Austin Downtown Commission Scrutinize Equitable Historic Preservation Plan

A Plan Striking Balance Between Housing and Historic Preservation

The Downtown Commission of Austin has given their assessments and mostly commended the preliminary version of the city’s Equity-Based Preservation Plan. This plan, open for public comments until the end of May, takes into account the necessity for more housing while aiming to curb displacement and supporting the preservation of historic edifices in the rapidly expanding city.

Over a period of two years, the plan has been shaped, offering more than 100 recommendations. It covers the main preservation objectives, which sectors and departments should be heavily involved in preservation efforts, and proposes methods to simplify and expedite the preservation process.

Addressing Challenges in Historic Property Preservation

A pressing inquiry made by the commission pertains to how to better assist those landowners or developers that plan to replace a declining structure only to discover that the building is possibly historic and henceforth forbidden from demolition.

The plan, according to Cara Bertron, the city’s historic preservation officer, includes a provision that aspires to better enable the Law Department and other city institutions to revise the existing regulations about cases of demolition due to neglect. Moreover, it aims to identify potential funding sources to help in refurbishing historic properties for owners who cannot afford to maintain ownership.

Concerns Over Historic Preservation Incentives

Another concern raised revolved around the incentives for historic preservation incorporated in the recent HOME initiative to promote density. Commissioner Liz Coufal expressed apprehension that owners of historic homes in East Austin might face substantial costs and protracted waiting time to avail the opportunity to construct additional residences on their lots.

These aspects are being contemplated for future amendments to the land code integrated with the HOME initiative, as explained by JuanRaymon Rubio, a Historic Landmark Commission member who contributed to the plan.

Preserving Archaeological Artifacts During Demolition

The commission drew particular attention to the necessity of hiring an archaeologist to handle cases when demolition and redevelopment efforts uncover historically significant artifacts that need protection. August Harris, the Chair, reflected on incidents such as the loss of Native American middens during the Walnut Creek trail construction as precedents the city should avoid in future.

Harris stated, “If we have resources for an archaeologist and we’re aware of that procedure going forward, we might not lose some of the few bits that are left.” This suggestion underscores the importance of historical preservation not just in terms of architecture, but also in preserving the tangible remnants of our shared human heritage.

Moving Toward an Inclusive and Equitable Preservation

As Austin continues to grow and evolve, the need for a balanced and equitable approach to preservation becomes paramount. By considering the unique circumstances and needs of historic property owners and bringing in more assistance and resources, the city is hoping to forge a new path for preservation that respects both the past and the future.

Note to Readers

Your views and opinions about the Equity-Based Preservation Plan matter. For a community to prosper, the voice of its individuals must be heard. It is to this end that you are cordially invited to proffer your feedback on this plan until the end of May.