AUSTIN (KXAN) — The city of Austin is making strides in the development of highway coverings atop the soon-to-be-expanded Interstate 35, with residents getting a sneak peek into the amenities that could potentially be included in these future highway caps. The Our Future 35 program will be hosting an open house on September 28th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Canopy Austin, located at 916 Springdale Road.
Brianna Frey, program manager of the strategic projects team within the Austin Transportation and Public Works Department, shared that the open house will showcase updated conceptual designs for the caps and highlight specific amenity recommendations gathered from community feedback. This feedback was collected through various channels, including an open house in May, a summertime survey, and a series of listening sessions, stakeholder workshops, and advising meetings.
Frey emphasized the significance of community involvement in shaping the urban landscape of central Austin, stating, “I think the public and the community understand that this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to influence the urban fabric of central Austin.”
With community input in mind, popular amenities for the Fourth to Seventh Streets cap include food vendors, recreation areas, lawn space, public art, and event spaces. Further north at the 38th to 41st Streets cap, recommendations include play areas, pollinator gardens, food vendors, and additional lawn space.
Looking ahead, Frey mentioned that the Our Future 35 team is actively working on the program’s vision plan, which is scheduled to be presented to the Austin City Council on November 7th for formal adoption. This plan will outline the cap amenity concepts discussed at the upcoming open house and touch on related cost estimates.
In November, the team will return to the council to discuss funding commitments with the Texas Department of Transportation. Frey explained that funding figures are still being evaluated as TxDOT finalizes their plans for the CapEx project, including roadway elements that the cap and stitch program will contribute funding towards.
In addition to the vision plan, city staff are working on a larger funding strategy for the program, addressing community inquiries about federal grants, philanthropic partnerships, and other initiatives. Frey highlighted upcoming programs such as public art installations, wayfinding components, and a mobility plan funded by federal grants, extending the program’s reach into 2025.
As the city moves forward with these designs, Frey expressed excitement about expanding “third spaces” that provide ample gathering sites for the community. She emphasized the importance of creating inviting spaces for residents of all ages, particularly those who may face challenges with mobility. Frey stressed the need for shade coverage and valuable connections within the corridor to enhance the vibrancy and culture of central Austin.
For those unable to attend the open house in person, Frey assured that all cap amenity plans and conceptual design documents will be made available online for public access and feedback.
Exploring Cap Amenities
The highway coverings on Interstate 35 present a unique opportunity to transform these spaces into vibrant community hubs. By incorporating amenities such as food vendors, recreational areas, public art, and event spaces, the caps can become inviting destinations for residents and visitors alike. The focus on creating inclusive spaces that cater to various needs and interests reflects the collaborative effort between city officials and the community.
Community Engagement and Feedback
The input gathered from residents through open houses, surveys, listening sessions, and workshops has been instrumental in shaping the vision for the highway caps. The diverse range of recommendations, from play areas to pollinator gardens, demonstrates the community’s desire for green spaces, interactive features, and sustainable elements within these urban environments. This level of engagement highlights the shared commitment to enhancing the quality of life in Austin through innovative urban design.
Future Plans and Funding Strategies
As the Our Future 35 program progresses, the focus will shift towards finalizing the vision plan and securing funding commitments. The collaboration with the Texas Department of Transportation underscores the importance of aligning resources to bring these projects to fruition. By exploring federal grants, philanthropic partnerships, and other funding opportunities, the city aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of the highway coverings and their associated amenities. The dedication to transparency and community involvement will continue to guide the program’s development as it moves towards implementation and beyond.
In conclusion, the upcoming open house in September marks a significant milestone in the evolution of the I-35 highway coverings project. With a strong emphasis on community engagement, innovative design concepts, and sustainable practices, Austin is poised to redefine its urban landscape and create dynamic spaces for generations to come. The collaborative spirit driving this initiative reflects the shared vision of a vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city.