Briefing on the status and timeline of Austin Planning initiatives. [Chris Ryerson, Division Manager-Austin Planning].

Summary

This briefing provides an update on several key Austin Planning initiatives:

• Imagine Austin Update: A 30-year plan to guide city development is being updated. Key goals include developing a Place Types map, increasing community engagement, updating policies, and aligning with other strategic plans. Phase 1 deliverables are expected in Q1 and Q2 of 2026.
• Northeast District Plan: A collaborative plan with Travis County to address historic inequities in a 30-square-mile area. A staff Working Group has been formed, and the Summary Report of Existing Conditions was delivered in January 2026. Next steps include forming a Community Advisory Committee and selecting an engagement consultant in 2026.
• Central City District Plan: An update to the Downtown Austin Plan, incorporating the South Central Waterfront and UT/UNO areas. The goal is to develop a Vision and Implementation Plan by December 2026, with community engagement and analysis ongoing.
• Great Streets Plan and Standards Update: An update to the program that influences downtown streetscape elements. An existing conditions analysis has been completed, and community engagement (online survey, open house) occurred from July 2025 to January 2026. Emerging themes include "People first," "Vibrant public life," and "Shade and comfort." The update schedule runs through Fall 2026.
• East Riverside Corridor Planning Initiative: This initiative aligns the existing vision and regulating plans with the city's Equitable Transit-Oriented Development (ETOD) initiative. Goals include integrating equity, promoting economic opportunity, and updating the Future Land Use Map. Community participation is encouraged through various channels.

Citizen Impact

These planning initiatives will shape the future development, infrastructure, and community needs of Austin. Residents can participate in shaping these plans through ongoing community engagement opportunities, influencing neighborhood development, public spaces, and equitable growth strategies.

Confidence

high