on Vice Chair Ishmael’s motion, Commissioner Levinson’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Lavigne was absent. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Downtown Commission regular called meeting on December 18, 2024. The minutes from the meeting on December 18, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Levinson’s motion, Vice Chair Ishmael’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Lavigne was absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Election of chair ADJOURNMENT Chair Harris adjourned the meeting at 6:44 pm without any objection.
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Downtown Commission Recommendation Number_________________________: High Level Goals For DAP Update Recommendation WHEREAS the Austin Council on ___________, 2024, passed Resolution 20240814-028 calling for an update to the Downtown Austin Plan (DAP); WHEREAS the Downtown Commission (DTC) of the City of Austin is charged with stewarding the DAP; and WHEREAS the DTC Commissioners have received presentations concerning the central city plans of other cities similar to Austin; and WHEREAS the DTC has received a presentation from the Planning Department concerning the City’s preliminary plans for evaluating the needs of downtown both current and anticipated, drafting an updated DAP to meet those needs, and implementing the DAP once adopted; and WHEREAS the DTC DAP Working Group has communicated with other downtown stakeholders; and WHEREAS the DTC desires that the DAP update be successful, comprehensive and accomplished in a timely manner; and WHEREAS the Planning Department has presented to the City Council outlining the estimated cost, scope, and preliminary timeline for the DAP Update; and WHEREAS Downtown Austin has changed significantly since the completion of the original DAP; and WHEREAS the DTC has identified certain high-level goals for the DAP Update. NOW THEREFORE we, the commissioners of the Austin Downtown Commission, do hereby strongly recommend and urge that the early planning for and initial steps in creating the DAP Update adopt and keep in mind the following goals: For maximum efficacy, therefore, the new DAP should comprise a comprehensive 1. reconsideration of downtown rather than mere updates to the existing plan. Draft The DAP should support the ongoing evolution of a safe, vibrant, and beautiful downtown 2. which includes increased residential population, a diversity of uses at a range of price points, including active cultural and civic uses, and which is responsive to emerging trends. Keeping in mind that municipal plans frequently exist solely as aspirations and are not 3. implemented in any effective manner or at all, and in order to ensure effective use of city resources, the DAP should specifically identify a funding mechanism for implementation and include the creation of a single city entity with sufficient authority to ensure cohesive, effective implementation of the DAP and keep the DTC informed of its progress in developing the DAP Update. The City of Austin should contract with a high-quality consultant to carry out the planning 4. and give the consultant the freedom to approach the plan and engagement strategy with …
Seaholm Multimodal Connectivity Update February 19, 2025 1 Legend 1. Cesar Chavez Street sidewalk and trail improvements (Sandra Murida Way - San Antonio Street) 2. Trail crossings at West Avenue and Walter Seaholm Drive 3. Third Street and Power Plant Drive (West Avenue – Walter Seaholm Drive) Improved North- South Shoal Creek Trail Alignment at Third Street Improvements to the East-West Crossing of Shoal Creek at Third Street 4. 5. 2/19/2025 2 Power Plan Drive and Third Street Connectivity • Four alternative designs are being considered to improve multimodal connectivity in this area • Broad community engagement has opened to receive feedback. • Learn more at: www.publicinput.com/seaholmmobility 3 Alternative 1: Full Plaza Alternative 1 Concept - Close Power Plant Drive - Improve ramps and install concrete and sod to create a plaza for multimodal movement - Parking on 3rd St. retained 4 Alternative 2: Plaza with Back-In Angle Parking Alternative 2 Concept - Close Power Plant Drive - Improve ramps and install concrete and sod to create a plaza for multimodal movement - Back-In angle parking installed on S. curb of 3rd St. 5 Alternative 3: Trail Connection without Plaza Alternative 3 Concept - Expanded median with urban trail dividing Power Plant Dr. and 3rd St. - Parking retained on 3rd St. 6 Alternative 4: Full Plaza with Delivery Access Alternative 4 Concept - Close Power Plant Drive - Improve ramps and install concrete and sod to create a plaza for multimodal movement - Added delivery zone and ADA parking space 7 Cesar Chavez Street Shared-Use Path Construction began on the improvements in Fall 2024 and is expected to be complete in Spring 2025. 8 Improved Crossing Safety at Cesar Chavez and West/Walter Seaholm • Dynamic signs are being made and should be delivered for installation in the coming weeks. • Foundations are constructed at Walter Seaholm Drive and are currently being constructed at West Avenue 9 Next Steps • Cesar Chavez Blank Out Signs • Installation of signs • Cesar Chavez Trail Connection • Continued construction. Completion late Spring. • 3rd/West Improvements • Community engagement • Design finalization and construction • Cesar Chavez Blank Out Signs • Installation of signs • Cesar Chavez Trail Connection • Continued construction. Completion late Spring. • 3rd/West Improvements • Community engagement • Take the survey until 3/23/25 • Stop by our pop-up event 3/1/25 10am – 12pm at 3rd and West • Design …
