St. John Site is Under Development Agreement

The City of Austin Economic Development Department is pleased to announce the successful execution of a Master Development Agreement (MDA) contract between the City of Austin and Greystar Development Central, LLC, in collaboration with the Housing Authority of the City of Austin (HACA). This partnership aims to redevelop the 19-acre, city-owned site located at 800 East St. John Avenue (formerly 7211 & 7309 North IH-35, Home Depot & Chrysler Dealership) into a vibrant mixed-use, mixed-income community, featuring open spaces and commercial services tailored to enhance the St. John neighborhood. 

Prior to its acquisition by the City of Austin in 2008, the St. John Site held significant historical importance for the African-American community. Its roots trace back to the 1890s when the St. John Regular Missionary Baptist Association obtained 350 acres north of Austin to establish a freedman community with the St. John Industrial Institute and Orphanage as its anchor. In 2017, the Austin City Council directed staff to collaborate with the St. John community in creating a new community vision, which was officially adopted in 2020.    

"This agreement represents a pivotal step toward realizing our vision for a more inclusive and vibrant St. John community,” stated Sylnovia Holt-Rabb, Director of the Economic Development Department. “The collaboration exemplifies our commitment to creating lasting positive impacts through thoughtful urban development." 

The MDA agreement will bring to fruition a development featuring 526 units, with 50% designated as income-restricted affordable housing. Notably, the project will significantly expand the St. John Pocket Park, creating a larger open space complete with walking trails and a splash pad between St. John and Blackson Avenues. The site's layout was developed in close consultation with the St. John community and the Council-initiated Community Advisory Committee, in alignment with the 2020 community vision. 

Councilmember José “Chito” Vela expressed pride in the collaborative efforts, stating, “I’m proud of the St. John neighbors and city-wide community leaders for making this critical work possible. I can’t wait to celebrate the groundbreaking of this development with all our neighbors and partners early next year. I appreciate the effective partnership between the City, Greystar, and HACA and hope this project serves as a model for future developments.”  

David Walsh, Director of Development at Greystar, shared the company's excitement about reaching this significant milestone, stating, “Greystar is excited to reach this milestone in the redevelopment of the St. John site. We are humbled by the opportunity to help fulfill the community's vision of bringing much-needed affordable housing to the St. John neighborhood. We would like to recognize and thank the St. John community for their thoughtful input that shaped our site plan as well as their support and partnership throughout this process.” 

Construction is slated to commence in 2024, with units becoming available as early as 2026.  

For more information about the St. John Site Redevelopment Project, please visit www.austintexas.gov/department/st-johns.   

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El sitio de St. John está bajo acuerdo de desarrollo  
El acuerdo incluye alojamiento económico, un parque más amplio y un espacio dedicado a la comunidad 

El Departamento de Desarrollo Económico de la Ciudad de Austin se enorgullece en anunciar la exitosa ejecución de un contrato del Acuerdo Principal de Desarrollo (MDA, por sus siglas en inglés) entre la Ciudad de Austin y Greystar Development Central, LLC, en colaboración con la Autoridad de Alojamiento de la Ciudad de Austin (HACA, por sus siglas en inglés). Esta colaboración pretende reurbanizar 19 acres de la ciudad situada en 800 East St. John Avenue (anteriormente 7211 y 7309 North IH-35, Home Depot y el concesionario Chrysler) para convertirla en una comunidad vibrante de uso y renta mixtos, con espacios abiertos y servicios comerciales adaptados para mejorar el vecindario de St. John. 

Antes de la adquisición de la Ciudad de Austin en el 2008, el sitio St. John tenía una importancia histórica significativa para la comunidad afroamericana. Sus raíces se remontan a la década de 1890 cuando la St. John Regular Missionary Baptist Association obtuvo 350 acres al norte de Austin para establecer una comunidad con el Instituto Industrial y Orfanato St. John como su pilar. En el 2017, el Consejo Municipal de Austin le instruyó a su personal que colaborara con la comunidad St. John para crear una nueva visión comunitaria, que se adoptó oficialmente en el 2020.   

"Este acuerdo representa un paso fundamental hacia la realización de nuestra visión de una comunidad de St. John más inclusiva y vibrante", declaró Sylnovia Holt-Rabb, Directora del Departamento de Desarrollo Económico. "Esta colaboración demuestra nuestro compromiso con la creación de impactos positivos duraderos a través de un desarrollo urbano razonable". 

