Downtown Austin thrives in the midst of unbelievable development and opportunity. In the midst of this growth and development comes continuous controversy. The business district’s historical locations are being lost through the development. At present, not one structure in downtown Austin has been submitted to receive historical protection or landmark status. Also confusing, not one of the local or national historic registers have listed the area, in part or in whole, as a location of value. One instance of upcoming development that should alarm local Austin historians is the latest permit acquired by the Gables Republic Park, a 16 level apartment community. This demolition permit allows the builder to partially demolish the 1913 Nabisco warehouse. Over the last 15 years the site was home for the Ginger Man Company.
Austin’s local Preserve District Council has advanced some constructive thoughts together with proposals to save a minimum part of Downtown Austin. The proposal prepared by the ROMA Design Group and HR & A advisers has created a momentous and lively debate among property owners and local organizations such as the Downtown Austin New Alliance and the Heritage Society of Austin. Also voicing their opinion actively is the Downtown Austin Neighborhood Association, the city of Austin’s design and planning commissions and Central Texas Chapter of the Congress for the New Urbanism. ROMA’s suggestions were presented in public on July 23. Thus far, this issue is actively debated, as many of the supporters of the concept do not care for specific ideas. Those specific items can be found here: www.cityofaustin.org/downtown . Members will supply guidelines and direction. A vote may occur directing a draft of the density bonus and all applicable ordinances including specific warehouse district rules.
There will be a great deal of deliberation regarding how to balance historic conservation at the same permitting needed development. Before the council votes on the proposal, and prior to determining exactly what will be required, the neighborhood will call for their own view on the issue to be heard.