Provide Feedback and Stay Involved Meeting Dates and Locations JAN 16 JAN 25 Lively Middle School Montopolis Rec Center 201 E Mary St. 1200 Montopolis Dr. JAN 22 Baker Center 3908 Avenue B JAN 28 UT Quadrangle Room 2308 Whitis Ave. Proposed Light Rail Timeline A public review and comment period for the DEIS will be conducted from January 10 through March 11, 2025. Comments received during this period will be addressed in the Final Environmental Impact Statement. View the online public meeting information. Austin Light Rail PROGRESS UPDATE January 2025 Bridge Over Lady Bird Lake View from inside the train, crossing Lady Bird Lake. Artist conceptual visualization Austin Light Rail Phase 1 is underway. This momentous transportation investment will offer an all-new transit experience, running reliably every 5 to 10 minutes to connect people to major job centers, education hubs, and iconic Austin destinations. Key progress highlights Continuing the design Recommendations to: • Add a new downtown station near Wooldridge Square. • Extend the bridge over Lady Bird Lake and elevate the Waterfront Station. • Refine station locations on East Riverside. • Advance a Greenway concept along East Riverside, featuring a continuous bike/pedestrian corridor and creating tree canopy and shade. Hitting major milestones in the federal funding process Including: Release of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS). The DEIS is a critical step towards federal grant funding. Developing the contracting and delivery approach Including: Onboarding the Delivery Partner. Artist conceptual visualization Artist conceptual visualization East Riverside A new shaded walk and bike path along the line on East Riverside, designed to improve walkability. Benefits of Light Rail New Options to Get Places Easy, Reliable & Frequent Reduced Travel Times The line will integrate with cars, Light rail will have its own dedicated The line will allow riders to zip buses, trains and other modes — railway, intuitive directions, and run through the heart of Austin without giving people more choices when every 5-10 minutes — making it having to sit in traffic — significantly navigating between the core and the highly dependable and easy to use. reducing travel times to key larger metro area. Nature-forward Design An Engine for Jobs destinations. Keeps Austin Livable Shade trees, Texas plants, and new Light rail will create 10,000 jobs The line will help keep our city walk and bike paths will be integrated as a key part of city mobility accessible for …
Austin Light Rail Progress Update February 19, 2025 Austin Light Rail Benefits of Light RailBenefits of Light Rail Light Rail in Other Cities Paris, France Seattle, Washington Phoenix, Arizona Minneapolis, Minnesota Austin Light Rail Austin Light Rail Phase 1 Light rail is an expandable electric train system designed for metropolitan areas, serving as an integral part of the transit network by connecting people to essential destinations where they live, work and play. Facts 15 STATIONS connecting points north, south and east of downtown Austin 9.8 MILES of light rail transit ~28,000 DAILY TRIPS on an average weekday Access to: 136K current jobs 200K+ future jobs Artist conceptual visualization Aerial view near Pleasant Valley station, showing a new shaded walk and bike path and how the line extends from the city center to East Riverside. EAST RIVERSIDE A new shaded walk and bike path along the line on East Riverside, designed to improve walkability. Artist conceptual visualization Artist conceptual visualization LIGHT RAIL ON EAST RIVERSIDE Aerial view near Pleasant Valley station, showing a new shaded walk and bike path and how the line extends from the city center to East Riverside. Artist conceptual visualization THE DRAG The station at UT on a typical game day with a redesigned and pedestrian-centric Guadalupe Street. Artist conceptual visualization OLTORF AT H-E-B The station at Congress and Oltorf near H-E-B, showing a new public plaza with shade trees and native plants. Artist conceptual visualization Austin Light Rail Proposed Light Rail Timeline Environmental Analysis Topics What’s Next All comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement that are received by March 11, 2025, will be responded to in the Final Environmental Impact Statement. How can you comment? Call Us | (512) 389-7590 Email Us | input@atptx.org Visit Our Virtual Open House Send Mail | 203 Colorado St., Austin, TX 78701 austinlightrail.org/austinlightrailinput Ask for a presentation at input@atptx.org Thank You.