El acuerdo hará realidad un complejo de 526 viviendas, el 50% de las cuales serán viviendas económicas con restricción de ingresos. En particular, el proyecto ampliará el parque St. John Pocket, creando un espacio abierto más grande completo con sendas para caminar y un patio de salpicaduras entre las avenidas St. John y Blackson. La planificación del sitio se desarrolló en consulta con la comunidad de St. John y el Comité Consultivo Comunitario creado por el ayuntamiento de Austin, en alineación con la visión de la comunidad del 2020. 

El concejal José "Chito" Vela expresó su orgullo por los esfuerzos de colaboración y declaró: "Estoy orgulloso de los vecinos de St. John y de los líderes comunitarios de toda la ciudad por haber hecho posible este trabajo fundamental. No puedo esperar para celebrar la construcción de esta urbanización con todos nuestros vecinos y socios a principios del próximo año. Aprecio la colaboración entre la Ciudad, Greystar, y HACA y espero que este proyecto sirva como modelo para futuros desarrollos."  

David Walsh, Director de Urbanización de Greystar, compartió el entusiasmo de la empresa por alcanzar este importante éxito: "Greystar está entusiasmada por alcanzar este objetivo en la reurbanización del sitio de St. John. Nos sentimos honrados por la oportunidad de ayudar a hacer realidad la visión de la comunidad de aportar las necesarias viviendas económicas al vecindario de St. John. Nos gustaría reconocer y agradecer a la comunidad St. John por su contribución que dio forma a nuestro plan, así como su apoyo y colaboración durante todo este proceso." 

La construcción comenzará en el 2024 y las viviendas estarán disponibles a partir del 2026. 

Si desea más información sobre el Proyecto de Redesarrollo urbano del sitio St. John, visite www.austintexas.gov/department/st-johns.  

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About the City of Austin Economic Development Department  
The City of Austin Economic Development Department supports business growth, creative industries, and local communities. These programs build an equitable, sustainable economy to improve the lives of all Austin residents. To learn more about helpful resources, visit www.austintexas.gov/edd and subscribe to our newsletter. Connect with us @AustinEconDev on Facebook, @AustinEconDev on X, and @AustinEconDev on YouTube. 

Información sobre del Departamento de Desarrollo Económico de la Ciudad de Austin 
El Departamento de Desarrollo Económico de la Ciudad de Austin fomenta el crecimiento empresarial, las industrias creativas y las comunidades locales. Estos programas construyen una economía equitativa y sostenible que enriquecen las vidas de los habitantes de Austin. Para obtener más información acerca de recursos útiles, visite www.austintexas.gov/edd y suscríbase a nuestro boletín. Conéctese con nosotros en @AustinEconDev en Facebook y @AustinEconDev en X y @AustinEconDev en YouTube. 

Greystar Real Estate Partners, LLC
Greystar Real Estate Partners, LLC (“Greystar”) is a global leader in the investment, development, and management of real estate, including rental housing, logistics, and life sciences. Greystar’s Austin office is proud to partner with the City of Austin, HACA, Cortez Consulting, Lemmo Architecture and Design, Manhard Consulting, Meeks + Partners, and TBG Partners to bring this project to our neighbors in the St. John community.

Housing Authority of the City of Austin
As a High Performing Housing Authority that assists more than 18,000 Austinites, the Housing Authority of the City of Austin (HACA) owns and operates nearly 1,900 units of conventional public housing in 21 developments throughout Austin. Development sites range from high-rise apartments on Lady Bird Lake to small duplexes in residential neighborhoods. HACA also manages the Housing Choice Voucher/Section 8 Program that provides rental vouchers for more than 5,000 units of housing in Austin's private rental market.   

Make Gingerbread History Heroes This Holiday Season

The City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department’s Brush Square Museums will be distributing salt dough gingerbread cookie ornaments and a variety of decorating supplies to participating historic sites all around Austin as part of our fourth annual Gingerbread History Heroes program.

Gingerbread History Heroes ornaments will be available at participating sites from December 1 through 31. Participants are invited to decorate an ornament as their favorite figure from Texas history. Past examples include Elisabet Ney, Lydia Mendoza, and Sam Houston! The program is free of charge for all participants.

Keep an eye out for Gingerbread History Heroes at your favorite museums and cultural centers this December! Participating sites include:

• Brush Square Museums (O. Henry Museum and Susanna Dickinson Museum)
• Asian American Resource Center
• Elisabet Ney Museum
• French Legation State Historic Site
• George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center
• Oakwood Cemetery Chapel
• Old Bakery and Emporium
• Park Ranger Station at Zilker Caretaker Cottage

City of Austin Thanksgiving Closures 2023

City of Austin Offices, Facilities to Close for Thanksgiving 2023
City of Austin administrative offices and other municipal facilities will be closed Thursday and Friday, Nov. 23-24 in observance of Thanksgiving.

