B3: D-The Trail Foundation Letter — original pdf

Backup

March 9, 2021 Kimberly McNeeley Director, Austin Parks and Recreation Department City of Austin Dear Ms. McNeeley, Recognizing the Trail Foundation as a steward of the trail, PARD has asked for comment on the in-progress Dougherty Arts Center Redevelopment Project with specific emphasis on Option 1B and its relationship to, and potential effect on the trail. TTF has attended several public meetings and a presentation from PARD, and understand that Option 1B is PARD’s preferred scenario for reasons that include preservation of existing trees, parking garage access, minimizing utility conflicts and preservation of the historic PARD headquarters building. The Trail Foundation has reviewed this option and provides the following comments: • TTF is excited to have the redevelopment of the Dougherty adjacent to the Trail and sees it as a benefit to patrons of the Arts Center and Trail users. • TTF appreciates that the proposed parking garage is buried under a green roof that should be a water quality enhancement over a more-conventional above- ground solution. • TTF sees public benefit to the trail in the design’s public restrooms, gathering spaces and enhanced park spaces. • TTF’s primary area of interest regarding this option is the placement of the studio spaces adjacent to the Trail and possible resulting congestion. With the recent release of the Butler Trail Safety & Mobility Study, recommendations were made for enhancements on this portion of the Trail. We will work with PARD to implement those into the plan. • In a related comment, TTF notes that the current upper Trail (shown just above the north facades of the proposed building) is also a maintenance corridor. TTF suggests that an alternative maintenance access path with sufficient width and turning radii should be considered. The Trail Foundation was created in 2003 to protect, enhance and connect the Butler Trail for all Austinites and visitors. The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail has served as a natural community sanctuary and pathway in the heart of Austin since the 1970s. Since its formation as a 501 (c)(3), it has fulfilled its mission through careful improvements to the Trail’s infrastructure and environment, while honoring the original vision of the Trail’s founders. Sincerely, Heidi Anderson, CEO