Round Rock citizens are invited to contribute their voices regarding the city's downtown mixed-use zoning districts at a public open house scheduled for Tuesday, October 29. In response to significant population growth and changing community needs, City officials are considering updates, which include revisiting building height restrictions, reported Round Rock's official news outlet.
The public's input appears as a crucial component of the city's planning process. Since embarking on a journey to revitalize Downtown Round Rock in 2007, after the City Council set it as a strategic priority, an array of infrastructure projects surpassing $228 million has transformed the cityscape. Round Rock’s population, which stood at 99,887 in 2010, has burgeoned to over 136,000 as of October 2024, awakening a need for reevaluation of existing space utilization and zoning regulations.
Historic preservation remains at the forefront of these considerations. A swath of Downtown Round Rock is recognized for its 24 historic structures within the National Register District along East Main Street, plus an additional 31 landmarked properties. Residents and businesses alike agree that the area's historic charm contributes to its appeal. The City respects the delicate balance between maintaining this charm and enabling contemporary development.
A recent survey of downtown businesses documented a deep appreciation for the locale's accessibility to amenities and services, its historic allure, and its pedestrian-friendly atmosphere. "Attitudes toward taller buildings were split, with 69% of respondents supporting increased density for economic development, pedestrian activity, and diverse uses," the Round Rock news release detailed. However, 31% signaled apprehensions over potential impacts on traffic and the city's "small town" ambiance. Community feedback has been, and continues to be, a linchpin in shaping the city’s trajectory.
Concerns about parking scarcity and traffic flow in Downtown Round Rock have also been voiced in the city's biennial community survey, alongside a call for more diverse business establishments that mirror the city's unique character. Public safety, cleanliness, and pedestrian as well as cyclist accommodations were highlighted as areas for improvement. The October 29th open house will be an informal, come-and-go event held at the Round Rock Public Library, providing an opportunity for residents to share their thoughts on potential zoning changes in an inclusive forum.
Any zoning amendments emanating from these discussions are expected to pass through the Planning and Zoning Commission during a public meeting, before proceeding to the City Council for final deliberation and, potentially, approval. Round Rock's proactive approach in urban planning seeks to harmonize growth with community values, striving to forge a forward-looking yet heritage-respecting Downtown identity.
