Hello Neighbors,

As we head deeper into May, our community faces a critical crossroads. The upcoming I-35 Capital Express Central project represents one of the most massive infrastructure overhauls in Austin's modern history. While its stated goals include modernization and increased mobility, the physical reality of this corridor will fundamentally alter the edge of East Cesar Chavez for generations to come.

This month, two separate I-35 decisions tell a familiar story. In one, the City is debating whether to walk away from the very infrastructure that could one day reconnect our neighborhood to Downtown. In the other, TxDOT made a decision on a sound wall along our border while deliberately excluding the neighborhood from the discussion.

Different agencies, different decisions. But the same underlying patterns I wrote about in March and April. Now more than ever, our neighborhood requires vigilant, proactive leadership and advocacy. We cannot afford to sit back and treat the outcomes of state and city planning as inevitable. 

Please continue reading below for this month’s agenda, a discussion of each I-35 issue, and where your voice still matters.

Note: today’s meeting will again take place at the new Dwell Coworking, 1201 E. Cesar Chavez.

Table of Contents

• Critical I-35 Decisions Impacting Our Neighborhood

  • Mayor Watson’s Proposal Places I-35 Caps At Risk Y …

    • The Situation

    • “Cap Killer” Reality Check

    • We Need your Support to Stop Mayor Watson’s Propos …

  • TxDOT’s I-35 Sound Wall Decision

    • Where this goes next

• Announcements

  • PTMD Funding Update

  • Saltillo Plaza: Movability Proposal to Lead Engage …

  • A Research Opportunity: Noise, Fairness, and New T …

  • Festival Beach Food Forest Letter to City Council

  • Meeting Location: Dwell Coworking, 1201 E. Cesar C …

    • Donate to Support Alex’s Recovery After Work Accid …

• Save the Date: Community Neighborhood Events

  • Juntos de Nuevo — ESB-MACC Grand Reopening — Satur …

  • Historic Home Maintenance 101 — Saturday, May 30

Critical I-35 Decisions Impacting Our Neighborhood

Mayor Watson’s Proposal Places I-35 Caps At Risk Yet Again; The Vote is May 28

The Situation

Next Thursday, May 28th, the Austin City Council will consider a new proposal from Mayor Watson. The Mayor is proposing that the City pay for a single, targeted 160 foot wide "stitch" at Third Street (near Palm Park) for $41.3M. However, his proposal simultaneously eliminates all funding for the foundational infrastructure needed to support future caps along the rest of the downtown segments.

Eliminating the caps infrastructure for other downtown caps also means paying a $2.25M re-design fee to scale back engineering plans. This adjustment will permanently alter standard safety profiles, retaining wall designs, and cross-street layouts between Cesar Chavez and 7th Street to ensure they cannot support caps in the future.

“Cap Killer” Reality Check

While securing the 3rd Street stitch adjacent to our neighborhood sounds nice, the reality is that TxDOT is already building a pedestrian crossing at 4th Street. Eliminating the continuous cap also eliminates most of the benefits and is too small to protect pedestrians from sound and negative effects of the highway. Stripping out future-proofing framework now saves relatively minor upfront capital but permanently seals our neighborhood off from ever achieving a continuous, cap layout that unites East and Downtown Austin.

We cannot retrofit caps onto a finished highway. Sacrificing the structural capability for all other future caps is short-sighted, at best.

Fortunately, a block of five Council Members is still fighting to preserve the full funding for all cap infrastructure. However, Mayor Watson currently has three solid votes and is actively looking to secure more.

We Need your Support to Stop Mayor Watson’s Proposal

If you live, work or have roots in East Austin, we need your support to advocate for preserving the Caps. Please fill out this form to quickly help organize efforts.

TxDOT’s I-35 Sound Wall Decision

What happened

As part of the I-35 rebuild, TxDOT studied the noise our stretch of highway will generate and found it exceeds federal limits. After redesigning the frontage road, they determined a noise wall was feasible along the northbound retaining wall between East Cesar Chavez and Holly Streets — a 14-foot wall running about 1,229 feet. A neighbor, Ian Wilson, put together an excellent plain-language summary of the proposal and what the highway will look like here.

Under federal rules, only "benefited" property owners, those who would see at least a 5 decibel reduction and directly adjacent to the wall, are eligible to vote on whether it gets built. TxDOT held a workshop at Sanchez Elementary in February, ran two rounds of voting, and in the end did not reach the minimum 25% response rate required to move forward. As a result, no noise wall will be built. Instead, TxDOT will install a standard safety fence, with construction folded into the Downtown segment beginning late 2026.

Our concern is that TxDOT intentionally excluded the ECCNA/NPCT from the engagement process entirely. With the support of the broader community, voting would have reached the 25% threshold. We’ve asked why TxDOT elected to exclude the broader community and are awaiting a comprehensive response.

Where this goes next

TxDOT has discretionary decision-making authority on what happens next. I’ve shared our concerns, and TxDOT are holding internal meetings to discuss next steps. We’ll share the outcomes of those meetings here.

Announcements

Cultural District Survey — We Need Your Input

The application for a state-level Cultural District designation along East Cesar Chavez is advancing and we want the district's goals to reflect the people who actually live and work here. Jordan Nelsen, Gallery Director at Women & Their Work, is helping gather broader community input.

Please take a few minutes to fill out this brief survey and share it with your networks: forms.gle/HpXuCnfuSubKok967

ECCNA's Transition to a Nonprofit Service Entity

Following the plan I outlined in April, we continue to move toward forming a nonprofit stewardship organization spanning East Cesar Chavez and Holly. I recently presented the proposal to the Holly Neighbors, where it was well received with a healthy Q&A. The main piece of feedback was on the proposed name: specifically, whether "East Austin Alliance" is too broad. That is exactly the kind of input we want, and we will keep working through it together. We will discuss progress at the meeting.

Demolition of 1808 E. Cesar Chavez (former WeatherUp)

Thanks to a timely letter from the Holly Neighborhood Association, the Historic Landmark Commission has pushed its decision on the demolition to June. City staff will present their evaluation and recommendation at the meeting. We will discuss this at today’s meeting.

PTMD Funding Update

The City has finally explained how and why portions of our neighborhood's Parking Transportation Meter Funds were allocated to cover CapMetro shortfalls — the issue I flagged in March. The short version: allocating those funds without engaging us first was a mistake, and the City has committed to creating a more formal meeting structure going forward. They are also helping allocate planning funds and support the Redline Parkway funding request. On balance, a positive step.

Saltillo Plaza: Movability Proposal to Lead Engagement Study

Ryan Saunders and I met with the Executive Director of Movability, who has proposed leading a community engagement study to get placemaking and the long-overdue update of Plaza Saltillo moving. This is genuinely good news after years of stalled progress

A Research Opportunity: Noise, Fairness, and New Transportation Tech

Pranati Kompella, a research assistant at the UT Austin School of Information, is recruiting Austin community members for a workshop on how new transportation technology — air taxis and drones, known as Urban Air Mobility — might distribute noise across neighborhoods, and who gets to decide what "fair" looks like. Given everything in this newsletter about noise and who sits at the table, it feels especially relevant.

