SOUTH CENTRAL WATERFRONT ADVISORY BOARD RECOMMENDATION 20240401-003 Subject: South Central Waterfront Combining District & Density Bonus Program – Endangered Open Spaces Seconded By: Date: April 1, 2024 Motioned By: Recommendations The four key Open Spaces in the Vision Framework Plan are endangered by years of city inaction and by the transition from a true regulating plan to an opt-in Combining District Program that fails to acknowledge previous open space masterplanning at any level. While the Parks fee-in-lieu allocation and parkland dedication community benefit in the Program will no doubt help secure both funding and potential park land in the aggregate, developing a SCW Open Spaces Masterplan and Budget are critical in achieving the district-wide vision. In addition, the Program should require that all approved PUDs or PDAs seeking to unwind and opt into the SCWCD in the future, must satisfy their negotiated obligations to these Open Space projects. Description of Recommendation to Council .1 Direct PARD or another City Department to develop a comprehensive SCW Open Spaces Masterplan that further defines how the four open space catalyst projects in the Vision Framework Plan will be designed and delivered in the current regulatory environment. .2 Direct PARD or another City Department to develop a companion SCW Open Spaces Budget that projects estimated FIL funds from the DBSCW and details how these funds, along with other possible public and private funding sources not yet fully explored, will be used to finance the four key open spaces in a timely manner, and prior to those funds being used outside the District. .3 Add Section 5.1.A.5 – The applicant must satisfy all parkland dedication and open space community benefit obligations codified in a prior PUD or PDA executed after the June 16, 2016 adoption of the SCW Vision Framework Plan. The Director shall determine the total bonus area obtainable through the previously negotiated obligations and shall apply them to satisfy the DBSCW Parkland Fee-in-Lieu requirement and/or other community benefits. Rationale: The City of Austin won a US EPA grant from the “Greening of America’s Capitals Program” in 2016 and in conjunction with much stakeholder and public input that year, planned out approximately 20 acres of open space and trail improvements in the SCW area. The plan sought to humanize the district, increase connectivity, respect and promote the waterfront, improve water quality, nurture Austin’s eclectic character and create a welcoming, inclusive gateway to the South …
March 20, 2024 Austin Environmental Commission Via Electronic Delivery Re: Southshore District Combining District and Density Bonus Environmental Commissioners, Please find the following recommendations from the Save Our Springs Alliance concerning the current draft regulating plan for the South Shore Waterfront Combining District and regulating plan. These are relatively abbreviated comments, and we intend to continue to expand upon them as the plan makes their way through the public process. As an initial comment, we would encourage the Environmental Commission and all commissions to carefully study and review the plan. There seems to be a disconnect between the Southshore Vision Framework and much of the draft language that cannot be resolved in a single public hearing. As an advisory commission to the City Council, please take the time that you need to review and make recommendations. SOS Recommendations: 1. Riparian Zone Impacts. Mandate City Council oversight and approval for any modificaOons of the hike-and-bike trail and for any expansion of trails within the CriOcal Water Quality Zone and Water Quality TransiOon Zone. 2. District Overreach. Remove properOes that were not previously included within the Southshore Vision Framework. 3. Maintain Waterfront Overlay. Maintain the current waterfront overlay regulaOons, including setbacks, height limits, use restricOons, and impervious cover limits. 4. South Shore is Not Downtown. Scale back on the downtown-level densiOes within the South Shore Subdistrict of the Waterfront Overlay, which was intenOonally more of a natural aestheOc compared to Downtown. 5. Rezone All ProperCes. Rezone all the properOes within the Southshore District to require compliance with the regulaOng plan and ensure consistency with the Vision Framework. OpOonal/piecemeal compliance will not achieve the community benefits. 6. Enhance Open Space Requirement. Increase the requirements for public open space recognizing the constraints on requirements for dedicated, on-site parkland. 7. Require On-Site DedicaCon / No Fee-in-Lieu. To the maximum extent permi[ed under state law, require that all parkland requirements be met through on-site dedicaOon (removing the fee-in- _______________Austin’s water watchdog since 1992_______________ 4701 Westgate Blvd, D-401, Austin, TX, 78745 • 512-477-2320 • SOSAlliance.org lieu). Please also enhance the density bonus program to include more emphasis on on-site parkland dedicaOon. 8. No Public Subsidies. The enOre district relies too much on subsidizaOon from public tax dollars. Adding a density bonus on top of public subsidies is conceptually flawed. Brief Explanations of Each Recommendation. 1. Limit Riparian Zone Impacts. The Southshore Vision Framework states: “Almost all of …
