SPECIAL CALLED MEETING of the PLANNING COMMISSION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2024, 5:00 PM AUSTIN CITY HALL, BOARD AND COMMISSION, ROOM 1101 301 WEST 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Planning 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. Registration no later than 2 PM the day of the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. For more information on public comment, please see the agenda section “Speaker Registration”. Please contact Ella Garcia, Staff Liaison, for questions regarding speaker registration at LandUseLiaison@austintexas.gov or by phone at 512-978-0821. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Claire Hempe1, Chair (District 8) Awais Azhar, Vice Chair (Mayor’s Representative) Greg Anderson, Secretary (District 4) Alice Woods, Parliamentarian (District 2) Patrick Howard (District 1) Nadia Barrera-Ramirez (District 3) Felicity Maxwell (District 5) EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS: Casey Haney (District 6) Ryan Johnson (District 7) Danielle Skidmore (District 9) Grayson Cox (District 10) Alberta Phillips (Mayor’s Representative) Adam Haynes (Mayor’s Representative) Jessica Cohen, Chair of Board of Adjustment Candace Hunter, AISD Board of Trustees TC Broadnax, City Manager Richard Mendoza – Director of Transportation and Public Works EXECUTIVE SESSION (No public discussion) The Planning Commission will announce it will go into Executive Session, if necessary, according to Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code, to receive advice from Legal Counsel on matters Executive Liaison: Joi Harden, 512-974-1617 Staff Liaison: Ella Garcia, 512-978-0821 specifically listed on the agenda. The Commission may not conduct a closed meeting without the approval of the city attorney. Private Consultation with Attorney – Section 551.071. CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first four 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. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 1. Discussion and action to recommend that Council amend the Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan to add the Equity-Based Preservation Plan, which is a historic preservation plan, to the City’s comprehensive plan. Presentation by Cara Bertron, 512- 974-1446, cara.bertron@austintexas.gov, Planning Department. 2. Discussion and action recommending adoption of the Austin Core Transportation Plan (ACT Plan) as an attachment to the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan (ASMP). Presentation by Cole Kitten, 512-974-6442, cole.kitten@austintexas.gov, Transportation and Public Works Department. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. …
Equity-Based Preservation Plan Learning from Our Past to Shape a Future for Everyone 2024 Austin, Texas Preservation Plan Working Group Historic Landmark Commission Vision for Historic Preservation Historic preservation in Austin actively engages communities in protecting and sharing important places and stories. Preservation uses the past to create a shared sense of belonging and to shape an equitable, inclusive, sustainable, and economically vital future for all. These images represent community heritage to Austinites: Lunar New Year celebrations, Mayfield Park, the landmarked Mary Baylor House in Clarksville, a Mexican American celebration at the Capitol, Barton Hills homes, Huston-Tillotson University. Preservation Plan Working Group Michelle Benavides Linda Y. Jackson Leslie Ornelas 1 Noel Bridges 1 Julia Brookins* Meghan King* Emily Payne Jolene Kiolbassa 1 Rocio Peña-Martinez* Brita Wallace* 1 Amalia Carmona 2 Kevin Koch Misael Ramos* 1 Bob Ward 1 Ursula A. Carter Kelechi Madubuko 1 Mary Reed* 1 Caroline Wright 1 Maria Solis* 1 Erin Waelder 1 Mary Jo Galindo* 1 Brenda Malik Jerry Garcia 1 Hanna Huang* 1 Alyson McGee 1 Debra Murphy 2 Lori Renteria 1 Gilbert Rivera 1 JuanRaymon Rubio 2 * Drafting Committee member 1 Phase 1 member only 2 Phase 2 member only The Preservation Plan Working Group included 26 community members who developed this draft plan in phase 1. Land Acknowledgment Land acknowledgments are a practice to recognize Indigenous Peoples as original stewards of the land who still have an enduring relationship with their traditional territories. We include this acknowledgment in the Equity-Based Preservation Plan as an expression of gratitude and appreciation to those whose territory we reside on and a way of honoring the Indigenous Peoples who have lived and worked on the land known as Austin, Texas. Land acknowledgments do not exist in the past tense or historical context. Colonialism is a current and ongoing process, and we need to be mindful that we are participating in it by living on colonized land. To ensure meaningful recognition and inclusion of Indigenous Peoples, more work needs to happen as part of the implementation of this plan. We acknowledge, with respect, that the land known as Texas has been home to many groups for more than 16,000 years. These include the Tonkawa, the Mescalero Apache, the Lipan Apache, the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo (Tigua people), the Texas Band of Yaqui Indians, the Coahuiltecan, the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas, the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas, the …
