Austin Metric

Metrics for a worthwhile LDC rewrite.

The CodeNEXT-branded process is effectively over. A new land development code (LDC) rewrite plan will be developed by the City Manager. A successful LDC rewrite would:

1. Meaningfully reduce the rate of housing cost increases
2. Catalyze transportation mode shift away from single-occupant car commutes
3. Increase …

City-owned land should maximize resident happiness.

The City of Austin's Hancock Golf Course, located in central Austin. Image courtesy of Brandon Tucker. 

The ongoing debate about the best future use of the former Reichhold Chemicals site at McKalla Place highlights two important policy gaps City Council should address: (1) the …

A high-quality CodeNEXT result requires diligent measurement.

A successful CodeNEXT would:

1. Meaningfully reduce the rate of housing cost increases
2. Catalyze transportation mode shift away from single-occupant car commutes
3. Increase economic and racial integration

These are popular goals amongst Austin policymakers and leading civic figures, at least in terms of lip …

City Council's mobility bond embraces futile road populism instead of much-needed mode shift.

City Council's mobility bond funds the corridor plan that will expand this section of FM 969 from four to six lanes. The design speed is 50 mph.

This past Thursday, City Council moved closer to placing a …

Solving the involuntary displacement of East Austin's long-term residents requires a new shared prosperity approach. Modernizing Austin's housing development policies and increasing local affordable housing subsidies will ensure Central and West Austin do their fair share to meet regional housing demand.

East Austin is changing.

Census data reveals that "near …