Trash, Recycling and Composting Collections
Trash, recycling and composting collections for Thursday and Friday will slide forward one day. Thursday collections will be picked up on Friday and Friday collections will be picked up on Saturday. Download the Austin Recycles App or visit austintexas.gov/myschedule to view your collection schedule. The Recycle and Reuse Drop-off Center will be closed on Thursday, Nov. 23, but is open by appointment only on Friday and Saturday.

Austin Public Health
Environmental Health Services at the Rutherford Lane Campus, the Office of Vital Records all WIC and Shots for Tots clinics, Neighborhood Centers and TB, Sexual Health, and Refugee Clinics will be closed Thanksgiving Day and the following Friday.   

COVID-19 testing is available at private and non-profit sites throughout Austin, including pharmacies, hospitals and urgent care centers. Those who have private insurance can contact their doctor’s office or insurer for assessment and testing options. Additional resources:  

• Department of Health and Human Services community-based testing portal  
• COVID.gov testing resources 

Visit Vaccines.gov (Vacunas.gov in Spanish) to find flu and COVID-19 vaccine providers near you.

Parks and Recreation Facilities Schedules
Austin Parks and Recreation holiday hours vary based on facility so please call ahead or check AustinTexas.gov/Parks before you go. Most facilities including museums and cultural centers, recreation centers, and senior centers will close at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 22 and remain closed through Thursday, Nov. 23 and Friday, Nov. 24 for the Thanksgiving holiday. Tennis Centers will be closed on Thanksgiving Day only. Golf courses will be open on Thanksgiving Day until 1 p.m. All Aquatic Facilities will be closed on Thanksgiving Day except Barton Springs Pool which will operate unguarded. For pool hours over the holiday weekend visit AustinTexas.gov/Pools.

Austin Public Library Schedule
All Austin Public Library locations will be closed Thursday, Nov. 23, and Friday, Nov. 24. Library resources available remotely can be accessed at the Austin Public Library Website: library.austintexas.gov.

Austin Animal Center Schedule
The Austin Animal Center will be closed on Thanksgiving Day and will resume normal hours Friday, Nov. 24.

City of Austin Utilities Schedule
The City of Austin Utilities Customer Care Call Center will be closed on Thursday, Nov. 23 through Saturday, Nov. 25. Additionally, all City of Austin Utility Customer Service Centers will be closed on Thursday, Nov. 23 and Friday, Nov. 24. Customers can make utility payments at coautilities.com or by calling 1-833-375-4919 for a Quick Payment. 

In the event of an outage, please contact us at 512-322-9100 and follow the prompts. A customer service representative will be available 24 hours a day over the holiday to assist with any outage concerns.

Additional payment options include: 

• Paying at authorized locations, including most Austin H-E-B, Fiesta Mart, Randall’s and Walmart stores 
• Mailing money order or check to P.O. BOX 2267, Austin, TX 78783-2267 or using a drop box location  
• Payment drop boxes are located at the North and South Utility Customer Service Centers, 625 East 10th Street and 505 Barton Springs Rd. Expect 3-5 business days for drop-off payments to process. The payment drop box at the East Branch inside Rosewood-Zaragosa is NOT available at this time. 

For questions about city services or information call 3-1-1. You can also submit service requests from the Austin 3-1-1 mobile app

City Manager Announces Creation of Homeless Strategy Office

 

The Homeless Strategy Division, currently under Austin Public Health, will transition to a stand-alone office reporting directly to the City Manager’s Office.