No technical background is needed — they want lived experience and community perspective. The workshop is in late June at the UT iSchool (parking provided), runs four hours, and compensates participants $50/hour. If you are interested, fill out the short screening form: utexas.qualtrics.com.

Festival Beach Food Forest Letter to City Council

Here’s the final letter we sent to Council. Thank you to everyone who has supported this effort.

Meeting Location: Dwell Coworking, 1201 E. Cesar Chavez

Parking is available at the corner of E. Cesar Chavez and Waller St

Donate to Support Alex’s Recovery After Work Accident

A member of our community, Alex Montoya, owner of owner of Alex’s Tree Services, is recovering after a serious work accident. Please check out this GoFundMe if you’re able to contribute…they are only $4,000 short of the goal.

gofundme.com

Save the Date: Community Neighborhood Events

Juntos de Nuevo — ESB-MACC Grand Reopening — Saturday, June 6

The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center welcomes the community back to its newly renovated facility with Juntos de Nuevo — a day of reconnection, celebration, and cultural expression. This free, family-friendly event is open to all.

Register here

Historic Home Maintenance 101 — Saturday, May 30

Preservation Austin is hosting a workshop to help residents care for older homes — inspecting and maintaining your home through the seasons, building a toolkit of must-have supplies, and knowing when to connect with a contractor. Registration is $20 for Preservation Austin members, $30 for non-members.

Register and learn more here

Eric Pace, Chair
ECCNA/NPCT

Hello Neighbors,

Spring is a time for new beginnings, and that feels especially relevant this year.

Note: today’s meeting will again take place at the new Dwell Coworking, 1201 E. Cesar Chavez.

Please read below for the full agenda and updates.

Table of Contents

• A Neighborhood Without a Name — And Why That Matte …

  • The Gap

  • A More Effective, Durable Approach

  • We Need Support

  • What to Expect Next

• Announcements

  • Meeting Location: Dwell Coworking, 1201 E. Cesar C …

    • Saltillo Plaza District: A Failed Project or a Wor …

    • Donate to Support Alex’s Recovery After Work Accid …

  • CapMetro Proposed Route Changes (August 2026)

  • Cesar Chavez & Red Bluff Mobility Improvements Sur …

• Save the Date: Community Neighborhood Events

  • Grand Opening: Dwell Coworking - April 23 - 1201 E …

  • Alley Activation Project – April 28 - Something Co …

  • Holly Neighborhood Association Happy Hour – April …

  • WILLOW STREET BLOCK PARTIES!

  • STEAMFest at Martin Middle School - May 16

  • Holly NA May Membership Meeting - May 12

  • Youth Basketball at Pan Am Registration - Register …

A Neighborhood Without a Name — And Why That Matters (Part II)

In the March update, I shared how a century of external forces, from the 1928 City Plan to the construction of I-35, have fragmented our neighborhood. Despite the best intentions and efforts over the past 25 years of growth, significant gaps remain to ensure a neighborhood like ours is walkable, safe, and vibrant.

The result is something we all feel. A dynamic neighborhood with rich history, culture, and immense opportunity but without clear alignment, consistent representation, or a voice.

This month, I want to focus less on how we got here and more on what it will take to move forward.

The Gap

The underlying issue is not a lack of effort or care, it’s a lack of structure and resources. Today, there is no single entity responsible for:

• Defining a long-term vision

• Coordinating with City, County, and State entities across a myriad of initiatives

• Engaging and advocating consistently on behalf of residents, businesses, churches, and non-profits across the ECC and Holly Neighborhoods

• Pursuing services and funding for our specific needs.

Our volunteer organization plays an important role, but it was never designed to do all of this work. This gap is becoming more visible as the pace of change accelerates.

What we’re exploring now is how to build something that can operate at the level this moment requires, and do so sustainably over time.

A More Effective, Durable Approach

1. Establish a Dedicated Nonprofit Stewardship Organization

We are actively exploring the formation of a nonprofit organization focused on the East Cesar Chavez and Holly Neighborhoods, from I-35 to Pleasant Valley.

Whether we call it the "East Austin Alliance" or another name we choose together, this organization would focus on:

• Public Realm Stewardship: Improvement and maintenance of alleyways, secondary streets, and public spaces.

• District Services Coordination: Administration of shared services such as security, maintenance, and related programs, including activation and events for public spaces and community assets

• Planning and Advocacy: Ensuring that major projects like the Plaza Saltillo expansion or the I-35 Caps actually serve the people living next to them, while advocating for** sensible zoning, incremental development, and pilot projects that support walkability and local businesses

• Community Development: Acquisition, ownership, rehabilitation, and/or development of property to support neighborhood stabilization, small businesses, and mission-aligned economic activity, including through partnerships with public agencies and private entities.

This would not replace existing neighborhood structures. It would complement and support them by adding capacity where it’s currently missing.

2. Define a Clear Identity for the Corridor

Our neighborhood is often treated as an extension of somewhere else. Sometimes, it’s considered part of Downtown. Other times, especially among City policies, it’s lumped into a broader “East Austin” that’s inclusive of the entire city east of I-35. This ambiguity has real consequences.

We are taking early steps to define this neighborhood on its own terms. This starts with reunifying the Holly and ECC Neighborhoods under a single entity.

There is also an opportunity to rename East Cesar Chavez Street, and the neighborhood itself.

The next opportunity is to pursue a state-level designation for a Cultural District along East Cesar Chavez, from I-35 to Pleasant Valley.

This will help create a foundation for:

• Coordinated investment

• Cultural preservation

• Economic development that reflects the community

• A clearer narrative for what this place is, and where it’s going.

3. Build A Broader Coalition + Align Around a Focused Set of Priorities

I’ve heard from many of you after the last newsletter. Your feedback confirmed what many people feel. There’s a widespread mix of frustration, exhaustion, exasperation, and sometimes apathy because many folks are tired of "chipping away" at problems and ready for systemic change. One neighbor put it best:

Well said. We don’t need a long list of goals, just alignment around a few that matter.

For any of this to work, it can’t rely on a small group of people. We need broader participation from:

• Residents across different parts of the neighborhood

• Business and property owners

• Community organizations and cultural institutions.

Not everyone needs to be involved in everything, but we do need more people engaged in shaping the direction of the neighborhood.

We Need Support

If you’re reading this and any wondering if/how you can help, we’re currently working on the following:

• Finding a temporary & permanent office location for the new entity

• Seeking nonprofit IRS status

• Bylaws & Board Creation

• Funding Strategy

• Branding & Web Presence

• Finding experienced advisors and partner organizations

We are also seeking feedback on this plan. This is our chance to reclaim our narrative and build a structure that outlasts any single contributor or initiative. So if you have any feedback, please share it!