SOUTH CENTRAL WATERFRONT ADVISORY BOARD RECOMMENDATION APRIL 1, 2024 AGENDA ITEM #3 Subject: Proposed South Central Waterfront Combining District and Density Bonus Program Motioned By: Board Member Sullivan Seconded By: Board Member Puzycki Grant staff recommendation, as amended, to create a new combining district and density bonus program governing development in South Central Waterfront District. Date: April 1, 2024 Recommendation Amendments: 1. Refine above-ground structured parking criteria to align with the Urban Design Guidelines on parking facades and accommodate practical code/layout concerns. Revise Section 3.6.1.C.2 to read “Above-ground structured parking may be exposed to a street front provided that the structure’s façade shall be the same as, or of equal quality to, the material used for the street facing building façade. Revise Section 3.6.1.C.3 to read “All above-ground structured parking shall have flat parking decks wherever possible.” Rationale. These amendments seek to correct conflicts with Urban Design Guidelines/B.5 “Control On-Site Parking,” other COA regulating plans such as ERC Article 4/4/b/c. and IBC 2021 section 406.2.4. By adding “wherever possible” provides flexibility for efficient, code-compliant layouts. 2. Publicly visible oversight by the South Central Waterfront Advisory Board should be a program requirement. Rationale. A continued advisory role for the SCWAB was envisioned in the original Vision Framework Plan and 2018 Draft Regulating Plan Draft. The SCWAB provides critical continuity and communication amongst stakeholders and advocates for the District to ensure that the original vision is properly implemented. It also provides the only public transparency into the process, allowing citizens insight into upcoming SCW projects and giving them a platform for direct feedback as SCWAB recommendations are formed. 3. Amend the fee schedule and density bonuses to provide “stackable bonuses” or “value multipliers” to incentivize large, unique or desirable permanent community benefits. Rationale: Value multipliers for certain benefits will incentivize either uniquely large, uniquely useful, or uniquely desirable permanent community benefits as opposed to smaller, disjointed, lower-value benefits. 4. Pursue efforts that increase the number of affordable units within and near the South Central Waterfront District 1 of 2 Rationale: Tap available resources and tools to ensure affordable housing is created within the SCW District or adjacent to it. 5. Amend boundaries of the South Central Waterfront Housing Fee Spending Area to be within 15-minute walk of high frequency mass transit lines. Rationale: Housing Trust Funds collected from SCW developments should be used for creating affordable housing within the SCW District or …
SOUTH-CENTRAL WATERFRONT ADVISORY BOARD SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, APRIL 1, 2024 AT 6:00PM The South Central Waterfront Advisory Board convened the Special Called Meeting at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr, Austin, TX 78752 in a hybrid format. BOARD MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE: Jim Stephenson, Chair Felicity Maxwell, Vice Chair David Sullivan, Board Member Ryan Puzycki, Board Member BOARD MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY: Julia Woods, Board Member Isaac Cohen, Board Member Hopie Martinez, Ex Officio (Financial Services - Real Estate) Rebecca Edwards, Ex Officio (Housing) Matiur Rahman, Ex Officio (Transportation) CALL TO ORDER Chair J. Stephenson called the Meeting to order at 6:05 pm. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 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. Bobby Levinski from Save Our Springs Alliance shared general comments and recommendations regarding the South Central Waterfront Combining District and Density Bonus Plan. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board (SCWAB) Regular Meeting of the March 18, 2024 a. The motion to approve the minutes was made by Board Member D. Sullivan and seconded by Vice Chair F. Maxwell and passed by a vote of (6-0). Board Member Bazan was absent. DISCUSSION 2. Discussion on staff presentation on South Central Waterfront (SCW) Combining District and Density Bonus Program Draft dated March 27, 2024 by April Geruso of the City of Austin Planning Department. a. April Geruso of the Planning Department presented to the Board a summary of staff’s revised SCW Combining District and Density Bonus Program dated April 1, 2024. No action was taken. DISCUSSION AND ACTION 3. Discussion and action to recommend amendments to the proposed South Central Waterfront Combining District & Density Bonus Program. o A base motion was made by Vice Chair F. Maxwell and seconded by Board Member D. Sullivan to adopt April 1, 2024 version of staff’s proposed South Central Waterfront Combining District & Density Bonus Program. Motion was passed by vote of 6-0 with Board Member Bazan absent. Amendments a. Recommendation 1 –A motion was made by Vice Chair F. Maxwell and seconded by Board Member D. Sullivan to amend staff’s proposal to refine criteria regarding above-ground, structured parking to align with the Urban Design Guidelines on parking facades and to accommodate practical code …