The City of Austin’s commitment to making homelessness rare, brief and non-recurring was strengthened this week as Interim City Manager Jesús Garza announced the creation of a stand-alone office dedicated to this important effort.  Garza shared the news in a memo to Mayor Kirk Watson and Austin City Council members on Monday.  In June, Garza initiated a homeless strategy special assignment to focus on the broad spectrum of programs, policies, and funding the City utilizes in support of addressing homelessness in the Austin community. In his memo, he shared with Mayor and Council that a significant finding of the assignment is that the City’s current organizational structure does not effectively respond to this critical priority.  “While the Homeless Strategy Division was embedded within one department, the initiatives to address homelessness span multiple departments and require focused coordination,” Garza said. “Consequently, I am establishing a stand-alone Homeless Strategy Office (HSO) to serve as a focal point for addressing homelessness comprehensively, strategically, and compassionately.”  The reorganization will be effective December 4, 2023. David Gray will lead the Office as the Homeless Strategy Officer, promoting him from the Interim role he has held since September.   The primary responsibilities of the Homeless Strategy Office will include:   Procuring, managing, and monitoring homelessness-related contracts between the City and third-party vendors.   Overseeing operations at City-run and City-owned homeless shelters.   Collaborating with City agencies and community organizations in efforts to expand the availability of housing across the continuum of need, including emergency shelters, rapid rehousing, permanent supportive housing.   Overseeing and approving plans for public space management, including outreach, clean-up, and compassionate encampment closures.    Working with the Communications and Public Information Office to help manage communications regarding the City’s approach to assisting individuals with resolving their homelessness.   Working with the Intergovernmental Relations Office to manage relationships between the City and local, state, and federal agencies and officials.  Collaborating with Austin/Travis County's Homelessness Response System partners to uphold best practices, policies, and procedures for organizations that serve unhoused people in our community.   Engaging with local businesses and philanthropic entities to broaden the funding base for homeless response services.   The Homeless Strategy Office will also help facilitate an upcoming joint independent assessment to review not only the homeless services provided by the City, but also those provided by partners in this endeavor, including Central Health, Integral Care, Travis County, and the Dell Medical School at The University of Texas in Austin.  “As a City, our goal is to set the standard for innovative and strategic approaches to addressing homelessness and strengthening partnerships with the broad base of stakeholders who care about and invest in this issue,” Gray said. “Creating this stand-alone office and positioning it to marshal resources from many fronts is a strong indicator of the commitment and dedication of city leaders to helping people experiencing homelessness and to provide them with hope and help when they need it most.”

City's Housing Department Seeks Public Feedback on Performance of Federally Funded Programming

La versión en español sigue a continuación. 

AUSTIN, TX - Each year, the City of Austin receives federal funding through four grants administered by the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD). In FY 22-23, these grant allocations totaled approximately $14 million that funded a variety of programs that were administered by the Housing Department, Austin Public Health, and the Economic Development Department." Beginning Monday, November 20, and running through Tuesday, December 20, a public comment period will open to receive public comments on the City’s Draft FY 2022-23 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER), which evaluates annual performance and activity of federally funded programming. 

The Housing Department receives grant entitlement funds annually from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for affordable housing, community development, economic development, and public services. An Action Plan is developed each year to guide the implementation of those dollars received through the four grants: 

• $7,362,354 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), administered by the Housing Department, Austin Public Health, and the Economic Development Department, funded childcare services, senior services, mental health services, affordable rental housing development assistance, affordable ownership housing development assistance, home repair programs, and tenants’ rights assistance.  
• $3,601,868 HOME Investment Partnership Program, administered by the Housing Department, funded tenant-based rental assistance and down payment assistance, as well as funding for Community Housing Development Organizations (CHDOs). 
• $658,196 Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG), administered by Austin Public Health, funded rapid rehousing programming for people experiencing homelessness, as well as shelter operation and maintenance funding. 
• $2,670,278 Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA), administered by Austin Public Heath, funded housing and supportive services for low- and moderate-income individuals living with HIV/AIDS. 

Cities that receive this HUD funding are required to develop a CAPER annually to assess the City’s performance during the FY 2022-23 Action Plan, plus achievement of its overall strategies, objectives, and priorities outlined in the FY 2019-24 Consolidated Plan. 

Residents are invited to review the Draft FY 2022-23 CAPER and share feedback at www.SpeakUpAustin.org/CAPER. Public comment will remain open from November 20 – December 5.  

Additionally, the CAPER will be available in-print for review at the following community locations: 

• Austin City Hall, 301 W 2nd Street (Central) 
• Austin Central Public Library, 710 West Cesar Chavez Street (Central) 
• Austin Resource Center for the Homeless, 500 East 7th Street (Central) 
• St. John's Library Branch, 7500 Blessing Avenue (North East) 
• Housing Authority of the City of Austin, 1124 S IH 35 (South) 
   

Additional Ways to Comment  
Comments may be submitted until 5 p.m. on Tuesday, December 5. The City will gather feedback and submit this report to HUD before December 29, 2023.  

Please include a name, address, and phone number when submitting comments:   

• Mail to: Housing Department Attn: FY 2021-22 CAPER P.O. Box 1088 Austin, Texas 78767   
• Email: Housing@austintexas.gov  
• Phone: Call the Housing Department Office at 512-974-3100 (voice) 

The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please call 512-974-3100; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. 