Topics Studied in the Draft Environmental Impact Statement The Draft Environmental Impact Statement (or DEIS) provides a comprehensive analysis of Austin Light Rail in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act and other applicable statutes. This handout contains summary information for key areas of interest that were identified during previous community input. Scan to access the full DEIS at atptx.org Wildlife and Water Resources What are the potential impacts on water and local wildlife? STUDY OUTCOMES KEY ATP PROPOSED MITIGATION MEASURES y Current drainage patterns will y Less than 2% overall change to y Manage lighting to avoid or minimize be maintained and will bridge impervious coverage because impacts on bats and birds during or culvert over water features the Project is largely within construction and operations. to limit disturbance. existing right-of-way. y Ensure compliance with Clean Water y No threatened or endangered y Lighting during construction Act by continuing coordination with the species or habitat will be and operations could affect the Army Corps of Engineers. impacted by the Project. bat colony and the new light rail bridge across Lady Bird Lake is in the bat flight path. y Continuing bridge design will seek to reduce impacts to water quality, plants and animals. Air Quality How would the construction and operation of light rail affect air quality? STUDY OUTCOMES KEY ATP PROPOSED MITIGATION MEASURES ATP will require contractors to implement best management practices to minimize dust and emissions that might be caused by construction. During construction: y Increase in dust from construction activities. y Increase in emissions from machinery used during construction. y Temporary emissions from cars due to traffic conditions. Reduced Vehicle Miles Traveled Annually, over 20 million fewer vehicle miles will be traveled, as more people transition to the newly available transit options. No Air Emissions During Operation Light rail vehicles are electric. Austin Prioritizes Clean Air The Austin area complies with all federal air quality standards designed to protect public health. 1 Trees What will happen to trees along the light rail? STUDY OUTCOMES KEY ATP PROPOSED MITIGATION MEASURES y A tree task force y Three-tiered strategy conducted an will be applied to inventory of trees trees within the limits to determine of construction, which y Removed trees y Continuing objective is to avoid tree removals or impacts Three Tiered Strategy for Trees: the potential for includes: preservation in the Project area. 245 Protected Trees 211 …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Downtown Commission Recommendation Number 20250219-005: High Level Goals For DAP Update Recommendation WHEREAS the Austin Council on August 14, 2024, passed Resolution 20240814-028 calling for an update to the Downtown Austin Plan (DAP); WHEREAS the Downtown Commission (DTC) of the City of Austin is charged with stewarding the DAP; and WHEREAS the DTC Commissioners have received presentations concerning the central city plans of other cities similar to Austin; and WHEREAS the DTC has received a presentation from the Planning Department concerning the City’s preliminary plans for evaluating the needs of downtown both current and anticipated, drafting an updated DAP to meet those needs, and implementing the DAP once adopted; and WHEREAS the DTC DAP Working Group has communicated with other downtown stakeholders; and WHEREAS the DTC desires that the DAP update be successful, comprehensive and accomplished in a timely manner; and WHEREAS the Planning Department has presented a memo to the City Council outlining the estimated cost, scope, and preliminary timeline for the DAP Update; and WHEREAS Downtown Austin has changed significantly since the completion of the original DAP; and WHEREAS the DTC has identified certain high-level goals for the DAP Update. NOW THEREFORE we, the commissioners of the Austin Downtown Commission, do hereby strongly recommend and urge that the early planning for and initial steps in creating the DAP Update adopt and keep in mind the following goals: For maximum efficacy, therefore, the new DAP should comprise a comprehensive 1. reconsideration of downtown rather than mere updates to the existing plan. The DAP should support the ongoing evolution of a safe, vibrant, and beautiful downtown 2. which includes increased residential population, a diversity of uses at a range of price points, including active cultural and civic uses, and which is responsive to emerging trends. Keeping in mind that municipal plans frequently exist solely as aspirations and are not 3. implemented in any effective manner or at all, and in order to ensure effective use of city resources, the DAP should specifically identify a funding mechanism for implementation and include the creation of a single city entity with sufficient authority to ensure cohesive, effective implementation of the DAP and keep the DTC informed of its progress in developing the DAP Update. The City of Austin should contract with a high-quality consultant to carry out the planning 4. and give the consultant the freedom to approach the plan and …