REGULAR MEETING of the SOUTH-CENTRAL WATERFRONT ADVISORY BOARD MONDAY, MARCH 18, 2024 AT 7:00PM Permitting and Development Center 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr., Room 1405 Austin, TX 78752 Some members of the BOARD/COMMISSION may be participating by videoconference. 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 to listen in on the meeting, call or email Margaret Shaw at (512)-974-6497 or margaret.shaw@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Jim Stephenson, Chair Felicity Maxwell, Vice Chair Conners Ladner, Board Member David Sullivan, Board Member Julia Woods, Board Member Stephanie Bazan, Board Member Isaac Cohen, Board Member Ryan Puzycki, Board Member Vacant , South River City Neighborhood Association Rebecca Edwards, Ex Officio (Housing) Dewitt Peart, Ex Officio(Downtown Austin Alliance) Matiur Rahman, Ex Officio (Transportation) Hopie Martinez, Ex Officio (Financial Services - Real Estate) AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 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. 2. 3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board (SCWAB) Regular Meeting of the February 22, 2024 DISCUSSION Discussion on a presentation on redevelopment plans for 500 South Congress in a Planned Unit Development (PUD) application by Michael Iannacone of The Related Companies, L.P. Discussion on the proposed South Central Waterfront Combining District with a Density Bonus Program. 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 Margaret Shaw at the Economic Development Department, at (512)-974-6497 or margaret.shaw@austintexas.gov, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board, please contact Margaret Shaw at the Economic Development Department, at (512)-974-6497 or margaret.shaw@austintexas.gov.
SOUTH-CENTRAL WATERFRONT ADVISORY BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES FEBRUARY 22, 2024, AT 6:00PM The South Central Waterfront Advisory Board convened the Regular Meeting at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr, Austin, TX 78752 in a hybrid format. BOARD MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE: Jim Stephenson, Chair David Sullivan Ryan Puzycki BOARD MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY: Julia Woods Felicity Maxwell, Vice Chair Isaac Cohen Stephanie Bazan Rebecca Edwards, Ex-Officio Hopie Martinez, Ex-Officio DeWitt Peart, Ex-Officio Matiur Rahman, Ex-Officio CALL TO ORDER Chair J. Stephenson called the Meeting to order at 6:03 pm. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board (SCWAB) Regular Meeting of the January 18, 2024 The motion to approve the minutes was made by Board Member D. Sullivan, seconded by Vice Chair F. Maxwell and approved by a vote of (7-0). Board Member C. Ladner was not present. DISCUSSION 2. Staff presentation on the South Central Waterfront Combining District with a Density Bonus Program by April Geruso of the City of Austin Planning Department. April Geruso and staff from the City of Austin Departments of Watershed Protection, Planning, Housing, Transportation and Public Works, and Parks and Recreation briefed the Board on status of the South Central Waterfront (SCW) Combining District and Density Bonus Program. Discussion on FY2024-25 City of Austin Budget Recommendations. SCWAB staff liaison, Margaret Shaw, provided overview of City budget process and explained all Boards and Commissions may submit recommendations to City Council regarding allocation of resources (funding, staff) by March 31, 2024. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 4. Update from Active Projects Working Group meeting on January 24, 2024 with developer of 500 South Congress. Chair J. Stephenson and Board Member D. Sullivan shared update on their meeting with Michael Iannacone from The Related Companies on plans to redevelop 500 South Congress. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Board action on Combining District and Density Bonus Program from City Planning Department staff (Chair Stephenson, Vice Chair Maxwell) Presentation by Michael Iannacone from The Related Companies on plans to redevelop 500 South Congress. (Chair Stephenson, Board Member Sullivan) Updates from Working Groups (Chair Stephenson, Vice Chair Maxwell) ADJOURNMENT Chair J. Stephenson adjourned the meeting at 8:13 pm. 3.