FY24-29 Consolidated Plan 
The Housing Department is already planning for the upcoming fiscal year, which is its final year under the 5-year strategic plan, the FY 19-24 Consolidated Plan. Staff will conduct a Community Needs Assessment to gather public opinions on how to use federal funding for the Housing Department's next 5-year strategic plan, the FY 24-29 Consolidated Plan. 

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El Departamento de Vivienda de la Ciudad busca comentarios públicos sobre el rendimiento de los Programas Financiados Federalmente 

AUSTIN, TX - Cada año, la Ciudad de Austin recibe financiamiento federal a través de cuatro subvenciones administradas por el Departamento de Vivienda y Desarrollo Urbano de los Estados Unidos (HUD). En el Año Fiscal 22-23 aproximadamente $14 millones de dólares en fondos federales financiaron cuatro programas administrados por el Departamento de Vivienda, Salud Pública de Austin y el Departamento de Desarrollo Económico. A partir del lunes 20 de noviembre al martes 20 de diciembre, se abrirá un período de comentarios públicos para recibir opiniones sobre el Borrador del Informe Anual Consolidado de Rendimiento y Evaluación (CAPER) del Año Fiscal 2022-23 de la Ciudad, que evalúa la efectividad de esos programas.  

El Departamento de Vivienda recibe anualmente fondos de asignación de subvenciones del Departamento de Vivienda y Desarrollo Urbano de los Estados Unidos (HUD) para viviendas asequibles, desarrollo comunitario, desarrollo económico y servicios públicos. Cada año se desarrolla un Plan de Acción para guiar la implementación de esos fondos a través de cuatro programas: 

• $7,362,354 en Subvenciones para el Desarrollo Comunitario (CDBG), administradas por el Departamento de Vivienda, Salud Pública de Austin y el Departamento de Desarrollo Económico, financiaron servicios de cuidado infantil, servicios para personas mayores, servicios de salud mental, asistencia para el desarrollo de viviendas asequibles, reparaciones de viviendas y asistencia en derechos de inquilinos.  
• $3,601,868 en el Programa HOME de Asociación para la Inversión en Vivienda, administrado por el Departamento de Vivienda, financió asistencia en alquiler para inquilinos, asistencia para el pago inicial y financiamiento para Organizaciones de Desarrollo de Viviendas Comunitarias (CHDOs). 
• $658,196 en la Subvención para Soluciones de Emergencia (ESG), administrada por Salud Pública de Austin, financió programas de reubicación rápida para personas sin hogar, así como la operación y el mantenimiento de refugios. 
• $2,670,278 en Oportunidades de Vivienda para Personas con SIDA (HOPWA), administrado por Salud Pública de Austin, financió viviendas y servicios de apoyo para personas de bajos y moderados ingresos que viven con el VIH/SIDA. 

Las ciudades que reciben estos fondos del HUD están obligadas a desarrollar un CAPER anualmente para evaluar el progreso de la ciudad y la efectividad de su desempeño durante el Plan de Acción del Año Fiscal 2022-23, además del logro de sus estrategias generales, objetivos y prioridades delineados en el Plan Consolidado del Año Fiscal 2019-24. 

Los residentes están invitados a revisar el Borrador del CAPER del Año Fiscal 2022-23 y compartir comentarios en www.SpeakUpAustin.org/CAPER_ESP. El período de comentarios públicos permanecerá abierto desde el 20 de noviembre hasta el 5 de diciembre.  

 Además, el CAPER estará disponible en formato impreso para su revisión en las siguientes ubicaciones comunitarias: 

• Ayuntamiento de la Ciudad de Austin, 301 W 2nd Street (Centro) 
• Biblioteca Pública Central de Austin, 710 West Cesar Chavez Street (Centro) 
• Centro de Recursos de Austin para Personas sin Hogar (ARCH), 500 East 7th Street (Centro) 
• Sucursal de la Biblioteca St. John's, 7500 Blessing Avenue (Noreste) 
• Autoridad de Vivienda de la Ciudad de Austin, 1124 S IH 35 (Sur) 

Formas Adicionales de Comentar 
Los comentarios escritos se pueden enviar hasta las 5 p.m. del martes 5 de diciembre. La Ciudad recopilará comentarios y presentará este informe al HUD antes del 29 de diciembre de 2023. 

Por favor, incluya nombre, dirección y número de teléfono al enviar comentarios escritos:   

• Por correo: Housing Department Attn: FY 2021-22 CAPER P.O. Box 1088 Austin, Texas 78767   
• Correo electrónico: Housing@austintexas.gov  
• Teléfono: Llame a la Oficina del Departamento de Vivienda al 512-974-3100 (voz) 

La Ciudad de Austin está comprometida con el cumplimiento de la Ley de Estadounidenses con Discapacidades. Se proporcionarán modificaciones razonables y acceso igualitario a las comunicaciones a pedido. Para obtener ayuda, llame al 512-974-3100; los usuarios de TTY se comunican a través de Relay Texas al 711. 

