The landscape of South Congress Avenue and Riverside Drive is in for a major transformation if a new planned unit development (PUD) takes root, potentially introducing a skyline-defining tower measuring over 500 feet. Details of the project were laid out during a City Council work session on Tuesday, the Austin Monitor reported.
Zoning Officer Joi Harden painted a picture of the massive mixed-use development, which could include roughly 800 residential units and a 225-unit hotel. On top of those, plans are for 200,000 square feet of office space and over 100,000 square feet dedicated to retail and restaurant facilities, including a 25,000-square-foot grocery store. The development can stock up on parking with a subterranean structure. Locations mentioned for the redevelopment include iconic spots like the old karaoke bar Ego’s at 500 and 510 S. Congress Ave., as well as properties on Riverside Drive and Haywood Ave.
PUD applicants need to undergo a thorough development assessment prior to filing for zoning changes, which is exactly what Harden was reviewing. According to the Austin Monitor, the project falls within the South Central Waterfront District, with city staff working on revisions, one of which would do away with height restrictions in the area.
Richard Suttle, an attorney representing the applicant, has been quoted claiming the city's changing attitude towards the South Central plan. This shift comes largely due to planned rail stations nearby that, according to Suttle, would benefit from such density and vice versa. "It’s a beautiful relationship," he told the Austin Monitor. Moreover, Suttle banked on the continued public support for rail infrastructure, even if current plans faced legal hurdles.
In conversations surrounding affordable housing requirements stipulated by the city, Suttle mentioned multiple solutions were in consideration, aiming to maximize unit availability within the development. District 9 Council Member Zo Qadri hailed the project for its potential, also inquiring about concessions for local businesses. Mike Iannacone of Related Companies responded with plans to reserve an initial 5,000 square feet of affordable commercial lease space for 25 years.
Further sweetening the proposal, developers have outlined initiatives in line with environmental sustainability – pledges include installing electric vehicle charging stations and enhancing pedestrian connectivity with features like an elevated boardwalk. Aimed at promoting ecological improvements, the development proposes to reduce the Critical Water Quality Zone's impervious cover, as well as incorporate various green initiatives for managing water quality on-site.
Yet, the ambitious project isn't without its electrical challenges; an Austin Energy review highlighted that the current substation serving the area is over its capacity limits and that without the construction of a new one, the site cannot be served as is. This snippet of information was shared by the Austin Monitor, which also noted its funding by community donations and commitment to editorial transparency.
