Introduction

District Planning

District planning brings a focused lens to specific community needs while following the overarching priorities set by the Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan and city-wide initiatives. It bridges comprehensive planning, city-wide initiatives, downtown initiatives, and the transformative projects already happening across the city.

District planning is an efficient and inclusive way to plan for all areas of the city, including those that have received planning in the past and those that have not. Planning at this scale will allow for better use of City resources, such as Capital Improvement Projects (CIPs), by helping prioritize initiatives aimed at creating complete communities throughout the city.

Below is a diagram depicting the relationship among these interconnected planning initiatives.

Central City District Plan

The City Council resolution for the Downtown Austin Plan update called for a new 10-year blueprint that provides a renewed vision for Downtown. We’re expanding that vision to include adjacent areas with similar character and context:

• The South Central Waterfront

• Downtown

• The University Area

The Central City District Plan is more than just a plan: It serves as a vital connector for existing plans, projects, and initiatives. It bridges comprehensive planning, Citywide initiatives, Downtown initiatives, and the transformative work happening under Project Connect and Equitable Transit-Oriented Development.

We’re inviting community members and stakeholders to help shape the future of three of Austin’s most iconic areas. Together, we’ll build a shared vision that reflects our values and aspirations.

The Opportunity

To ensure a more equitable, sustainable, and resilient future in Austin, we must rethink how we plan for growth in the city’s urban core. Around the world, downtowns are thriving not just through work and play, but by embracing livability, inclusivity, and access to services.

District Planning Areas

The Central City District planning area is bounded by I-35 to the east, Dean Keeton and 29th Street to the north, Lamar Boulevard to the west, and Bouldin Creek to the south. We’ve included a map below to help familiarize you with the District boundary.

Interactive Map

Zoom in on this interactive map of the area. Check out key locations like libraries, museums, and cultural centers. The boundaries are from Lamar Blvd. to I-35, and Dean Keeton/29th St. to Riverside Dr./Bouldin Creek.

Plan Goals

Community-Minded

We'll work to coordinate with City leaders, organizations, community advocates, and anyone interested to create the plan.

Public Spaces, Parks, and Trails

We’ll explore ways to support inclusive public spaces that foster community and connection by enhancing the city’s signature parks and trails, activating open spaces, and identifying opportunities for programming and stewardship.

Economic Hub

We’ll examine how to continue attracting businesses while retaining existing arts and cultural centers that attract a wide variety of people to Austin’s urban core.

Public Safety

We’ll examine how improved wayfinding, lighting, and accessibility will help all feel welcome. The planning process will also incorporate public health considerations, as well as crime reduction and prevention resources.

Increased Mobility

The Central City District is home to huge local and state investments in public infrastructure, like the reconstruction of I-35, Project Connect transit improvements, and the Convention Center. We will incorporate those changes and build on the momentum they provide.

Resilience

We’ll consider mitigation strategies to lessen the heat island effect and minimize erosion and flooding.

Access and Affordability

To ensure a diverse Central City and to support Austin’s service workforce, we’ll focus on creating an environment that encourages housing diversity and affordability and makes room for services that support a diversity of lifestyles.