500 S O U T H C O N G R E S S M I X E D - U S E D E V E L O P M E N T CONFIDENTIAL : NOT FOR UNAUTHORIZED DISTRIBUTION RELATED A G L O B A L R E A L E S TAT E C O M PA N Y Widely recognized as one of the most innovative and prolific developers in the U.S., The Related Companies is one of the most prominent privately-owned real estate firms in the country with over $60 billion in assets owned, managed, or under development. Founded in 1972 by Stephen M. Ross, Related has become a fully-integrated, highly diversified industry leader with experience in virtually every aspect of development, design, construction, acquisitions, management, finance, marketing, leasing, and sales. Led by visionaries who are passionate about real estate and the future of cities, Related Companies has an extensive track record executing complex transactions across the country with the resources necessary to deliver successful development projects. Related’s capabilities include residential development ranging from affordable and workforce housing to luxury rental and for-sale residences; large format retail and industrial developments; hotel and hospitality opportunities; office developments; and unparalleled expertise incorporating all of these uses, along with verdant and reflective open spaces, into dynamic city centers. Headquartered in New York City, Related has additional offices and major developments in Austin, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, San Francisco, Washington, D.C., West Palm Beach, Abu Dhabi, and London - and boasts a team of over 4,000 professionals. WORLD CLASS OPERATOR R E L AT E D E X P E R I E N C E $60+ Billion Real Estate Portfolio Owned, and/or managed, and under construction Innovator in Mixed- Use Development Hudson Yards, Deutsche Bank Center (f.k.a. Time Warner Center), The Square Downtown West Palm, Al Maryah Central, Related Santa Clara, The 78, The Grand Los Angeles and Brent Cross Town 67,500 Residential Units 5,500 luxury condominiums 12,000 luxury rental apartments 50,000 affordable and workforce apartments 30 Million SF of Commercial Space Including retail, office and hotel Focus on Gateway Cities New York, Boston, Chicago, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Washington DC, Miami/South Florida, Abu Dhabi, London and now Austin Developer of Hudson Yards, New York The largest private real estate development in US history, 28 acres, including 20 million SF of development 1 LADYBIRD LAKE 500 SOUTH …
March 18th, 2024 South Central Waterfront Advisory Board Item #3 - Discussion on the proposed SCW Combining District and Density Bonus Program Submitted by the Travis Audubon Society The Travis Audubon Society requested this report on bird safe buildings for presentation to the City of Austin and general dissemination within the Central Texas community. It has been prepared by Heidi Trudell, a bird collision prevention researcher and consultant, who in March 2024 was hired as a technical advisor by Guardian Glass. Passing directly over Austin, North America’s Central Flyway serves as the primary migration corridor1 during spring and fall for hundreds of species of birds. Due to this geographic funneling, Texas is home to three of the top ten most deadly cities for birds2 (Houston, Dallas, San Antonio), making it especially critical to proactively preserve biodiversity. Travis County alone has documented 4273 species of birds, which is more than fourteen states4 have recorded. With bird populations in steep decline,5 and 621 million to 2 billion6 birds dying at windows in the US annually, it is critical now more than ever that municipal leaders, especially in ecologically significant areas like Austin, step forward to reverse the trend. Initial steps have already been taken; Austin’s dedication to bird conservation has already been established by committing to meet the standards of a Bird City.7 This includes a pledge to reduce nonessential lighting during migration8 that comes as part of a statewide initiative9 to address the detrimental impact that artificial light at night has on migrating birds. As Austinites are well aware, however, it’s not just birds that need dark skies to thrive; even outside of bird migration, bats are especially sensitive to lighting.10 1allaboutbirds.org/news/heres-how-to-use-the-new-migration-forecast-tools-from-birdcast/# 2news.cornell.edu/stories/2019/04/chicago-tops-list-most-dangerous-cities-migrating-birds 3ebird.org/region/US-TX-453?yr=all 4ebird.org/region/US/regions 53billionbirds.org 6meridian.allenpress.com/wjo/article-abstract/doi/10.1676/23-00045/498924/Evidence-consequences-and-angle-of-strike-of-bird 7austintexas.gov/news/austin-now-designated-bird-city-working-protect-habitats-and-promote-bird-friendly-practices 8traviscountytx.gov/news/2021/2113-lights-out-for-migrating-birds 9tx.audubon.org/urbanconservation/lights-out-texas 10batcon.org/new-paper-suggests-light-pollution-limits-bat-habitat/ The next step is to address the built environment directly. Glass is a dynamic material; it can reflect habitat or be entirely transparent. As a result, birds are unable to see glass11 unless it is modified. Poorly designed buildings dramatically increase the risk of collision. One way to significantly improve the odds of survival for birds living in or migrating through Central Texas is to ensure that buildings meet bird safe standards.12 Every building that is made bird safe - as new construction or a retrofit - will save dozens to hundreds of birds13 per building, per year. Best practices in bird safe building standards align with Austin’s values14 of …