M E M O R A N D U M TO: Planning Commission Chair and Commissioners FROM: Cara Bertron, Planning Department DATE: October 17, 2024 Equity-Based Preservation Plan adoption SUBJECT: This memo provides a brief synopsis of the Equity-Based Preservation Plan planning process. In 2021, the Historic Landmark Commission initiated the development of a new historic preservation plan to replace Austin’s existing preservation plan from 1981. The Commission created a community working group, the Preservation Plan Working Group, to develop the plan. In this phase, the Preservation Plan Working Group comprised 26 community members who lived in 19 ZIP codes across the city and reflected Austin’s racial and ethnic diversity. Working Group members brought a range of experiences, perspectives, and expertise to the planning process. They received input and feedback from 275 community members through: • A community heritage survey • Focus groups of representatives from cultural and heritage organizations, legacy businesses, and neighborhood organizations • A Technical Advisory Group of City staff from 12 departments • A Technical Assistance Panel facilitated by the Urban Land Institute The Working Group met monthly from June 2021 to June 2022, with subcommittee meetings between many of the full-group meetings. It presented the Historic Landmark Commission with the draft Equity-Based Preservation Plan on September 7, 2022. From February through May 2024, staff coordinated a robust, inclusive community engagement process. Community members were engaged through a number of methods, including: SpeakUp Austin website (www.speakupaustin.org/ATXpresplan, 34,000 views) • • Online and paper surveys in multiple languages (2,083 surveys completed) • Email newsletters, both plan-specific (1,400 subscribers) and from other City departments and organizational partners Social media from the City of Austin (organic and paid) and organizational partners Flyer distribution at locations, events, and presentations • • • 4 City-hosted outreach events held at community hubs in East, West, and South Austin (350 • Pop-up tabling at 45 community events around Austin (1,000+ people engaged) • 31 presentations to community groups and professional stakeholder organizations, including online discussions hosted by ULI Austin and USGBC-Texas • 29 small-group and 1-on-1 conversations held by community ambassadors and mini-grant partner attendees) organizations • Briefings to 17 City boards and commissions (see below) • Article in Austin Utilities Now newsletter mailed to households citywide in April 2024 • Online survey distributed to 4,400 randomly selected service area households via email by Austin • Distribution of plan information to Small Business …
PLANNING COMMISSION | OCTOBER 21, 2024 Austin History Center (C05767, PICA 24201, PICA 29995); Chen Chen Wu; City of Austin Planning Process HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION Michelle Benavides Mary Jo Galindo*1 Jolene Kiolbassa 1 Debra Murphy 2 Misael Ramos* 1 JuanRaymon Rubio 2 Bob Ward 1 Noel Bridges 1 Jerry Garcia 1 Kevin Koch Robin Orlowski 2 Mary Reed* 1 Maria Solis* 1 Caroline Wright 1 Julia Brookins* Hanna Huang* 1 Kelechi Madubuko 1 Leslie Ornelas 1 Lori Renteria 1 Erin Waelder 1 Amalia Carmona 2 Linda Y. Jackson Brenda Malik Emily Payne Gilbert Rivera 1 Brita Wallace* 1 Ursula A. Carter Meghan King* Alyson McGee 1 Rocio Peña-Martinez* *Drafting Committee member 1 Phase 1 only 2 Phase 2 only Plan Vision Historic preservation in Austin actively engages communities in protecting and sharing important places and stories. Preservation uses the past to create a shared sense of belonging and to shape an equitable, inclusive, sustainable, and economically vital future for all. Image sources: Joe’s Bakery, anonymous, Amy Moreland/ Austin’s Atlas Images: Joe’s Bakery, home in Zilker neighborhood, detail from Music Listening Map by Amy Moreland Plan Goals 107 recommendations 1. Tell Austin’s full history 9. Proactively identify important places 2. Recognize cultural heritage 10. Follow good designation practices 3. Preserve archaeological resources 11. Support stewardship of community 4. Stabilize communities assets 5. Support environmental sustainability 12. Be strategic with review 6. Make preservation more accessible 13. Protect historic resources 7. Support people doing the work 14. Implement the plan collaboratively 8. Engage new partners What We Preserve Images, clockwise from top left: Juneteenth parade, unveiling of La Loteria mural, archaeological resources Image sources: The Austin Chronicle (two images), San Antonio Office of Historic Preservation Think broadly. • Recognize