What to Expect Next

This will take time to get right. Over the coming weeks and months, you’ll see more concrete steps in a few areas:

• Initial work to define the structure and scope of the nonprofit

• Updates on the Cultural District application

• More targeted working sessions tied to specific priorities

• Clearer opportunities for neighbors to get involved.

Announcements

Meeting Location: Dwell Coworking, 1201 E. Cesar Chavez

As part of our effort to visit different parts of the neighborhood, this month’s meeting will be hosted by Dwell Coworking ahead of their grand opening on April 23. See below for parking:

Parking is available at the corner of E. Cesar Chavez and Waller St

Saltillo Plaza District: A Failed Project or a Work in Progress?

Ryan Saunders recently published an article exploring the current state of Saltillo and where it may be headed. Read here in EastSideATX

https://www.eastsideatx.com/plaza-saltillo-district/

Donate to Support Alex’s Recovery After Work Accident

A member of our community, Alex Montoya, owner of owner of Alex’s Tree Services, is recovering after a serious work accident. Please check out this GoFundMe if you’re able to contribute.

gofundme.com

CapMetro Proposed Route Changes (August 2026)

CapMetro is proposing an extension of Route 2 along Springdale Road, improving connectivity across East Austin and to downtown.

Key changes include:

• Expanded east-west access without transfers

• New stops along Springdale

• Removal of service at Goodwin & Airport (with nearby alternatives)

View the map here.

Share feedback here.

Cesar Chavez & Red Bluff Mobility Improvements Survey

The City is planning safety and mobility upgrades between Pleasant Valley and Shady Lane, including:

• One lane in each direction with a center turn lane

• Protected bike lanes and urban trail connections

• New pedestrian crossings and signals

• Formalized parking and updated bus stops

To provide feedback, take the survey here.

Save the Date: Community Neighborhood Events

Grand Opening: Dwell Coworking - April 23 - 1201 E. Cesar Chavez

Click here to register (free)

Agenda

4:30 - 5:30 PM: Tours, Snacks, Libations.
5:30 - 6:00 PM Austin Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting + CoFounders' Welcome
6:00 - 6:15 PM Kimberly Culbertson
6:15 - 7:00 PM More Tours, Snacks, Libations.

Alley Activation Project – April 28 - Something Cool Studios

Neighbors have been working to transform the alley between Willow and Cesar Chavez through cleanups, design workshops, and community building.

Over the past year they have hosted design charettes in partnership with AIA Austin, multiple clean up projects and built garden beds in collaboration with Rotary Club of Austin. We want voices and participation from more neighbors, especially those who live directly on the alley.

Take this opportunity to learn more about the project, meet the leaders and fellow neighbors. This is the first step to create a working group to shape the future direction for the project.

This meeting is open to all:
WHEN: April 28, 6:30 PM
WHERE: Something Cool Studios, 1717 E Cesar Chavez St

Holly Neighborhood Association Happy Hour – April 30, 5 PM

Join fellow neighbors for Spanish appetizers and creative cocktails.

WHEN: Thursday, April 30th, 5–7 PM
WHERE: Kalimotxo, 1813 E. 6th Street

WILLOW STREET BLOCK PARTIES!

Holly in Bloom - May 2 - 2300 Willow Street TIME: 2 pm–8 pm Note from the organizers: We’re having a full-on block party/festival on 2300 block of Willow. — 6–7 craft vendors, two food vendors, a stage with full sound, and 2–3 bands. Would love to see you if you want to stop by! This is mainly organized by my very cool next door neighbor Sam at 2305 Willow. See you soon! Ledia and Paul 2303 Willow st We have the zebra mailboxes, 1916 yellow house, green porch, big garden. Pls say hi if you come by!

Cinco De Mayo Block Party - May 9 - 1900 Willow Street TIME: 3pm, dinner at 4pm The 3rd Annual 1900 Willow Cinco de Mayo Block Party is coming up. Potluck style Kid-friendly activities Music, food, and community Starting at 3 PM, dinner at 4 PM. RSVP here. Note from the organizers: We hope to have some (traditional) entertainment and also some music - we want you to feel free to stay. Though the invitation says it ends at 7pm, we will also be hanging out and enjoying conversation until later. BYOB. There will be kid's activities! We are so excited to host this again, and we would love your help.  Please RSVP if you can come - this helps us have enough tables and chairs and plates. Please donate if you are able - the chairs and tables and entertainment cost money. Consider $10 per person, or $20 per family if you are able, and please don't think twice if you aren't able to donate - we are so lucky to be neighbors and so excited to see you on May 9th. Lynn, Daniel, Christina, Alexandra, Leslie, Joanne, Nancy and Janet!

STEAMFest at Martin Middle School - May 16

Join us as at the 10th Annual STEAMFest at Martin Middle School on Saturday, May 16th from 10 am to 2 pm! STEAMFest showcases our Eastside schools with STEM demonstrations, arts displays, performances, family resources, summer camp registrations, and fun for all.

Holly NA May Membership Meeting - May 12

 WHEN: May 12 | 6:30-7:30 PM
WHERE: 📍 Mendez Recreation Center at Metz Park

We’ve invited speakers from the Austin Area Firewise Alliance to discuss Fire protection for your home and yard. We’ll also provide updates on upcoming Holly NA events and recent development in the neighborhood.

Interested in learning more about a particular neighborhood topic? Or know a great speaker who would be a good fit for one of our meetings? Let us know! Holly NA Meeting Speaker Ideas.

Youth Basketball at Pan Am Registration - Register by May 9th

WHEN: Registration in person, by phone or online now through May 9th. Practice begins week of June 28th.  Also looking for volunteer coaches.

WHERE: Cantu-Pan Am Rec Center

Eric Pace, Chair
ECCNA/NPCT

Hello Neighbors,

It’s been a challenging month, and there’s much discuss. For example, what should we call our neighborhood?

Today’s meeting will again take place at the brand-new RBJ Residences (1320 Art Dilly Dr).

Please read below for the full agenda and updates.

Table of Contents

• A Neighborhood Without a Name — And Why That Matte …

  • Historic Context

  • 2001–Present: Growth Without Alignment

• A Plan For What Comes Next

• Announcements

  • Festival Beach Garden Under Attack

  • ECC Homeless Task Force Update

  • Initiative to Expand ECC NPCT Boundaries

  • Cap & Stitch is Getting Messy(ier)

• Save the Date: Community Neighborhood Events

  • East Cesar Chavez Alley Project and Rotary Club of …

  • Youth Basketball at Pan Am Registration

  • The Trail Conservancey - Music on the Trail Series

  • Spring Fling

  • Holly Jam Session

A Neighborhood Without a Name — And Why That Matters

I’ve been the Chair of this neighborhood planning entity for over four years now, and this year feels like an inflection point for our community.

There are moments when a neighborhood is forced to take stock of itself. This is one of those moments.

Recent headlines about Cesar Chavez have prompted conversations across Austin about legacy, identity, and what we choose to honor. Regardless of where people land on that debate, it has surfaced something deeper for our neighborhood: a growing sense that our identity is not being shaped by the people who live here but by decisions made around us.

