Austin hopes to make Airport Blvd. more walkable

Community groups supportive

Steve Hawley, Apr 09, 10.

Austin City Councilman Chris Riley, supported by residents, businesses, and property owners, hopes to change Airport Boulevard from a car-dominated street into a more pedestrian-friendly area, according to Impact News.

The article notes:

Airport Boulevard is marked by automobile use, service stations, car dealerships, county buildings and a mix of local businesses, such as House Pizzeria, McGuire’s Clocks, Quality Seafood Market and I Luv Video. Riley argues it lacks a walkable, pedestrian-friendly environment, and an authentic feel. Additionally, opportunities to improve infrastructure, create trails and linear parks are available.

“As a native Austinite I don’t see this as the kind of place that has a lot of local character,” he said.

Austin’s cityscape has been determined largely by single-use zoning, which encouraged the development of car-focused corridors. But a recent survey conducted as part of the city’s Comprehensive Plan shows that over 50 percent of the community wants new growth to be concentrated around transportation centers.

The article notes that Airport Boulevard contains two commuter rail stops and plenty of room for development. Local neighborhoods have been supportive of the plan to redevelop the area. The Highland Neighborhood Association, for example, is welcoming the idea of mixed-use, high-density development.

Not everyone is as receptive, though. On Wednesday, Riley gave a presentation to the Real Estate Council of Austin, which he says historically has shown strong resistance to such proposals, to try to gain their support.

Councilman Riley’s presentation

(Photo credit: sahmeditor)