Austin’s rich and complex history through active listening, inclusive research, and interpretation • Better recognize and protect legacy businesses, murals, and archaeological resources • Use preservation tools to support displacement prevention and environmental sustainability Who Preserves Invite and support. • Engage new partners and audiences • Help community members access knowledge and resources • Support people doing the work: homeowners and tenants, crafts- people, commissioners, and staff Images, clockwise from top left: Protest at City Hall to preserve Edward Rendon Park (Chicano Park), door hanger in San Antonio, “Stories within Stories” project of the Austin Asian American Film Festival Image sources: Bertha Rendon Delgado, San Antonio Office of Historic Preservation, Austin Asian American …
Austin Core Transportation (ACT) Plan Small Area Mobility Plan of the ASMP: Downtown Austin Planning Commission - October 21, 2024 Cole Kitten, TPW, Division Manager Agenda • ACT Plan Purpose and Background • Planning Process • ACT Plan Project Recommendations • Implementation Plan • Next Steps 2 ACT Plan Purpose • The ACT Plan is a Small Area Mobility Plan covering Downtown Austin and will be adopted by Council as an attachment to the ASMP. • It is an update to previous transportation focused efforts Downtown – dating back to 2000 • Why are we updating the transportation plan for Downtown? • changes in transit and bicycle planning, • changes in highway improvements serving Downtown, • changes in national best practices on urban street design, and • disruptions to traditional mobility • The ACT Plan will create a unified vision for transportation Downtown and align the many projects and initiatives under one actionable plan to help accomplish the goals in the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan. 3 Background • Great Streets Master Plan, 2001 • The goal of the Great Streets program is to pursue the vision of streets for people • Downtown Access and Mobility Plan, 2002 • The emphasis of the access and mobility study was on modeling and simulating intersection traffic operations and determining existing and future levels-of- service and operational needs • Downtown Transportation Framework, 2008 • The Downtown Transportation Framework Plan builds on the Great Streets Master Plan, further developing the system of “priority streets by mode”, and developing more detailed streetscape cross sections of all of the different street types and variations • Downtown Austin Plan, 2011 • Established the vision to develop a multimodal transportation system that improves access to and mobility within Downtown 2001 2002 2008 2011 4 Background • New policy • The Austin Strategic Mobility Plan (ASMP) aspires to achieve a 50/50 mode share where 50% of commuters use means other than driving alone to get to work in 2039 • Transit planning • The Project Connect Long Term Vision Plan established a High-Capacity Transit System and was adopted as an element of the ASMP – an initial investment was funded in 2020 • Managing demand • Transportation Demand Management programming, parking policy, and curb management are becoming critical strategies to manage congestion • New street design • The Congress Avenue Urban Design Initiative shows how to reimagine the allocation of …
Briefing on Density Bonus 90 (DB90) Eric Thomas, Division Manager 2022 City Council adopted Ordinance No. 20220609-080, creating a second tier of the VMU program, referred to as VMU2, which allowed for increased height in exchange for increased community benefits. City Council adopted Ordinance No. 20221201-055, creating an incentive program that allows residential uses in commercial zoning districts, referred to as Residential in Commercial, which allowed for the construction of residential uses in exchange for increased community benefits. Ordinance No. 20220609-080, Ordinance No. 20221201-055, and Ordinance No. 20221201-056 were invalidated. Background 2023 2024 City Council adopted Ordinance No. 20240229-073 on an 8-2 vote, which created the Density Bonus 90 (DB90) combining district and density bonus program with requirements and incentives mirroring VMU2 provisions. Prior to the adoption, the Planning Commission recommended DB90 on a vote of 8-3-1 in February. City Council adopted Ordinance No. 20240829-158 on a 9-0 vote, which amended regulations applicable to the Density Bonus 90 (DB90) combining district. Prior to the adoption, the Planning Commission recommended the DB90 amendments on a vote of 9-1 in July. 2 Requirements and Incentives Affordability – Rental: – 10% of units set-aside affordable to 50% Median Family Income (MFI); OR – 12% of units set-aside affordable to 60% MFI – Ownership: – 12% of units set-aside affordable to 80% MFI i. Requirements for ownership units may be satisfied by a fee in-lieu of on-site units Mix of Uses – Requirements for pedestrian-oriented commercial uses – Floors beyond the second must be residential Site Development Standards – Exemptions from standards include the following: – Minimum site area requirements – Maximum floor area ratio – Maximum building coverage – Minimum street side yard setback and interior yard setback – Minimum front yard setback – Article 10 Compatibility Standards Subchapter C Height – 30 ft in additional height from the base zone up to a maximum of 90 ft 3 DB90 Cases – Total 56 Cases Total 27 New Cases 24 City-Initiated Cases 5 Amended Cases City- Initiated 43% New 48% Amended 9% Case Types 4 DB90 Cases – Total 56 Cases Total 26 Cases In-Process 29 Cases Closed 1 Case Withdrawn D10 4% D1 12% D9 21% D8 2% D7 5% D5 9% D4 13% D2 7% D3 27% Cases per Council District 5 DB90 Cases – Total 56 Cases …