At the same time, the conditions on our streets are changing in ways that feel increasingly unmanaged. The rise in homelessness, public safety concerns, and inconsistent service delivery are not abstract policy issues. They are daily realities for residents and businesses alike. And yet, there is no coordinated, accountable presence from the City focused on stewarding outcomes in our neighborhood.

Whether it’s the demolition of an iconic historic building, the expansion of I-35 moving forward without funding for caps, the City and CapMetro’s shared failure to invest in developing Plaza Saltillo, school closures, the Nash Hernandez building sitting vacant for a better part of two decades or the recent government created emergency at the Festival Beach Food Forest…these aren’t isolated issues, but rather symptoms of a broader problem:

Planners view our neighborhood as corridor for cars to pass through on their way to Downtown rather than a vibrant community worth investing in.

The most recent example of this is Transportation Public Works unilaterally spending our neighborhood’s Parking Transportation Meter Funds to cover shortfalls in CapMetro’s budget. This is money that’s supposed to be invested in transportation projects for our neighborhood, and TPW felt they knew best how to allocate those resources without any coordination.

Historic Context

In the early 20th century, a mix of working-class communities including Mexican-American, Black, and immigrant families lived, worked, and built communities here. There was no single label. No formal boundaries. Just a neighborhood shaped by proximity to downtown, the river, and opportunity.

The 1928 City Plan changed everything. City policy pushed Black and Mexican-American residents east of what is now I-35 by concentrating services and resources there. What followed is well documented: disinvestment, redlining, and the physical division with the construction of I-35.

Despite systemic neglect, something powerful emerged. Along East 1st Street (now E. Cesar Chavez) and surrounding blocks Tejano culture flourished. Local businesses, music, and art defined the corridor. Families built deep, multi-generational roots and our neighborhood became known as the heart of East Austin.

In 1993, East 1st Street was renamed Cesar Chavez Street, to honor a civil rights legacy. Then in 2001, the City formally adopted the East Cesar Chavez Neighborhood and Holly Neighborhood Plans.

For the first time, formal boundaries were drawn and planning structure was created. But it split a historically unified community into two separate planning areas. It had the unintended consequence of fragmenting cultural identity and weakening the collective influence of our neighborhood layered on top of an already complex and evolving community.

2001–Present: Growth Without Alignment

Over the past 25 years, our neighborhood has changed dramatically—and not in a coordinated way. We’ve seen rapid commercial development reshape the area, often without a clear connection to the existing community. At the same time, many of the cultural anchors have been displaced or lost entirely.

Major infrastructure projects continue to move forward, but without a cohesive plan that reflects the needs or vision of the neighborhood as a whole. And while all of this change accelerates, public investment hasn’t kept pace. We’re still largely constrained by decades-old land use and zoning frameworks that were never designed for the realities we’re facing today.

The result is something we all feel. A dynamic neighborhood with rich history, culture, and immense opportunity but without clear alignment, consistent representation, or a voice.

A Plan For What Comes Next

If the last 100 years were largely shaped by external forces, the next chapter must be shaped by this neighborhood.

That means:

• Reclaiming a shared identity

• Creating a modern vision that reflects today’s realities

• Building the organizational structure needed for us to advocate, coordinate, and shape the future of our neighborhood.

In my next update, I’ll share a plan for what that might look like.

Announcements

Festival Beach Garden Under Attack

Austin Energy is required to reroute an existing transmission line to accommodate TxDOT’s expansion of I-35. So, of course, the proposal is to move it to the East side.

One transmission structure will be replaced on Festival Beach Park property, and two new structures will be placed outside of the park property in the road right-of-way. All told, 15,368 sq. ft. of parkland will be displaced.

You can see Austin Energy’s proposal here. If this is something you care about, I suggest reaching out CM Velasquez.

ECC Homeless Task Force Update

Below is an update from the Task Force Chair, Shannon Taylor:

Hi everyone,

I wish I had better news, but we have made only minor progress this month on cleaning up our area from the issues caused by unhoused folks and enforcing the camping/trespassing laws. However, every bit helps!

Progress:

• The empty lots on the south side of Cesar Chavez St. between I-35 and San Marcos St. have been cleared of unhoused folks, new camping ban signs were installed, and enforcement of those areas has been consistent for a few weeks.

• Central Health continues to mostly enforce the camping ban and trespassing laws on its property at the corner of Waller and Cesar Chavez St.

• The city installed more trash cans in the parking lot of the Terazzas Library.

• Jose Velazquez organized a meeting between Shannon Taylor, Eric Pace, and city officials from several departments including APD, COA libraries, COA HSO (Homeless Strategy Office), Austin Resource Recovery (Trash/Recycling), Central Health, Integral Care, and the Texas Harm Reduction Alliance. While each department is doing good work in tacking the challenges faced by unhoused folks and the issues caused by them, it was clear that none of these departments has anything additional planned to help our neighborhood in immediate future. 

  • Austin Resource Recovery has increased their trash sweep in our neighborhood from weekly to daily. Please tell me specific streets or alleys that aren't getting daily attention, and I'll let them know.

  • COA Libraries continues to allow trespassing and overnight camping in direct violation of the COA ordinance and state law. COA is aware of this and will not enforce the camping ban. This is a large area of concern for us. 

• Texas Harm Reduction Alliance has agreed to help with trash cleanup, including needles. Call them for assistance when you see trash that needs attention.512-893-3237 (during regular business hours)

• Integral Health is committed to enforcing the camping ban on their properties.

Next Steps:

• Apologies, I've been under water with work for a few weeks and haven't had time to gather those interested in joining and forming the task force with me. My next step will be to contact those folks and strategize. Please let me know if you'd like to be a part of this group. 

• Jose Velazquez is helping to facilitate a meeting with between Eric, Shannon, and Police Chief Davis.

• Report trespassing and any law violations to 911. It does help in the long run to have more calls on record for our neighborhood.

Thank you, neighbors!  

Shannon Taylor

Initiative to Expand ECC NPCT Boundaries

Update: Due to the City’s position on combining NPCTs, we are continuing to shift direction. While the boundary expansion itself is not moving forward under current City Code, we are advancing two parallel efforts that address the underlying issue in a more practical way.

First, we are developing a proposal to create a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing full-time planning, advocacy, and business services across both East Cesar Chavez and Holly. In this model, the ECC Neighborhood Association would be dissolved and replaced by a new entity designed to operate at the scale of the actual community—rather than the City’s administrative boundaries.

Second, we are actively exploring a state-level Cultural District designation that would span across both neighborhoods along E. Cesar Chavez Street. This is a separate effort from the neighborhood boundary discussion, but it directly supports the same goal: establishing a shared identity and unlocking new tools for preservation, investment, and cultural recognition.

Together, these efforts represent a shift from trying to change City boundaries to building the structure and identity needed to function as one connected community in practice.

More details to come on both initiatives in the coming weeks.