1. SOUTH-CENTRAL WATERFRONT ADVISORY BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MARCH 18, 2024, AT 7:00PM The South Central Waterfront Advisory Board convened the Regular Meeting at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr, Austin, TX 78752 in a hybrid format. BOARD MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE: Jim Stephenson, Chair David Sullivan DeWitt Peart, Ex-Officio BOARD MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY: Julia Woods Felicity Maxwell, Vice Chair Isaac Cohen Stephanie Bazan Ryan Puzycki Conner Ladner Hopie Martinez, Ex-Officio Absent Matiur Rahman, Ex-Officio Rebecca Edwards, Ex-Officio CALL TO ORDER Chair J. Stephenson called the Meeting to order at 7:01 pm. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board (SCWAB) Regular Meeting of the February 22, 2024 The motion to approve the minutes was made by Board Member D. Sullivan, seconded by Vice Chair F. Maxwell and approved by a vote of (8-0). DISCUSSION 2. Discussion on a presentation on redevelopment plans for 500 South Congress in a Planned Unit Development (PUD) application by Michael Iannacone of The Related Companies, L.P. Michael Iannacone, Executive Vice President, and Dawood Rouben, Vice President, of The Related Companies, L.P. briefed the Board on redevelopment plans for 500 South Congress through a powerpoint presentation and video. No action was taken 3. Discussion on the proposed South Central Waterfront Combining District with a Density Bonus Program. Public speaker Maureen Powers from Texas Audubon Society requested SCWAB consider including in their recommendation “bird safe design” and other elements that support biodiversity in SCW District. No action was taken. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Special called meeting on April 1, 2024 for Board action on Combining District and Density Bonus Program from City Planning Department staff (Chair Stephenson, Vice Chair Maxwell) Updates from Working Groups (Chair Stephenson, Vice Chair Maxwell) ADJOURNMENT Chair J. Stephenson adjourned the meeting at 8:13 pm. The minutes were approved at the April 1, 2024 Special Called Meeting on a motion from Board Member D. Sullivan and seconded by Vice Chair F. Maxwell on a 6-0 vote. (Absent: Board Member S. Bazan and Board Member C. Ladner)
SOUTH-CENTRAL WATERFRONT ADVISORY BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 18, 2024, AT 6:00PM The South Central Waterfront Advisory Board convened the Regular Meeting at the Permitting and Development Center Room 1401, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr, Austin, TX 78752 in a hybrid format. BOARD MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE: Jim Stephenson, Chair David Sullivan BOARD MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY: Conners Ladner Julia Woods Felicity Maxwell, Vice Chair Isaac Cohen Rebecca Edwards, Ex-Officio Housing Hopie Martinez, Ex-Officio Financial Services-Real Estate CALL TO ORDER Chair J. Stephenson called the Meeting to order at 6:05 pm. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board (SCWAB) Regular Meeting of the November 20, 2023 The motion to approve the minutes was made by Board Member D. Sullivan, seconded by Vice Chair F. Maxwell and approved by a vote of (5-0). Board Member C. Ladner was not present. BRIEFINGS 2. Staff presentation on the South Central Waterfront Combining District with a Density Bonus Program by April Geruso, Tyler Tripp, and Chad Sharrard of the City of Austin Planning Department. April Geruso, Tyler Tripp and Chad Sharrard of the City of Austin Planning Department briefed the Board on status of the South Central Waterfront (SCW) Combining District and Density Bonus Program. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES Update from the Community Benefits, Infrastructure and Regulating Plan Working Group 3. Chair Stephenson provided the update that the Working Group met on Tuesday, January 16, 2023, with Planning Department staff to review SCW Combining District and Density Bonus Program. Update from Active Projects Working Group. 4. Chair J. Stephenson, Vice Chair F. Maxwell and Board Member D. Sullivan volunteered to serve on the Active Projects Working Group, established in 2019. The Working Group plans to convene a meeting with the developer of 500 South Congress to review and discuss their redevelopment plans. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Combining District and Density Bonus Program update from City Planning Department staff (Chair Stephenson); Updates from Working Groups (Chair Stephenson) ADJOURNMENT Chair J. Stephenson adjourned the meeting at 7:32 pm.