Austin Population Growth and Demographic Trends Planning Commission October 21, 2024 Content Austin’s Population Growth Areas of Change Austin’s Unique Diversity Austin Concurrencies Austin’s Population Growth Level Setting • • • • Austin is the 11th largest U.S. city and the principal city of the Austin metro region, the 2nd fastest-growing region in the country. Austin had been doubling in size every 20-25 years; recent growth is a fraction of historical rates. Even as it grows, Austin makes up a smaller share of the total region due to significant and rapid growth in the suburbs. • Migration, especially domestic migration, is the main driver of population growth to Austin, which places immediate pressures on infrastructure and resources, requiring a nimble response. Although a leader in job growth relative to other metros, like Austin’s population, its job growth has been slowing and jobs are more dispersed throughout the region, with smaller shares of Austinites living and working in Austin. 4 Population Change, 2010 to 2020 • Areas with greatest population growth mostly in suburban areas. • Similar growth also evident in areas within the City where dense growth was encouraged, such as downtown, the Domain, and the Mueller development. Source: U.S. Census Bureau, P.L. 94-171 Redistricting Data, 2020. 5 Housing Unit Change, 2010 to 2020 • Strong association between population and housing unit growth. • Areas of high development along the edges of the city (NW: Lakeline; NE: Tech Ridge; SE: Onion Creek & north ABIA; SW: Circle C) were also areas of greater racial/ethnic diversity. • Fast-developing areas closer to the city core (Riverside, Holly, Mueller, Downtown) were areas where White population drove growth. • The Domain & West Campus saw fast-growth and increased diversity. Source: U.S. Census Bureau, P.L. 94-171 Redistricting Data, 2020. 6 Austin is a city of dualities with concurrent growth gains and growing pains. Growth Gains Growing Pains Austin had been doubling its population every 20-25 years, recent growth is slower, and Austin makes up a smaller share of the region. Austin added an unprecedented number (90k+) of housing units between 2010 and 2020 and is on pace to surpass units added last decade. Austin population growth has yielded increased diversity with growth among all races and ethnicities. Austin is consistently among highest performers in job growth and has a young, highly educated workforce. Population growth has resulted in a farther eastward movement of population, primarily …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING of the PLANNING COMMISSION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2024, 5:00 PM AUSTIN CITY HALL, BOARD AND COMMISSION, ROOM 1101 301 WEST 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Planning 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. Registration no later than 2 PM the day of the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. For more information on public comment, please see the agenda section “Speaker Registration”. Please contact Ella Garcia, Staff Liaison, for questions regarding speaker registration at LandUseLiaison@austintexas.gov or by phone at 512-978-0821. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Claire Hempe1, Chair (District 8) Awais Azhar, Vice Chair (Mayor’s Representative) Greg Anderson, Secretary (District 4) Alice Woods, Parliamentarian (District 2) Patrick Howard (District 1) Nadia Barrera-Ramirez (District 3) Felicity Maxwell (District 5) EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS: Casey Haney (District 6) Ryan Johnson (District 7) Danielle Skidmore (District 9) Grayson Cox (District 10) Alberta Phillips (Mayor’s Representative) Adam Haynes (Mayor’s Representative) Jessica Cohen, Chair of Board of Adjustment Candace Hunter, AISD Board of Trustees TC Broadnax, City Manager Richard Mendoza – Director of Transportation and Public Works EXECUTIVE SESSION (No public discussion) The Planning Commission will announce it will go into Executive Session, if necessary, according to Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code, to receive advice from Legal Counsel on matters Executive Liaison: Joi Harden, 512-974-1617 Staff Liaison: Ella Garcia, 512-978-0821 specifically listed on the agenda. The Commission may not conduct a closed meeting without the approval of the city attorney. Private Consultation with Attorney – Section 551.071. CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first four 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. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 1. Discussion and action to recommend that Council amend the Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan to add the Equity-Based Preservation Plan, which is a historic preservation plan, to the City’s comprehensive plan. Presentation by Cara Bertron, 512- 974-1446, cara.bertron@austintexas.gov, Planning Department. 2. Discussion and action recommending adoption of the Austin Core Transportation Plan (ACT Plan) as an attachment to the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan (ASMP). Presentation by Cole Kitten, 512-974-6442, cole.kitten@austintexas.gov, Transportation and Public Works Department. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING of the PLANNING COMMISSION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2024, 5:00 PM AUSTIN CITY HALL, BOARD AND COMMISSION, ROOM 1101 301 WEST 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Planning 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. Registration no later than 2 PM the day of the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. For more information on public comment, please see the agenda section “Speaker Registration”. Please contact Ella Garcia, Staff Liaison, for questions regarding speaker registration at LandUseLiaison@austintexas.gov or by phone at 512-978-0821. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Claire Hempe1, Chair (District 8) Awais Azhar, Vice Chair (Mayor’s Representative) Greg Anderson, Secretary (District 4) Alice Woods, Parliamentarian (District 2) Patrick Howard (District 1) Nadia Barrera-Ramirez (District 3) Felicity Maxwell (District 5) EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS: Casey Haney (District 6) Ryan Johnson (District 7) Danielle Skidmore (District 9) Grayson Cox (District 10) Alberta Phillips (Mayor’s Representative) Adam Haynes (Mayor’s Representative) Jessica Cohen, Chair of Board of Adjustment Candace Hunter, AISD Board of Trustees TC Broadnax, City Manager Richard Mendoza – Director of Transportation and Public Works EXECUTIVE SESSION (No public discussion) The Planning Commission will announce it will go into Executive Session, if necessary, according to Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code, to receive advice from Legal Counsel on matters Executive Liaison: Joi Harden, 512-974-1617 Staff Liaison: Ella Garcia, 512-978-0821 specifically listed on the agenda. The Commission may not conduct a closed meeting without the approval of the city attorney. Private Consultation with Attorney – Section 551.071. CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first four 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. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 1. Discussion and action to recommend that Council amend the Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan to add the Equity-Based Preservation Plan, which is a historic preservation plan, to the City’s comprehensive plan. Presentation by Cara Bertron, 512- 974-1446, cara.bertron@austintexas.gov, Planning Department. 2. Discussion and action recommending adoption of the Austin Core Transportation Plan (ACT Plan) as an attachment to the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan (ASMP). Presentation by Cole Kitten, 512-974-6442, cole.kitten@austintexas.gov, Transportation and Public Works Department. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. …
Equity-Based Preservation Plan Learning from Our Past to Shape a Future for Everyone 2024 Austin, Texas Preservation Plan Working Group Historic Landmark Commission Vision for Historic Preservation Historic preservation in Austin actively engages communities in protecting and sharing important places and stories. Preservation uses the past to create a shared sense of belonging and to shape an equitable, inclusive, sustainable, and economically vital future for all. These images represent community heritage to Austinites: Lunar New Year celebrations, Mayfield Park, the landmarked Mary Baylor House in Clarksville, a Mexican American celebration at the Capitol, Barton Hills homes, Huston-Tillotson University. Preservation Plan Working Group Michelle Benavides Linda Y. Jackson Leslie Ornelas 1 Noel Bridges 1 Julia Brookins* Meghan King* Emily Payne Jolene Kiolbassa 1 Rocio Peña-Martinez* Brita Wallace* 1 Amalia Carmona 2 Kevin Koch Misael Ramos* 1 Bob Ward 1 Ursula A. Carter Kelechi Madubuko 1 Mary Reed* 1 Caroline Wright 1 Maria Solis* 1 Erin Waelder 1 Mary Jo Galindo* 1 Brenda Malik Jerry Garcia 1 Hanna Huang* 1 Alyson McGee 1 Debra Murphy 2 Lori Renteria 1 Gilbert Rivera 1 JuanRaymon Rubio 2 * Drafting Committee member 1 Phase 1 member only 2 Phase 2 member only The Preservation Plan Working Group