Background: The ECC NPCT has proposed expanding its boundaries to include the Holly Neighborhood. However, City Staff’s interpretation of the relevant City Code prevents this from happening.

Cap & Stitch is Getting Messy(ier)

To summarize the City’s current strategy, it’s to cross their fingers and hope that a philanthropist will cut a check. The problem with this strategy is that there’s not a single example that I can find of a philanthropist paying for the infrastructure portions of a major project like this. Across similar projects in Dallas, Boston, Denver, Seattle and others, philanthropists invested in the programming, but not the deck infrastructure itself.

Slide 16 (see screenshot below) in the City’s presentation doesn’t tell the whole story. If evaluating funding for deck infrastructure, the philanthropy funding percentage is likely zero across all of these projects.

All “cap” projects have three layers:

1. Highway / structural deck (the true “cap”)

   1. This is the most expensive and hardest-to-fund

   2. All have been funded entirely by federal/state transportation dollars

2. Park Buildout

   1. Soil depth, drainage, landscaping, pavilions, utilities

   2. Heavily supported by philanthropy

3. Programming / operations

   1. Events, maintenance, activation

   2. Often funded by conservancies, sponsors, etc.

So why does the City believe this time philanthropists will pay for the infrastructure? The brief doesn’t explain why.

I-35 Cap and Stitch Cap Decks - Staff Recommendations - March 24, 2026

What’s next for those parks Austin wants to build over I-35?

Those “caps and stitches” are essentially decks over the highway that allow for parks, trails, green space and even buildings to be built on top.

www.kxan.com/news/local/austin/whats-next-for-those-parks-austin-wants-to-build-over-i-35/amp

Save the Date: Community Neighborhood Events

Youth Basketball at Pan Am Registration

WHEN: Registration in person, by phone or online now through May 9th. Practice begins week of June 28th.  Also looking for volunteer coaches.

WHERE: Cantu-Pan Am Rec Center

The Trail Conservancey - Music on the Trail Series

WHEN: Wednesdays, March 11–April 15, 2026

WHERE: Rainey Street Trailhead

Bring a blanket and enjoy these free concerts featuring:

March 11–Next of kin

March 18–Lorena

March 25–Madam Radar Duo

April 1–Uncle Roy & Spice

April 8–Pat Byrne

April 15–Nick Parr

Spring Fling

WHEN: March 21, 10:30am–12:30pm

WHERE: Pan AM Rec Center

Easter Egg hunts, games music, games, visit a fire truck

Holly Jam Session

A night of local performers and some open mic karaoke is being planned at Esquina Tango.

Eric Pace, Chair
ECCNA/NPCT

Hello Neighbors,

Happy LUNAR New Year! This month’s neighborhood meeting will again take place at the brand-new RBJ Residences (1320 Art Dilly Dr). Our focus will continue to be on safety and crime issues resulting from I-35 construction and the homeless population, and we’ll conduct elections for our board.

Please read below for the full agenda and updates!

Table of Contents

• Announcements

  • ECC Homeless Task Force Update

  • Initiative to Expand ECC NPCT Boundaries

    • I-35’s Cap and Stitch Is Getting Messy • The Austi …

  • Where should we invest $4M in our Neighborhood?

• Save the Date: Community Neighborhood Events

  • TODAY: Holly Neighborhood Association Quarterly Me …

    • Recess Reset at Sanchez School Park - It’s My Park …

  • CapMetro Design Update: Tuesday, March 10

  • Holly NA Jam/Karaoke Night: Sunday, March 28

• Save the Date: Local City Events

  • Health Sciences Open House at Austin Community Col …

  • STEM Girl Day at UT Austinutexas.qualtrics.com/jfe …

Announcements

ECC Homeless Task Force Update

As many of you know, we established a Homeless Task Force last month due to increasing challenges across the neighborhood. (See January Meeting Minutes.)

Below is an update from the Task Force Chair, Shannon Taylor:

Thank you to everyone who has been helping. We’re making ourselves heard and have made some progress. Since our last ECC meeting in January:

• 18 of us spoke out at Central Health’s monthly board meeting. We voiced concerns about them allowing homeless camping on their property at 1111 E. Cesar Chavez after business hours and on weekends. Central Health showed genuine concern for our neighborhood and took quick action. Good news!: Central Health extended their private security patrol to 7 days per week, 7 a.m. to midnight, beginning February 7, 2026. That’s a large increase from the previous security patrol 7am to 4pm, M-F. Their security walks the property and enforces state and local no-trespassing and no-camping laws. As a result, we’ve seen almost no camping on Central Health’s property. Further, Central Health hired a crew to clean up needles and feces from the alley on their block. Predictably, however, many of those homeless folks adopted the library property as their new camping spot, and we’re working with library leadership to address that.

• Shannon Taylor met with Jose Valesquez to discuss the new task force and the issues caused by the unhoused population in our neighborhood. Jose has taken the initiative to meet with several entities and will next host a meeting with ECC Task Force leadership, APD, COA Library leadership, Central Health, COA Homeless Strategy Office, and Austin Resource Recovery, with the goal of coordinating enforcement and plans to reduce the homeless population in our area. Stay tuned for more updates after Shannon meets with them. Jose Velasquez and his team have expressed interest in attending the next ECC NPCT meeting to update us directly.

• Several fires were set and homeless folks in our neighborhood, and reported to AFD by neighbors. 

• We continue to see far too much homeless camping, trash, and drug activity at the library, on the sidewalks, streets, and alleys. The razed lot across from Angel House has become a recent hot spot of homeless camping and drug activity. Shannon has spoken with HSO about this, and will get more updates soon on their plans to help.

What can you do now?

1. Join the ECC Homeless Task Force. Reply to this email if you’re interested.

2. Spread the word. Tell your neighbors, forward the email, etc. So far, we have 37 folks on the Task Force.

3. Call 911 whenever you see homeless crime, including camping/trespassing. You don't have to call 311. We continue to get mixed instructions from the city on whether to call 311 or 911. I’ve been told that any crime, including trespassing, belongs to 911. In the long run, 911 and 311 data points are tracked differently and used to allocate resources. For this reason, it’s important to report all crimes we see. We don’t want to be underrepresented when APD allocates patrols next time. 

4. Always call 911 immediately if you see a campfire. If it's a cooking fire, AFD may not put it out. If it's a fire for warmth or recreation, AFD will send a fire crew to put it out, and they often address camping/trespassing at the same time.

5. Capture any photos or video you can of unhoused folks interfering with traffic, cars, or right of way, especially near I-35 or the soup kitchen. It might get TXDOT's attention if unhoused folks interfere with traffic safety. Send me the footage via text or email. 

6. WhatsApp alert list. It’s an alert system that will be used (with restraint - you won’t get very many messages) to alert neighbors of urgent or timely homeless issues and requests for action. For example: Alert: Homeless trash fire at XXX address. Please call 911 to report. Or example #2: Alert: Erratic/dangerous homeless person needs wellness check at XXX location. Please call 311/911. This way, we can get more calls and attention on timely issues. If you’re interested in being part of it, let me know.

