Revitalization of Austin’s Sixth Street Advances with Plans for 232-Unit Mixed-Use Project

Austin – A rejuvenation initiative on East Sixth Street in downtown Austin is making strides as plans for the first major residential addition have received initial approval. Stream Realty Partners has taken control of various land parcels along East Sixth street and proposed the first transformative mixed-use project – the Grant Building, expected to house more than 230 residential units.

The Bigger Picture

In recent years, Stream Realty has sought to improve and redevelop portions of historic East Sixth Street. The firm’s vision consummates an all-day environment for visitors, transitioning from the existing nightlife scene, to a more inclusive neighborhood featuring eateries, shops, and pedestrian-friendly avenues like farmers markets and concerts.

The initiative, named “Old 6th”, was borne out of a need to address certain issues plaguing the block – a predominance of run-down or vacant buildings, an excess of bars over diverse establishments, and safety concerns arising from frequent violent occurrences.

On top of these plans, the project has beckoned new building regulations on East Sixth that permit taller buildings, potentially paving the way for new housing, hotels, and office spaces. Nevertheless, Stream intends to maintain the district’s stature as an entertainment and tourism destination.

Current Developments

A crucial aspect of Stream’s renovation strategy revolves around obtaining permission from Austin’s Historic Landmark Commission, considering the Old 6th initiative is centered in the Sixth Street Historic District. So far in this year, almost two dozen sites have been reviewed by the commission for updates such as building rehabilitation and conversions from bars or commercial structures into restaurants and other saleable spaces.

Among these, the commission recently sanctioned the redevelopment of 611 E. Sixth St. into a residential complex consisting of hundreds of new apartments, marking the first significant mixed-use project in the district. The approval followed several modifications aimed at ensuring the new building’s exterior blends in with its historic surroundings on the block.

The Grant Building

The proposed Grant Building, a 184,000-square-foot feature developed by Ryan Cos, will replace the existing property owned by a New York-based LLC. The six-story building is slated to offer 232 residential units, including 10,000 square feet of street-level commercial space, 14,000 square feet dedicated to amenities and leasing, and a two-level parking structure. Paul Bodenman, Stream Senior Vice President, expressed enthusiasm for the project, citing the latest approval as an essential step towards East Sixth’s rejuvenation.

The planning firm and city authorities are keen on making East Sixth Street vibrant and inviting for pedestrians, marking yet another positive indication for the realization of a truly revitalized Sixth Street.