included 26 community members who developed this draft plan in phase 1. Land Acknowledgment Land acknowledgments are a practice to recognize Indigenous Peoples as original stewards of the land who still have an enduring relationship with their traditional territories. We include this acknowledgment in the Equity-Based Preservation Plan as an expression of gratitude and appreciation to those whose territory we reside on and a way of honoring the Indigenous Peoples who have lived and worked on the land known as Austin, Texas. Land acknowledgments do not exist in the past tense or historical context. Colonialism is a current and ongoing process, and we need to be mindful that we are participating in it by living on colonized land. To ensure meaningful recognition and inclusion of Indigenous Peoples, more work needs to happen as part of the implementation of this plan. We acknowledge, with respect, that the land known as Texas has been home to many groups for more than 16,000 years. These include the Tonkawa, the Mescalero Apache, the Lipan Apache, the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo (Tigua people), the Texas Band of Yaqui Indians, the Coahuiltecan, the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas, the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas, the …
M E M O R A N D U M TO: Planning Commission Chair and Commissioners FROM: Cara Bertron, Planning Department DATE: October 17, 2024 Equity-Based Preservation Plan adoption SUBJECT: This memo provides a brief synopsis of the Equity-Based Preservation Plan planning process. In 2021, the Historic Landmark Commission initiated the development of a new historic preservation plan to replace Austin’s existing preservation plan from 1981. The Commission created a community working group, the Preservation Plan Working Group, to develop the plan. In this phase, the Preservation Plan Working Group comprised 26 community members who lived in 19 ZIP codes across the city and reflected Austin’s racial and ethnic diversity. Working Group members brought a range of experiences, perspectives, and expertise to the planning process. They received input and feedback from 275 community members through: • A community heritage survey • Focus groups of representatives from cultural and heritage organizations, legacy businesses, and neighborhood organizations • A Technical Advisory Group of City staff from 12 departments • A Technical Assistance Panel facilitated by the Urban Land Institute The Working Group met monthly from June 2021 to June 2022, with subcommittee meetings between many of the full-group meetings. It presented the Historic Landmark Commission with the draft Equity-Based Preservation Plan on September 7, 2022. From February through May 2024, staff coordinated a robust, inclusive community engagement process. Community members were engaged through a number of methods, including: SpeakUp Austin website (www.speakupaustin.org/ATXpresplan, 34,000 views) • • Online and paper surveys in multiple languages (2,083 surveys completed) • Email newsletters, both plan-specific (1,400 subscribers) and from other City departments and organizational partners Social media from the City of Austin (organic and paid) and organizational partners Flyer distribution at locations, events, and presentations • • • 4 City-hosted outreach events held at community hubs in East, West, and South Austin (350 • Pop-up tabling at 45 community events around Austin (1,000+ people engaged) • 31 presentations to community groups and professional stakeholder organizations, including online discussions hosted by ULI Austin and USGBC-Texas • 29 small-group and 1-on-1 conversations held by community ambassadors and mini-grant partner attendees) organizations • Briefings to 17 City boards and commissions (see below) • Article in Austin Utilities Now newsletter mailed to households citywide in April 2024 • Online survey distributed to 4,400 randomly selected service area households via email by Austin • Distribution of plan information to Small Business …
PLANNING COMMISSION | OCTOBER 21, 2024 Austin History Center (C05767, PICA 24201, PICA 29995); Chen Chen Wu; City of Austin Planning Process HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION Michelle Benavides Mary Jo Galindo*1 Jolene Kiolbassa 1 Debra Murphy 2 Misael Ramos* 1 JuanRaymon Rubio 2 Bob Ward 1 Noel Bridges 1 Jerry Garcia 1 Kevin Koch Robin Orlowski 2 Mary Reed* 1 Maria Solis* 1 Caroline Wright 1 Julia Brookins* Hanna Huang* 1 Kelechi Madubuko 1 Leslie Ornelas 1 Lori Renteria 1 Erin Waelder 1 Amalia Carmona 2 Linda Y. Jackson Brenda Malik Emily Payne Gilbert Rivera 1 Brita Wallace* 1 Ursula A. Carter Meghan King* Alyson McGee 1 Rocio Peña-Martinez* *Drafting Committee member 1 Phase 1 only 2 Phase 2 only Plan Vision Historic preservation in Austin actively engages communities in protecting and sharing important places and stories. Preservation uses the past to create a shared sense of belonging and to shape an