Next Steps

Stay tuned; more updates to come after my next meeting with APD, Jose Velasquez, the HSO (Homeless Strategy Office), library, and Central Health. 

Thank you, neighbors!

Shannon Taylor

Initiative to Expand ECC NPCT Boundaries

Update: Due to the City’s position on combining NPCTs, we’ve shifted directions. The proposal now is to create a nonprofit corporation dedicated to providing full-time planning, advocacy, and business services, and to redeveloping the neighborhood incrementally. In this model, the ECC Neighborhood Association would be dissolved and replaced by a nonprofit, which would support both the ECC and the Holly neighborhoods. More details to follow.

Background: The ECC NPCT has proposed expanding its boundaries to include the Holly Neighborhood. However, City Staff’s interpretation of the relevant City Code prevents this from happening.

Cap & Stitch is Getting Messy

I-35’s Cap and Stitch Is Getting Messy • The Austin Chronicle

“I know, I’m a downer,” Christine Maguire told the Council members on the city’s Mobility Committee this past December. “I’m a buzzkill. Nobody invites me to meetings anymore.  “But from the financial services point of view, the city’s risk profile has increased.” Maguire, a leader of the Austin Financial Services Department and its resident expert […]

www.austinchronicle.com/news/i-35s-cap-and-stitch-is-getting-messy

Where should we invest $4M in our Neighborhood?

Since 2015, portions of revenue from the East Austin Parking and Transportation Management District (PTMD) have been allocated to our neighborhood. The accumulated funds for East Cesar Chavez are now approximately $4M, which can be allocated to proposed improvement projects or to maintenance of features that improve traffic flow.

Your input can help inform where and how we allocate these funds. Please take a few minutes to complete this survey. Your feedback will help guide safety improvements for everyone—whether walking, biking, driving, or using a wheelchair.

Welcome Dwell Coworking to the Neighborhood

A new coworking option has opened at 1201 E. Cesar Chavez. I personally used Dwell at another location last year, and I love their model. Check them out if you’re looking for workspace. Click the link for more details.

www.dwellcoworking.com/locations/downtown-austin-coworking-space

Save the Date: Community Neighborhood Events

TODAY: Holly Neighborhood Association Quarterly Membership Meeting

Holly Neighborhood Association’s next Quarterly Membership Meeting will be Tuesday, February 17, 2026, from 6:30-7:30 PM at the Mendez Recreation Center in Metz Park.

Note: Holly NA has extended an open invitation to all ECC neighbors to participate in their community events.

Agenda:

• City of Austin Conservation Program manager Katie Duffy will present and answer questions about native and adaptive plants for our area.

• Application information to have Treefolks to deliver free trees to your home will be available.

• Holly NA and East Cesar Chavez Neighborhood Group Board member Ryan Sanders will discuss an initiative started by neighbors with the help of the American Institute of Architects in Austin to activate and beautify the alley ways in our area.

• Updates on Holly NA events,  development in our area, and a short Members open forum time.

CapMetro Design Update: Tuesday, March 10

CapMetro and the City of Austin are working together to make the Red Line train and nearby trails better between Navasota St and Robert T Martinez Jr. St. These updates will help make your ride safer, faster, and more comfortable—and give better access to the trail. Come to their public meeting March 10, from 6–7:30 PM at the Terrazas Branch Library to learn about the final designs and talk with our project team.

Holly NA Jam/Karaoke Night: Sunday, March 28

A night of local performers and some open mic karaoke is being planned at Esquina Tango. Final times and details will be announced later, but save the date!

Save the Date: Local City Events

2026 Lunar New Year Festival Austin: Feb 22

A one-day celebration in East Austin with local artists and food vendors, performances, and more! General Admission is donation-based. This festival is open to everyone to attend and celebrate. There is an optional suggested donation $10-$15 per person.

The Paper + Craft Pantry 1023 Springdale Road
Sunday, Feb 22 from 11 am to 5 pm CST

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2026-lunar-new-year-festival-austin-tickets-1979570242885

Health Sciences Open House at Austin Community College

We’re excited to invite you and your Neighborhood Association to the ACC Health Sciences Open House at Austin Community College District’s Eastview Campus.

This free community event offers an opportunity to explore rewarding and in-demand healthcare careers and learn how ACC prepares students for success through hands-on training and strong industry connections.

Join us on Saturday, February 28, 2026, where attendees can see career training in action, meet local employers, and enjoy family-friendly activities. Click the link to RSVP.

ACC Health Sciences Open House
Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Location: ACC Eastview Campus
3401 Webberville Road
Austin, TX 78702

campaigns.austincc.edu/events/health-sciences-open-house

STEM Girl Day at UT Austin

utexas.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8d26rTtdfXYSJka

Eric Pace, Chair
ECCNA/NPCT

Hello Neighbors,

Happy New Year! Our first neighborhood meeting of 2026 will again take place at the brand-new RBJ Residences (1320 Art Dilly Dr). This month, our focus is on the growing safety and crime issues resulting from I-35 construction and the homeless population. We’ll also establish neighborhood priorities for 2026.

Please read below for the full agenda and updates!

Table of Contents

• Announcements

  • New: ECC Homeless Task Force Launch

  • Where should we invest $4M in our Neighborhood?

• Save the Date: Community Neighborhood Events

  • Holly Neighborhood Association Quarterly Membershi …

  • 2026 Austin Marathon

  • Holly NA Jam/Karaoke Night: Sunday, March 28

• Save the Date: Local City Events

  • DAA: Issues Over Lunch: Infrastructure in MotionDo …

  • Raising Travis County Town HallRaising Travis Coun …

• Neighborhood Initiatives

  • Initiative to Expand ECC NPCT Boundaries

  • Hybrid Parking Initiative Update

Announcements

New: ECC Homeless Task Force Launch

As highlighted in recent neighborhood discussions (particularly issues rising around Terrazas Library, Willow St., and adjacent alleys), residents have faced escalating aggressive behavior, trespassing, trash and biohazards, and personal safety concerns. In response, the ECC Homeless Task Force, led by Shannon Taylor, is being formed to:

• Coordinate neighbor outreach and reporting strategies

• Amplify community concerns with APD, Austin Resource Recovery, public health partners, and city leadership

• Help neighbors prepare for key meetings and public testimony

• Centralize information on encampments, 311/911 reporting impacts, and cleanup support

Immediate Actions You Can Take:

• Reply to this email to join the email distribution and/or attend today’s ECCNPCT meeting to discuss next steps.

• Central Health Board Meeting (Jan 28th): Join neighbors in asking Central Health to stop allowing camping on their property and assist in cleanup. You can speak via Zoom or in person. To sign up, call 512-978-9190 and leave a voicemail. Please coordinate with Shannon if you plan to attend!

• February Neighborhood Meeting with APD: Officer Martinez (APD’s Community Liaison) is organizing a meeting with city officials specifically for our area. Stay tuned for the date and time.