Plan Consolidado los Años Fiscales 2024-29 
El Departamento de Vivienda ya está planificando para el próximo año fiscal, que es el último año de su plan estratégico quinquenal, el Plan Consolidado los Años Fiscales 2019-24. El personal llevará a cabo una Evaluación de Necesidades de la Comunidad para recopilar opiniones públicas sobre cómo utilizar los fondos federales para el próximo plan estratégico quinquenal del Departamento de Vivienda, el Plan Consolidado los Años Fiscales 2024-29. 

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About the City of Austin Housing Department 
The City of Austin Housing Department provides equitable and comprehensive housing, community development, and displacement prevention to enhance the quality of life of all Austinites. To access affordable housing and community resources, visit www.austintexas.gov/housing. 

Acerca del Departamento de Vivienda de la Ciudad de Austin 
El Departamento de Vivienda de la Ciudad de Austin provee vivienda equitativa e integral, desarrollo comunitario y prevención de desplazamiento para mejorar la calidad de vida de todos los austinianos. Para acceder a recursos comunitarios y de vivienda económica, visite www.austintexas.gov/housing. 

Meetings: Bicycle Advisory Council and Pedestrian Advisory Council

 

Calendar Corner: Nov. 21-Dec. 4, 2023

Bicycle Advisory Council and Pedestrian Advisory Council The Bicycle Advisory Council advises the City of Austin and other jurisdictions on all matters relating to the use of the bicycle. The Pedestrian Advisory Council advises the City of Austin and other jurisdictions on all matters relating to walking. Date: Monday, Dec. 4, 2023 Time: 6 p.m. View: Agenda | Watch live meeting | Austin Transportation and Public Works, 901 S MoPac, Plaza V Suite 300

Movability is asking for your input on community transportation, November 2023

 

Movability, Central Texas' transportation management association, are conducting a community survey regarding travel patterns. The feedback from this survey will be used to enhance the transportation system in Hays, Travis and Williamson Counties. If you've received this survey, complete it so you can be entered into a drawing for an opportunity to win a $500 pre-paid VISA gift card. The survey will take approximately 10 minutes to complete. The input will aid the region in making transportation decisions that will positively affect the quality of life for community members. The survey will remain open through approximately the end of November.  If you didn't receive the survey but want to weigh in and be entered for the gift card drawing, visit the Movability survey webpage.

Two events this week could impact downtown traffic : Turkey Trot and Zilker Holiday Tree Lighting 2023

 

On Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 23, runners, walkers and racers in wheelchairs will burn off some pre-meal calories at the ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot, benefiting Caritas of Austin.  From 5 a.m. to 1 p.m., expect closures on the following roads: South First Street between Barton Springs Road and Cesar Chavez Street Colorado Street south of Fifth Street Lavaca Street West 15th Street Enfield Road east of MoPac Newfield Lane south of Enfield Road The ramp to Enfield Road and the MoPac eastbound ramp to Cesar Chavez Street West Cesar Chavez Street West Riverside Drive (from South Lamar Boulevard to Barton Springs Road)  Public transit is available to reach the starting area at Vic Mathias Shores — use the CapMetro Trip Planner to find your route. For those wishing to drive, free parking for the Turkey Trot is available — visit the event's website to find out the locations. The lighting of the Zilker Holiday Tree – actually the 155-foot tall Zilker Park moontower decorated with 39 streamers containing a total of 3,309 lights – is an Austin tradition going back to 1967, when it was first lit by Mayor Pro Tem Emma Long.  This year’s event takes place on Nov. 26, from 6-7 p.m. No road closures are anticipated, but traffic delays are likely. Carpooling or riding CapMetro is encouraged. Parking is free at the Polo Field on the south side of Zilker Park or at the Stratford Rock area north of Barton Springs Road, but it is first-come first-served with no guarantee of availability.