equitable, inclusive, sustainable, and economically vital future for all. Image sources: Joe’s Bakery, anonymous, Amy Moreland/ Austin’s Atlas Images: Joe’s Bakery, home in Zilker neighborhood, detail from Music Listening Map by Amy Moreland Plan Goals 107 recommendations 1. Tell Austin’s full history 9. Proactively identify important places 2. Recognize cultural heritage 10. Follow good designation practices 3. Preserve archaeological resources 11. Support stewardship of community 4. Stabilize communities assets 5. Support environmental sustainability 12. Be strategic with review 6. Make preservation more accessible 13. Protect historic resources 7. Support people doing the work 14. Implement the plan collaboratively 8. Engage new partners What We Preserve Images, clockwise from top left: Juneteenth parade, unveiling of La Loteria mural, archaeological resources Image sources: The Austin Chronicle (two images), San Antonio Office of Historic Preservation Think broadly. • Recognize Austin’s rich and complex history through active listening, inclusive research, and interpretation • Better recognize and protect legacy businesses, murals, and archaeological resources • Use preservation tools to support displacement prevention and environmental sustainability Who Preserves Invite and support. • Engage new partners and audiences • Help community members access knowledge and resources • Support people doing the work: homeowners and tenants, crafts- people, commissioners, and staff Images, clockwise from top left: Protest at City Hall to preserve Edward Rendon Park (Chicano Park), door hanger in San Antonio, “Stories within Stories” project of the Austin Asian American Film Festival Image sources: Bertha Rendon Delgado, San Antonio Office of Historic Preservation, Austin Asian American …
Austin Core Transportation (ACT) Plan Small Area Mobility Plan of the ASMP: Downtown Austin Planning Commission - October 21, 2024 Cole Kitten, TPW, Division Manager Agenda • ACT Plan Purpose and Background • Planning Process • ACT Plan Project Recommendations • Implementation Plan • Next Steps 2 ACT Plan Purpose • The ACT Plan is a Small Area Mobility Plan covering Downtown Austin and will be adopted by Council as an attachment to the ASMP. • It is an update to previous transportation focused efforts Downtown – dating back to 2000 • Why are we updating the transportation plan for Downtown? • changes in transit and bicycle planning, • changes in highway improvements serving Downtown, • changes in national best practices on urban street design, and • disruptions to traditional mobility • The ACT Plan will create a unified vision for transportation Downtown and align the many projects and initiatives under one actionable plan to help accomplish the goals in the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan. 3 Background • Great Streets Master Plan, 2001 • The goal of the Great Streets program is to pursue the vision of streets for people • Downtown Access and Mobility Plan, 2002 • The emphasis of the access and mobility study was on modeling and simulating intersection traffic operations and determining existing and future levels-of- service and operational needs • Downtown Transportation Framework, 2008 • The Downtown Transportation Framework Plan builds on the Great Streets Master Plan, further developing the system of “priority streets by mode”, and developing more detailed streetscape cross sections of all of the different street types and variations • Downtown Austin Plan, 2011 • Established the vision to develop a multimodal transportation system that improves access to and mobility within Downtown 2001 2002 2008 2011 4 Background • New policy • The Austin Strategic Mobility Plan (ASMP) aspires to achieve a 50/50 mode share where 50% of commuters use means other than driving alone to get to work in 2039 • Transit planning • The Project Connect Long Term Vision Plan established a High-Capacity Transit System and was adopted as an element of the ASMP – an initial investment was funded in 2020 • Managing demand • Transportation Demand Management programming, parking policy, and curb management are becoming critical strategies to manage congestion • New street design • The Congress Avenue Urban Design Initiative shows how to reimagine the allocation of …