• Report Every Incident: Use 911/311 and the 311 Online Portal to report trash, public defecation, or drug paraphernalia. These reports create a data trail that helps APD and Austin Resource Recovery justify assigning more patrols and cleaning crews to 78702.

• Call or email Council Member Velasquez’s office to request increased APD enforcement and cleanup resources.

Where should we invest $4M in our Neighborhood?

Since 2015, portions of revenue from the East Austin Parking and Transportation Management District (PTMD) have been allocated to our neighborhood. The accumulated funds for East Cesar Chavez are now approximately $4M, which can be allocated to proposed improvement projects or to maintenance of features that improve traffic flow.

Your input can help inform where and how we allocate these funds. Please take a few minutes to complete this survey. Your feedback will help guide safety improvements for everyone—whether walking, biking, driving, or using a wheelchair.

Save the Date: Community Neighborhood Events

Holly Neighborhood Association Quarterly Membership Meeting

Holly Neighborhood Association’s next Quarterly Membership Meeting will be Tuesday, February 17, 2026, from 6:30-7:30 PM at the Mendez Recreation Center in Metz Park.

The meeting will include neighborhood and local development updates, and feature an in-depth presentation and slide show on Planting with Native and Adaptive Plants from Denise Delaney, Environmental Program Coordinator with the City of Austin.

Denise will educate us on why our neighborhood has soil unlike other areas of Austin, the advantages and disadvantages of specific plants for our area, and there will be lots of time for specific questions.

Note: Holly NA has extended an open invitation to all ECC neighbors to participate in their community events.

2026 Austin Marathon

The Austin Marathon will again come directly down East Cesar Chavez for the final stretch. You can see the route map here. 

The Trail Conservancy will be manning the final aid station. You can volunteer to join them by signing up here.

Holly NA Jam/Karaoke Night: Sunday, March 28

A night of local performers and some open mic karaoke is being planned at Esquina Tango. Final times and details will be announced later, but save the date!

Save the Date: Local City Events

DAA: Issues Over Lunch: Infrastructure in Motion

Downtown Austin is entering a pivotal era of economic transformation, fueled by major infrastructure and mobility investments that will define the city’s growth for generations. This session will offer stakeholders timely insights into transformative projects—including the Austin Convention Center expansion, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport improvements, I-35 reconstruction, and Austin Light Rail —and explore how these developments will shape downtown’s future. Together, these catalytic investments promise to enhance connectivity, accessibility, and quality of life, while reinforcing Austin’s position as a premier destination for business, innovation, and investment.

www.eventbrite.com/e/issues-over-lunch-infrastructure-in-motion-tickets-1859518914129

Neighborhood Initiatives

Initiative to Expand ECC NPCT Boundaries

Update: We’re awaiting guidance from the City Staff planning department to confirm our next steps.

Background: The ECC NPCT has made a proposal to expand its boundaries to include the Holly Neighborhood.

Hybrid Parking Initiative Update

Update: Phase 1 of the Hybrid Parking plan is now underway!

Background: The ECC Team is working with the City to develop a “hybrid” parking zone to help alleviate parking challenges across the ECC neighborhood. You can see the proposed plan here.

Thanks for participating in our community! -ep

Eric Pace, Chair
ECCNA/NPCT

Hello Neighbors,

Our November neighborhood meeting will be VIRTUAL (online) only. This month, we’ll continue discussing the future of the ECCNPCT boundaries along with several planning topics, including proposed public school closures, pedestrian safety, and funding for new sidewalks.

Please read below for the full agenda and updates.

Table of Contents

• Announcements

  • Help Inform Pedestrian Safety Improvement in our N …

  • Martin Middle School Selected for Closure

  • ECC Request to Add Noise Enforcement to the 2026 A …

• Save the Date: Community Events

  • Eastside Songwriters Showcase

• Construction Updates

• Neighborhood Initiatives

  • Initiative to Expand ECC NPCT Boundaries

  • Hybrid Parking Initiative Update

  • Angel House / Homeless Neighborhood Initiative

Announcements

Help Inform Pedestrian Safety Improvement in our Neighborhood

Since 2015, portions of revenue from the East Austin Parking and Transportation Management District (PTMD) have been allocated to our neighborhood. The accumulated funds for East Cesar Chavez are now approximately $4M, which can be allocated to proposed improvement projects or to maintenance of features that improve traffic flow.

Your input can help inform where and how we allocate these funds. Please take a few minutes to complete this survey. Your feedback will help guide safety improvements for everyone—whether walking, biking, driving, or using a wheelchair.

Martin Middle School Selected for Closure

On November 14, the Austin school district released its final recommendation for school closures, which will close 10 campuses, move its four “wall-to-wall” dual-language schools, and relocate its Montessori campus. Martin Middle School is one of two middle schools on the closure list and represents the last operating public middle school in East Austin.

The final vote is scheduled for November 20th, and our team will discuss a letter at today’s community meeting. You can read more about the impending closures here.

ECC Request to Add Noise Enforcement to the 2026 Audit Plan

Last month, ECCNPCT sent a letter to City Council requesting Noise Enforcement as part of the 2026 Audit Plan. Read the full letter

Noise complaints are the second most common 311 complaint in the City, with more than 20,000 calls between January and October, and the vast majority of these complaints are routed to APD despite officers having little recourse once on site. Meanwhile, DSD’s sound enforcement team, which is capable of resolving many of these cases, doesn’t have the authority to respond to most complaints.

You can read the letter here.

Save the Date: Community Events

Eastside Songwriters Showcase

Join neighbors for a night of local music and pizza!

All ages. No ticket/rsvp required for entry. $10 suggested donation for the bands.

Details are available here.

Construction Updates

Longhorn Dam Multimodal Improvements Project Update - November 2025

City of Austin permitted construction hours are Monday - Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. and Saturday, 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Click here for the full update: publicinput.com/Email/i014246

I-35 Closures and Schedules

Schedule Change

• Construction began working in two 10-hour shifts at the Brushy Street drop shaft construction site under I-35.

• First shift is 6:00 am to 4:00 pm, and the second shift will be from 4:00 pm to 2:00 am.

Closures

Flores Street between the northbound I-35 frontage road and Waller Street is closed until Friday, Nov. 21 as crews perform utility work. Drivers will detour via Clermont Avenue to access the area. 

As a reminder, the following closures are in effect:

• The northbound I-35 Cesar Chavez entrance ramp is closed through early 2026.

• The southbound I-35 frontage road at River Street is closed through mid-2028.

• The Brushy Street entrance at both East Cesar Chavez Street and the northbound I-35 frontage road is closed through 2029.

• Long-term closures: Email notifications and Central project segment webpages.

  • Lady Bird Lake segment

  • Drainage Tunnel and Pump Station segment

• Short-term closures or traffic impacts: X posts (formerly Twitter) @TxDOTAustin.

• Localized neighborhood access or detour: NextDoor posts.