Demographic Story Map: Austin's Housing Landscape Undergoes Unprecedented Transformation

 

City of Austin Releases New Demographic Story Map Focusing on a Decade of Housing Changes

The City of Austin has experienced an extraordinary decade of growth with unprecedented numbers in housing unit additions between 2010 and 2020. The Demography Division in the City’s Planning Department is releasing a new Demographic Story Map, analyzing the housing landscape in Austin, its growth between 2010 and 2020, and how this growth compares to other trends across the country.    Some of the key findings include:   Unprecedented Numbers: Over 90,000 housing units were added between 2010 and 2020 period, surpassing most major U.S. cities.  Changing Dynamics: The rate of growth in unit production declined from 2000 and 2010 levels.   Evolving Landscape: Due to a faster rate of growth in units in the metro area and a stable share of units contributed to the region by Austin, the overall housing share of Austin housing in the metro region has been shrinking.  Additional Rental Units: As Austin adds new units, the housing stock increasingly consists of more rental units rather than ownership units.  Rate of Growth Austin had the fastest household growth, or growth in occupied housing units, of all large U.S. cities and select peer cities to Austin.  Household vs. Unit Growth: Between 2010 and 2020, household growth in Austin outpaced growth in total housing units and growth in the total population.   This report is part of a series. The next report will explore what is behind Austin’s rapid household growth as we look at the composition and characteristics of Austin’s households. You can find other demographic products and analysis from the City of Austin Demographics Division at austintexas.gov/demographics.   ###    About the City of Austin Planning Department  The City of Austin Planning Department provides equitable and people-centered planning services to shape an Austin where everyone can thrive.

Prepare Your Home to Stay Safe & Sound This Season

The autumn weather is a welcome relief following this year’s difficult summer conditions. The Development Services Department (DSD) Code Compliance team wants to make sure the season is also Safe & Sound for everyone in our community.   The cooler temperatures trigger home heating systems. Ensure that furnaces and boilers are working properly and that your residence has functioning smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. The Austin Fire Department has a free smoke alarm hotline for homeowners and offers carbon monoxide poisoning prevention tips.   Attending to the yard and right-of-way outside your home is another important way to prevent fires. Clear the area of fallen leaves, trash, oily rags and other combustible material. Austin Resource Recovery provides a range of residential services to help keep your property safe and clean and Code Compliance maintains a list of licensed private haulers.   If you experience a fire in your home Code Compliance is notified and will send an investigator to assess the damage and ensure the residence is appropriately secured until the structure is repaired to code standards or demolished. The Development Services Department provides guidance on permits for emergency repairs, including fire and water damage.    Central Texas has experienced unprecedented winter weather events in recent years. These drastic conditions highlight the need to proactively identify and correct substandard housing and dangerous structures. Substandard housing poses a risk to the health and physical wellbeing of occupants. These risks may stem from deficient plumbing, a faulty electrical system, inadequate weather protection or other code violations. Report suspected code violations to Austin 3-1-1.    Find more seasonal safety tips on the Code Compliance Safe & Sound webpage.   Prepara su hogar para estar seguro y protegido esta temporada  El clima otoñal es un alivio bienvenido después de las condiciones difíciles del verano de este año. El equipo de Cumplimiento de Códigos del Departamento de Servicios de Desarrollo (DSD) quiere asegurarse de que la temporada sea segura para todos en nuestra comunidad.  Las temperaturas más frescas activan los sistemas de calefacción del hogar. Asegúrese de que las calderas y calentadores funcionen correctamente y de que su residencia cuente con detectores de humo y monóxido de carbono en buen estado. El Departamento de Bomberos de Austin tiene una línea directa gratuita para alarmas de humo para propietarios de viviendas y ofrece consejos de prevención de envenenamiento por monóxido de carbono.  Atender el patio y el derecho de paso fuera de su hogar es otra forma importante de prevenir incendios. Limpia el área de hojas caídas, basura, trapos aceitosos y otros materiales combustibles. Austin Resource Recovery ofrece una variedad de servicios residenciales para ayudar a mantener su propiedad segura y limpia, y Cumplimiento de Códigos mantiene una lista de transportistas privados con licencia.  Si experimentas un incendio en su hogar, Cumplimiento de Códigos será notificado y enviará a un investigador para evaluar los daños y asegurarse de que la residencia esté adecuadamente protegida hasta que la estructura sea reparada de acuerdo con los estándares del código o demolida. El Departamento de Servicios de Desarrollo proporciona orientación sobre permisos para reparaciones de emergencia, incluidos los daños causados por incendios e inundaciones.  El centro de Texas ha experimentado eventos climáticos invernales sin precedentes en los últimos años. Estas condiciones drásticas resaltan la necesidad de identificar y corregir de manera proactiva viviendas de baja calidad y estructuras peligrosas. Las viviendas de baja calidad representan un riesgo para la salud y el bienestar físico de los ocupantes. Estos riesgos pueden derivar de la plomería deficiente, un sistema eléctrico defectuoso, una protección contra el clima inadecuada u otras violaciones del código. Informa sobre posibles infracciones del código llamando al Austin 3-1-1.  Encuentra más consejos de seguridad estacional en la página web "Safe & Sound" de Cumplimiento de Códigos.