1. REGULAR MEETING of the SOUTH-CENTRAL WATERFRONT ADVISORY BOARD THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2024 AT 6:00PM Permitting and Development Center 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr Austin, TX 78752 Some members of the BOARD/COMMISSION may be participating by videoconference. 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 to listen in on the meeting, call or email Margaret Shaw at (512)-974-6497 or margaret.shaw@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Jim Stephenson, Chair Felicity Maxwell, Vice Chair Conners Ladner, Board Member David Sullivan, Board Member Julia Woods, Board Member Stephanie Bazan, Board Member Isaac Cohen, Board Member Ryan Puzycki, Board Member Vacant , South River City Neighborhood Association Rebecca Edwards, Ex Officio (Housing) Dewitt Peart, Ex Officio(Downtown Austin Alliance) Matiur Rahman, Ex Officio (Transportation) Hopie Martinez, Ex Officio (Financial Services - Real Estate) AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 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 Approve the minutes of the South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board (SCWAB) Regular Meeting of January 18, 2024. DISCUSSION Discussion on staff presentation on the South Central Waterfront Combining District with a Density Bonus Program by April Geruso of the City of Austin Planning Department. 3. Discussion on FY2024-25 City of Austin Budget Recommendations. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES Update from Active Projects Working Group on meeting of January 24, 2024 with developer of 500 South Congress. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Note: City Code requires two board members sponsor an item to be included on an agenda. This section of the agenda provides members an opportunity to request items for future agendas. Staff should assume that if there is no objection from other members expressed at the meeting, the members’ silence indicates approval for staff to include on the next agenda. 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 …
South Central Waterfront Combining District & Density Bonus Program SCWAB February 22, 2024 History Combining District Density Bonus Program - Bonus Program Opt-in Requirements - Fees-in-Lieu - Additional On-Site Community Benefits Timeline & Ways to Provide Feedback South Central Waterfront Vision Framework Plan Adopted June 6, 2016 5 City Council Resolution 20220915-090 ▪ Directed Planning Staff to create regulations supporting implementation of the 2016 South Central Waterfront Vision Framework Plan. ▪ Program to be re-evaluated/updated at least every five years. ▪ Increased development square footage only available through the Density Bonus Program. ▪ Maximize community benefits: affordable housing, open space, and ▪ Maximize infrastructure investments: new streets, parks, bikeways, public art, etc. and trails. 6 City Council Resolution 20220915-090 ▪ Create a Density Bonus Program “akin” to Downtown. ▪ Support Project Connect transit investment. ▪ Allow entitlements significant enough to achieve required infrastructure and community benefits. ▪ Ensure entitlements meet market demand to account for increased costs and avoid continual requests to amend the code. ▪ Create enhanced environmental standards and protections. 7 City Council Resolution 20220915-090 Create a connected, pedestrian-oriented, mixed-use district where “thousands more Austinites can live, work, and play.” 8 Updates / Changes ▪ First re-evaluation will occur sooner than 5 years to account for updated details from Project Connect and citywide density bonus analysis. ▪ The SCW regulations will be implemented by: – Council adoption an optional set of regulations and bonus program through the creation of a Combining District and a Density Bonus Program (spring 2024). – City-initiated rezoning of properties in the district (summer 2024). – Subsequent rezonings and code amendments will be required to add additional properties at a later date. 9 Combining District Components ▪ General Provisions (Policies, procedures, and who can participate) ▪ Land Use Standards (Permitted and conditional land uses) ▪ Development Standards (What will be built and where) ▪ Design Standards (How it will look) ▪ Definitions 10 Density Bonus Components ▪ Procedures/Requirements ▪ “Gate Keeper” Requirements – Affordable Housing – Environmental Protection – Improved Streetscape and Built Environment ▪ In-Lieu Fees and Dedications ▪ Onsite Community Benefits Eligible for Bonus Area 11 District Boundary New parcels added that are affected by Project Connect lightrail alignment. Project Connect Rail Alignment 12 Streets and Light Rail 13 Subdistricts Council approval is required to exceed FAR maximums 14 Critical Water Quality Zones 15 Land Uses ▪ Permitted land uses support: – …