Briefing on Density Bonus 90 (DB90) Eric Thomas, Division Manager 2022 City Council adopted Ordinance No. 20220609-080, creating a second tier of the VMU program, referred to as VMU2, which allowed for increased height in exchange for increased community benefits. City Council adopted Ordinance No. 20221201-055, creating an incentive program that allows residential uses in commercial zoning districts, referred to as Residential in Commercial, which allowed for the construction of residential uses in exchange for increased community benefits. Ordinance No. 20220609-080, Ordinance No. 20221201-055, and Ordinance No. 20221201-056 were invalidated. Background 2023 2024 City Council adopted Ordinance No. 20240229-073 on an 8-2 vote, which created the Density Bonus 90 (DB90) combining district and density bonus program with requirements and incentives mirroring VMU2 provisions. Prior to the adoption, the Planning Commission recommended DB90 on a vote of 8-3-1 in February. City Council adopted Ordinance No. 20240829-158 on a 9-0 vote, which amended regulations applicable to the Density Bonus 90 (DB90) combining district. Prior to the adoption, the Planning Commission recommended the DB90 amendments on a vote of 9-1 in July. 2 Requirements and Incentives Affordability – Rental: – 10% of units set-aside affordable to 50% Median Family Income (MFI); OR – 12% of units set-aside affordable to 60% MFI – Ownership: – 12% of units set-aside affordable to 80% MFI i. Requirements for ownership units may be satisfied by a fee in-lieu of on-site units Mix of Uses – Requirements for pedestrian-oriented commercial uses – Floors beyond the second must be residential Site Development Standards – Exemptions from standards include the following: – Minimum site area requirements – Maximum floor area ratio – Maximum building coverage – Minimum street side yard setback and interior yard setback – Minimum front yard setback – Article 10 Compatibility Standards Subchapter C Height – 30 ft in additional height from the base zone up to a maximum of 90 ft 3 DB90 Cases – Total 56 Cases Total 27 New Cases 24 City-Initiated Cases 5 Amended Cases City- Initiated 43% New 48% Amended 9% Case Types 4 DB90 Cases – Total 56 Cases Total 26 Cases In-Process 29 Cases Closed 1 Case Withdrawn D10 4% D1 12% D9 21% D8 2% D7 5% D5 9% D4 13% D2 7% D3 27% Cases per Council District 5 DB90 Cases – Total 56 Cases …
Austin Population Growth and Demographic Trends Planning Commission October 21, 2024 Content Austin’s Population Growth Areas of Change Austin’s Unique Diversity Austin Concurrencies Austin’s Population Growth Level Setting • • • • Austin is the 11th largest U.S. city and the principal city of the Austin metro region, the 2nd fastest-growing region in the country. Austin had been doubling in size every 20-25 years; recent growth is a fraction of historical rates. Even as it grows, Austin makes up a smaller share of the total region due to significant and rapid growth in the suburbs. • Migration, especially domestic migration, is the main driver of population growth to Austin, which places immediate pressures on infrastructure and resources, requiring a nimble response. Although a leader in job growth relative to other metros, like Austin’s population, its job growth has been slowing and jobs are more dispersed throughout the region, with smaller shares of Austinites living and working in Austin. 4 Population Change, 2010 to 2020 • Areas with greatest population growth mostly in suburban areas. • Similar growth also evident in areas within the City where dense growth was encouraged, such as downtown, the Domain, and the Mueller development. Source: U.S. Census Bureau, P.L. 94-171 Redistricting Data, 2020. 5 Housing Unit Change, 2010 to 2020 • Strong association between population and housing unit growth. • Areas of high development along the edges of the city (NW: Lakeline; NE: Tech Ridge; SE: Onion Creek & north ABIA; SW: Circle C) were also areas of greater racial/ethnic diversity. • Fast-developing areas closer to the city core (Riverside, Holly, Mueller, Downtown) were areas where White population drove growth. • The Domain & West Campus saw fast-growth and increased diversity. Source: U.S. Census Bureau, P.L. 94-171 Redistricting Data, 2020. 6 Austin is a city of dualities with concurrent growth gains and growing pains. Growth Gains Growing Pains Austin had been doubling its population every 20-25 years, recent growth is slower, and Austin makes up a smaller share of the region. Austin added an unprecedented number (90k+) of housing units between 2010 and 2020 and is on pace to surpass units added last decade. Austin population growth has yielded increased diversity with growth among all races and ethnicities. Austin is consistently among highest performers in job growth and has a young, highly educated workforce. Population growth has resulted in a farther eastward movement of population, primarily …
TO: Claire Hempel, Chair & Planning Commission Members FROM: Cole Kitten, Division Manager, Systems Development Division Transportation and Public Works Department DATE: October 18, 2024 RE: Discussion and action recommending adoption of the Austin Core Transportation Plan (ACT Plan) as an attachment to the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan (ASMP). Staff requests a postponement of the above-referenced agenda item from the Special Called October 21, 2024 Planning Commission meeting. The plan is still in development and has not been published for review and comment. The item will be requested to be rescheduled to a future date when a timeline has been determined. The postponement request was made in a timely manner and meets the Planning Commission’s policy.