Austin City Council Calls for Central Health Board of Managers Applications

The Austin City Council seeks applications from qualified individuals to serve on the nine-member Board of Managers of Central Health. The opening is to fill a new term that will run from January 2024 through December 31, 2027. 
 
Application will remain open until vacancy is filled.
These nine appointees serve as the Board of Managers and organize, plan and supervise Central Health. The Commissioners Court approves the budget adopted by the Central Health Board of Managers and sets its associated tax rate. The Commissioners Court also retains broad oversight of the District’s operations.
 
The District was created to improve healthcare delivery and access to underserved residents of Travis County and is intended to promote transparency and accountability to the public in the provision of health care. Information regarding the District’s calendar, scheduled meetings and minutes of past meetings is available at https://www.centralhealth.net/about-central-health/board-of-managers/
 
The minimum time commitment required is 10 – 15 hours per month but may exceed that due to other events in which Managers are asked to participate. Most meetings are held in the evening, although Central Health and community-related events may be equally divided between daytime and evening hours. In addition to service on the Board, Managers will be assigned to subcommittees.
 
Experience as a health care provider is not a necessary requirement for service but understanding of the current health care system and a commitment to improving the patient experience is preferred. Central Health’s mission is simple and vital: to create access to healthcare for those who need it most. Rather than directly providing health care services, Central Health has developed a unique approach of contracting with a variety of providers to meet the health care needs of low-income and uninsured people of Austin and Travis County. In 2012, Travis County voters approved a tax increase to allow Central Health to redesign and transform health care delivery in Central Texas, which includes opening the new Dell Medical School at the University of Texas at Austin.
 
The City Council is looking for the following qualities and preferred experience in health care finance and accounting in its appointee to the Central Health Board of Managers:

• Commitment to the Mission and Values of Central Health
• Resident of Austin with experience serving on boards of directors or in senior management positions;
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in finance and accounting, financial conflicts of interest in an environment to ensure financial transparency to tax payers;
• Demonstrated leadership experience requiring strategic planning, execution, and maintenance of successful business operations;
• Knowledge of the issues and components related to the ‘safety net’ health system and the delivery of services to vulnerable populations;
• Mature and seasoned community leader and advocate, with knowledge of community, social, and health/medical services,  private business, government, or law;
• Demonstrated experience in community engagement/involvement, particularly in the area of persons accessing health services;
• Understanding of multiple cultures and ethnicities with experience in removing barriers to health care services access for these individuals;  
• Knowledge of Central Health’s partners and how services are delivered by them in collaboration with Central Health.

 The following persons may not be appointed to the Board:

• Employees, officers or board members of any entity that receives funds from the Travis County Healthcare District.
• Employees, officers or board members of any hospital including Dell Medical School and Seton Healthcare Family.
• Employees of Central Health.
• Persons who receive or whose employer receives in excess of 10 percent of its income from an entity that receives payment directly from Central Health.
• No attorney, certified public accountant or other person who receives or whose employer receives in excess of 10 percent of its income from an entity that receives payment directly from the Central Health shall be a member of the Board.

Application Process

Interested applicants may complete a City of Austin Boards and Commissions application online at https://austintexas.granicus.com/boards/forms/385/apply. Applicants are also requested to submit a resume describing their qualifications and a Statement of Intent expressing why they wish to serve on the Healthcare District Board.
 
The applications will be reviewed and, if selected, interviews will be scheduled during the scheduled meeting of the Austin City Council Public Health Committee. If recommended by the Committee, the nomination will be considered by the full Council during the following Council Meeting. If selected, the individual will be required to complete a financial disclosure form.

Tarrytown Neighborhood Park Playscape Ribbon Cutting, 12/5/2023

Join the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department on Tuesday, December 5 at 10 a.m. for a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the Tarrytown Neighborhood Park Playscape replacement at 2106 Tower Dr. This is an outdoor park event. Dress comfortably.

Tarrytown Park is a beloved park space for the surrounding neighborhood. The project team inventoried the existing playground features, requested feedback from park users, and developed a plan for the playground replacement that aligns with the neighborhood’s preferences and park standards.

The new playscape includes a new tunnel tube and shade canopy for the 2–5-year-old playscape, overhead climbers for the 5–12-year-old playscape, and new sensory play equipment. Improvements were also made to bring all existing and proposed amenities into ADA compliance. Learn more on the Tarrytown Neighborhood Park Playscape Replacement project page.