South Central Waterfront Combining District & Density Bonus Program South Central Waterfront Advisory Board February 22, 2024 History Combining District Density Bonus Program - Bonus Program Opt-in Requirements - Fees-in-Lieu - Additional On-Site Community Benefits Timeline & Ways to Provide Feedback South Central Waterfront Vision Framework Plan Adopted June 6, 2016 5 City Council Resolution 20220915-090 ▪ Directed Planning Staff to create regulations supporting implementation of the 2016 South Central Waterfront Vision Framework Plan. ▪ Program to be re-evaluated/updated at least every five years. ▪ Increased development only available through the Density Bonus Program. public art, etc. and trails. ▪ Maximize community benefits: affordable housing, open space, and ▪ Maximize infrastructure investments: new streets, parks, bikeways, 6 City Council Resolution 20220915-090 ▪ Create a Density Bonus Program “akin” to Downtown. ▪ Support Project Connect transit investment. ▪ Allow entitlements significant enough to achieve required infrastructure and community benefits. ▪ Ensure entitlements meet market demand to account for increased costs and avoid continual requests to amend the code. ▪ Create enhanced environmental standards and protections. 7 City Council Resolution 20220915-090 Create a connected, pedestrian-oriented, mixed-use district where “thousands more Austinites can live, work, and play.” 8 Updates / Changes ▪ The SCW regulations will be implemented by: – Council adoption of an optional set of regulations and bonus program through the creation of a Combining District and a Density Bonus Program (spring 2024). – City-initiated rezoning of properties in the district (summer 2024). – Subsequent rezonings and code amendments will be required to add additional properties at a later date. ▪ Regulation review will occur sooner than 5 years to account for updated details from Project Connect and citywide density bonus analysis. 9 Combining District Components ▪ General Provisions (Policies, procedures, and who can participate) ▪ Land Use Standards (Permitted and conditional land uses) ▪ Development Standards (What can be built and where) ▪ Design Standards (How it will look) ▪ Definitions 10 Density Bonus Components ▪ Procedures/Requirements ▪ “Gate Keeper” Requirements – Affordable Housing – Environmental Protection – Improved Streetscape and Built Environment ▪ In-Lieu Fees and Dedications ▪ Onsite Community Benefits Eligible for Bonus Area 11 District Boundary New parcels added that are affected by Project Connect light rail alignment. Project Connect Rail Alignment 12 Streets and Light Rail 13 Subdistricts Council approval is required to exceed FAR maximums 14 Critical Water Quality Zones 15 Land Uses ▪ Permitted …
SOUTH-CENTRAL WATERFRONT ADVISORY BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES FEBRUARY 22, 2024, AT 6:00PM The South Central Waterfront Advisory Board convened the Regular Meeting at the Permitting and Development Center, Room 1405, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr, Austin, TX 78752 in a hybrid format. BOARD MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE: Jim Stephenson, Chair David Sullivan Ryan Puzycki BOARD MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE REMOTELY: Julia Woods Felicity Maxwell, Vice Chair Isaac Cohen Stephanie Bazan Rebecca Edwards, Ex-Officio Hopie Martinez, Ex-Officio DeWitt Peart, Ex-Officio Matiur Rahman, Ex-Officio CALL TO ORDER Chair J. Stephenson called the Meeting to order at 6:03 pm. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board (SCWAB) Regular Meeting of the January 18, 2024 The motion to approve the minutes was made by Board Member D. Sullivan, seconded by Vice Chair F. Maxwell and approved by a vote of (7-0). Board Member C. Ladner was not present. DISCUSSION 2. Staff presentation on the South Central Waterfront Combining District with a Density Bonus Program by April Geruso of the City of Austin Planning Department. April Geruso and staff from the City of Austin Departments of Watershed Protection, Planning, Housing, Transportation and Public Works, and Parks and Recreation briefed the Board on status of the South Central Waterfront (SCW) Combining District and Density Bonus Program. Discussion on FY2024-25 City of Austin Budget Recommendations. 3. SCWAB staff liaison, Margaret Shaw, provided overview of City budget process and explained all Boards and Commissions may submit recommendations to City Council regarding allocation of resources (funding, staff) by March 31, 2024. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 4. Update from Active Projects Working Group meeting on January 24, 2024 with developer of 500 South Congress. Chair J. Stephenson and Board Member D. Sullivan shared update on their meeting with Michael Iannacone from The Related Companies on plans to redevelop 500 South Congress. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Board action on Combining District and Density Bonus Program from City Planning Department staff (Chair Stephenson, Vice Chair Maxwell) Presentation by Michael Iannacone from The Related Companies on plans to redevelop 500 South Congress. (Chair Stephenson, Board Member Sullivan) Updates from Working Groups (Chair Stephenson, Vice Chair Maxwell) ADJOURNMENT Chair J. Stephenson adjourned the meeting at 8:13 pm. The minutes were approved at the March 18, 2024 Meeting on a motion from Board Member D. Sullivan and seconded by Vice Chair F. Maxwell on a 8-0 vote.