REGULAR CALLED MEETING OF THE DOWNTOWN COMMISSION Wednesday January 15, 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: August Harris, Chair Ed Ishmael, Vice Chair Peter Breton David Carroll Liz Coufal Mike Lavigne Kimberly Levinson Charles Peveto Sania Shifferd CALL TO ORDER Jennifer Franklin Carl Larosche 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 December 18, 2024. 1. Approve the minutes of the Downtown Commission regular called meeting on DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation on the Waterloo Greenway Conservancy by Melissa Ayala, Vice President of Government Relations, Waterloo Greenway Conservancy. 3. Presentation regarding the East 6th Street Pilot Closure and an update on street closure security measures and pedestrian safety equipment, Christopher Juusola, Lieutenant, Austin Police Department. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve a Recommendation to Council to immediately appropriate funds for the purchase of safety barricades, associated equipment and training and prioritize future funding for additional barricades if needed. 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, December 18, 2024 DOWNTOWN COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, December 18, 2024 The Downtown Commission convened the regular meeting on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at City Hall, 301W 2nd St, in a hybrid meeting format. COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE August Harris, Chair Ed Ishmael, Vice-Chair Liz Coufal Charles Peveto Kimberly Levinson Sania Shifferd COMMISSIONERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY Peter Breton Jennifer Franklin Amy Mok Nelly Paulina Ramírez Spencer Schumacher CALL TO ORDER Chair Harris called the meeting of the Downtown Commission to order at 5:34 pm. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES November 20, 2024. 1. Approve the minutes of the Downtown Commission regular called meeting on The minutes from the meeting on November 20, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Levinson’s motion, Vice Chair Ishmael’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner Shifferd was off the dais. Commissioners Carroll and Lavigne were absent. Wednesday, December 18, 2024 Downtown Commission Meeting Minutes DISCUSSION ITEM DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEM 2. Presentation and discussion regarding the Downtown Austin Plan. Presentation by Chad Sharrard, Senior Planner, Planning Department. The presentation was made by Chad Sharrard, Senior Planner, Planning Department. 3. Approve additional membership to the Downtown Austin Plan Working Group. The motion to approve adding Commissioner Coufal to the Downtown Austin Plan Working Group was approved on Vice Chair Ishmael’s motion, Commissioner Shifferd’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner Levinson was off the dais. Commissioners Carroll and Lavigne were absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Waterloo Greenway Multi modal improvements – Seaholm Discussion on possible changes to Downtown Commission and South Central Waterfront Advisory Board. ADJOURNMENT Chair Harris adjourned the meeting at 6:18 pm without any objection.
Palm Park COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT OVERVIEW Context: Waterloo Greenway Engagement Report PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT REPORT Available Online waterloogreenway.org/future Engagement Phases 1 2 3 GROUNDING June 2023–August Complete ENVISIONING September–November Complete CO-CREATING December–April 2024 Complete Project Launches Planning & Outreach Begins Outreach Continues Small Group Conversations (5) Review & Analyze Data Design Scenarios Gallery Walk Open Houses (2) Pop-Up Activity: Creek Show Virtual Survey Planning Phase III Phase III Outreach Public Meeting (1) Project Report Engagement Timeline JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2024 Project Launch Phase I Outreach Begins Virtual Survey Launches Small Group Conversations (Mtg #2) Creek Show Pop-Up Phase III Planning Gallery Walk Open Houses (Mtg #1) Public Meeting (Mtg #3) Summary Report Phase II Outreach Begins Engagement Strategies Tabling Events Flyering Block Walking Email Campaigns Partner Promotion Community Leader Outreach Marketing (social media, e-newsletters, press) Engagement - Overview SMALL GROUP CONVOS SURVEYS DESIGN CONVOS 93 93 30 9 Spanish Speakers + 84 English Speakers 54 Virtual + 39 Paper Surveys Completed 109 Comments 11 Palm School Alum 9 Palm School Alum 2 Palm School Alum TABLING POP-UP EVENT TOTAL ENGAGEMENT 939 1,055 2,024 Phase II Data - Local Representation SMALL GROUP CONVOS SURVEYS Primary Zipcodes: 78702 (Central East Austin–City Council District #3) 78747 (South East Austin–City Council District #2) 78744 (South East Austin–City Council District #2) Primary Zipcodes: 78702 (Central East Austin–City Council District #3) 78747 (South East Austin–City Council District #2) 78701 (Central South Austin–City Council District #3) Phase II Data - Key Themes 632 Total Comments Collected Small Group Conversations How the redesign of Palm Park will transform surrounding areas? Cultural anchor to surroundings Place of gathering and play in East Austin Improve connectivity Honoring place/history of what once was Accessibility for East Austin residents Noise reduction from I-35 Business, neighborhood & Palm School connection Feel of what Palm Park should provide? Welcoming to all Peaceful & tranquil Oasis Family friendly Safe Natural Historic Informative/Educational space Phase II Data - Key Themes 632 Total Comments Collected Small Group Conversations How to reflect history & culture in Palm Park? Murals/monuments/artwork History of East Austin families Honor the pool history Stories from past, present & future Celebrate Mexican American heritage Educational experiences for families Recognition of Palm School Alumni How to use the space in Palm Park? Bridge to Downtown Community gatherings Water Feature Family-friendly space Walking, games, meditation, gardens Rest space from urban areas Connection of East …