REGULAR MEETING of the SOUTH-CENTRAL WATERFRONT ADVISORY BOARD THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024 AT 6:00PM Permitting and Development Center 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr Austin, TX 78752 Some members of the BOARD/COMMISSION may be participating by videoconference. 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 to listen in on the meeting, call or email Margaret Shaw at (512)-974-6497 or margaret.shaw@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS: Rebecca Edwards, Ex Officio (Housing) Dewitt Peart, Ex Officio(Downtown Austin Alliance) Matiur Rahman, Ex Officio (Transportation) Hopie Martinez, Ex Officio (Financial Services - Real Estate) Jim Stephenson, Chair Felicity Maxwell, Vice Chair Conners Ladner, Board Member David Sullivan, Board Member Julia Woods, Board Member Stephanie Bazan, Board Member Isaac Cohen, Board Member Vacant , South River City Neighborhood Association Vacant, Mayor/District 9 AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 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. 2. 3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board (SCWAB) Regular Meeting of the November 20, 2023 DISCUSSION Staff presentation on the South Central Waterfront Combining District with a Density Bonus Program by April Geruso, Tyler Tripp, and Chad Sharrard of the City of Austin Planning Department. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES Update from the Community Benefits, Infrastructure and Regulating Plan Working Group. 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 Margaret Shaw at the Economic Development Department, at (512)-974-6497 or margaret.shaw@austintexas.gov, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the South-Central Waterfront Advisory Board, please contact Margaret Shaw at the Economic Development Department, at (512)-974-6497 or margaret.shaw@austintexas.gov.
SOUTH-CENTRAL WATERFRONT ADVISORY BOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES NOVEMBER 20, 2023, AT 6:00PM The South Central Waterfront Advisory Board Convened in a Regular Meeting on January 19th at the Permitting and Development Center Room 1401, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr, Austin, TX 78752 Chair J. Stephenson called the Meeting to order at 6:04 pm BOARD MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE: Jim Stephenson, Chair Felicity Maxwell, Vice Chair (Remote) Isaac Cohen, Board Member (Remote) David Sullivan, Board Member Julia Woods, Board Member (Remote) EX OFFICO MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE: Dewitt Peart, Downtown Austin Alliance (Remote) Hopie Martinez, City of Austin Office of Real Estate Services STAFF IN ATTENDANCE: Aaron D. Jenkins Margaret Shaw APPROVAL OF MINUTES BRIEFINGS 1. The minutes from the Regular Meeting of October 16, 2023, were approved on Board Member D. Sullivan motion, Vice Chair F. Maxwell seconded the motion on a vote of (5-0). 2. Laura Dierenfield of the City of Austin Transportation & Public Works Department and Jana McCann of McCann Adams Studio, briefed the Board on the Congress Avenue Urban Design Initiative a. No action was taken. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 3. Update from the Active Projects Working Group a. The Working Group will coordinate a date and time with the Planning Department to meet after the Thanksgiving Holiday FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 4. The following are future agenda items: a. Regulating Plan Update ADJOURNMENT Chair J. Stephenson adjourned the meeting 7:17pm
South Central Waterfront Advisory Board Update January 18, 2024 Content SCW Regulating Plan vs SCW Combining District + Density Bonus Program Density Bonus Calculator Density Map / Boundary Changes Timeline Current City of Austin Regulating Plans SCW Combining District + Density Bonus Program NBG and TOD Regulating Plan Regulations within CoA Regulating Plans are required and do not function as density bonuses. • Optional program. • The SCW becomes a Combining District with ensuing zoning changes that allows applicants to utilize the density bonus program. 3 3 Density Bonus Calculator Several elements of the bonus program are subject to change pending further review and feedback. Designed to calculate the total fee-in-lieu amount associated with the desired bonus area. Pending further internal review, this fee will be divided into several fees-in-lieu for Housing, Parks, and Other Infrastructure. Overall fee amount is subject to change pending consultant review. 4 Density Bonus Calculator An estimated number of on-site affordable units (at 60% MFI) is provided by the calculator. Provides the value of on-site community benefits to be provided to achieve the desired bonus. 5 Density Bonus Calculator For 3:1 FAR, 5% of housing must be affordable at 60% MFI. For for-sale units, a fee-in-lieu equivalent will apply (cost currently being modeled). For non-residential development under 3:1, a non-residential fee shall apply per square foot of development (cost currently being modeled). 6 Density Bonus Calculator 70% of the bonus area above 3:1 FAR must be achieved through fees-in-lieu from which certain dedications (such as on-site affordable housing and parkland) may be removed. – For non-residential development, a non-residential fee shall apply per square foot of bonus area (cost currently being modeled). – For residential development, a residential fee shall apply per square foot of bonus area (cost currently being modeled). 7 Density Bonus Calculator 30% of the bonus area above 3:1 FAR must be achieved through on-site community benefits. 8 Density Map / Boundary Changes 3/16mi buffer from SF 1/16mi buffer from SF 9 Timeline Jan – Feb Staff finalize draft (Jan/ early Feb) Public Comment (Feb 7 – Mar 4) Public Meetings (Mid-late February) March April May Staff incorporates feedback Review / Adoption (April/May) 10 Thank You