Convention Center

Mass Excavation Underway

Demolition of the existing convention center structure was completed last month, and mass excavation has officially begun and is expected to continue through Summer 2026. This rock excavation occurs 30’ below grade, which helps reduce some sound transmission, but will still be audible in the surrounding area.

Signage and Traffic Flow Improvements

• New perimeter barricade signage is being prepared for installation along 4th Street and the covered walkway on Cesar Chavez.

• The City is reviewing a traffic plan that will add new lane markers along the northbound and southbound lanes on Red River between 4th and 5th Streets to help guide vehicles safely and improve access to and from the Hilton.

Likewise, Convention Center construction has expanded to seven days a week:

• Weekdays: 7:00 am – 8:00 pm

• Weekends: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM

• Sunday Work: In most cases, work will occur every Sunday. While there may be exceptions, a 7-day work week is the current norm.

• While crews are permitted to work through 10:30 PM, evening activity will only occur when necessary to keep the project on track and minimize overall duration. 

Neighborhood Initiatives

Initiative to Expand ECC NPCT Boundaries

Update: We’re awaiting guidance from City Staff planning department to confirm our next steps.

Background: The ECC NPCT has made a proposal to expand it’s boundaries to include the Holly Neighborhood.

Hybrid Parking Initiative Update

Update: Phase 1 of the Hybrid Parking plan will begin in January 2026.

Background: The ECC Team is working with the City to develop a “hybrid” parking zone to help alleviate parking challenges across the ECC neighborhood. You can see the proposed plan here.

Angel House / Homeless Neighborhood Initiative

Update: No substantive updates from City Staff or APD to report. We have not heard from City Staff or APD in over five months.

Background: Our community collectively sent a detailed letter to Mayor Watson, City Manager Broadnax, and City Council outlining shared concerns and requesting immediate support for the ECC neighborhood. The letter was endorsed by a broad cross-section of our community, including members from 25 small business and non-profit organizations, and included 50 impact statements. Our team is now meeting monthly with David Gray, Homeless Strategy Office, to discuss progress and share feedback.

Thanks for participating in our community! -ep

Eric Pace, Chair
ECCNA/NPCT

Hello neighbors,

Fall is my favorite season in Austin, and what better way to kick it off than connecting with friends in the East Cesar Chavez and Holly neighborhoods to celebrate our first responders.

Earlier this year, my family experienced a house fire. It was sudden, overwhelming, and frightening, but the Austin Fire Department, Austin Police Department and EMS showed up with incredible speed, professionalism, and care. They performed their duties flawlessly, but also treated us with compassion. It’s something that we are eternally grateful for.

I hope nobody has to experience this type of an emergency, but if you do, it’s great to know that these incredible professionals are a part of our community. And we should take time to connect + celebrate them.

National Night Out is an annual opportunity to do that and connect as a community to celebrate the things that make this such a wonderful neighborhood. This year, we want to reestablish an annual NNO tradition as a unified ECC/Holly neighborhood event.

Please read below for details!

Table of Contents

• NATIONAL NIGHT OUT BLOCK PARTY

  • What’s happening

    • Art, Fun, and Kids Zone

    • Civic & Community

    • Food & Local Businesses FEATURING Mr. Natural, Hol …

  • Who’s invited

  • What to bring

  • Want to contribute?

  • Transportation & Parking

• BBQ Sale: Emmanuel United Methodist Church, Saturd …

• Austin EcoFest @ Bartholomew Park – Saturday, Nove …

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT BLOCK PARTY

East Cesar Chavez & Holly Neighborhoods
Tuesday, October 7 · 6PM
Christ Church (112 Medina St.)
Set‑up 4–6 PM ·

Join your neighbors for safety, community, and fun

Meet local first responders, connect with neighborhood groups, enjoy music and games, kids activities, and grab dinner and swag from local vendors.

What’s happening

Art, Fun, and Kids Zone

Civic & Community

Food & Local Businesses FEATURING Mr. Natural, Holey Moley Golf Club, Cosmic Saltillo, and Chalmers Austin.

Who’s invited

Everyone in East Cesar Chavez and Holly — families, friends, and neighbors. Bring the kids!

What to bring

Chairs or picnic blanket • Water bottles • Your neighbors 😃 

Want to contribute?

Do you have art to share? Special recipes? Are you a local business that wants to connect with neighbors? We still have opportunities for businesses/individual contributors to participate. Please reply this this email or call/text me no later than Monday, October 6!

• Donate food or gift cards

• Bring games

• Volunteers welcome for set‑up (4–6 PM), activity stations, and clean‑up.

• Take the lead for an event table. Email: eastccnpt@gmail.com 

Transportation & Parking

Christ Church has bicycle parking for those riding over.

For those driving, Christ Church has dedicated parking, and overflow parking is available at Emmanuel United Methodist Church (200 Brushy St.)

**Hosted in partnership with Christ Church and neighborhood volunteers. Programs and appearances subject to change based on availability. 🙂 

BBQ Sale: Emmanuel United Methodist Church, Saturday, October 11

Austin EcoFest @ Bartholomew Park – Saturday, November 1

Austin EcoFest is a family friendly event hosted by Windsor Park Neighborhood Association Saturday, November 1 from 10 to 1pm. 

There will be kids arts and crafts, live music, neighborhood food, a fire truck, a performance by the Joyce Willett School of Dance, and appearances by Congressmen Lloyd Doggett and Greg Casar.  There will be representatives from local environmental and climate organizations like Sierra Club, Austin Climate Parents and Bat Conservation International.

Tree Folks will give away over 500 drought tolerant trees of various species, both tall shade trees and mid-size to fit any yard situation. Austin residents are eligible for two trees. There will be tree planting demonstrations during the event. Free Mulch will be available with bags to carry it home.

The Windsor Park Climate Committee will provide a Tree ID tour of Bartholomew Park, seed clusters from the Enlivenment Committee, free plant swap, and activities from local schools. Surrounding neighborhoods will also participate including Pecan Springs, MLK, East Cesar Chavez, St. John’s, and North Loop.

If you cannot come to EcoFest, contact submit this form and sign up for home delivery.

Excited to connect and spend time with you all!

Best,

Eric Pace

Hello Neighbors,

Our September neighborhood meeting will again take at the brand new RBJ Residences (1320 Art Dilly Dr). This month, we’ll continue planning several Fall events and discuss several topics including proposed school closures.

Please read below for the full agenda and updates.

Table of Contents

• Announcements

  • RBJ Center Transformation Complete

  • Noticed That Our Neighborhood Needs More Trees?

• Save the Date: Community Events

  • Aerial Dance Performance at RBJ: Blue Lapis Light’ …

  • Hispanic Latino Heritage Month Celebration @ Terra …

  • Energy Tax Credits East Austin Home Tour – Saturda …

  • ECC National Night Out – Tuesday, October 7th

  • Austin EcoFest @ Bartholomew Park – Saturday, Nove …

• Construction Updates

  • I-35 Closures and Schedules

  • Convention Center

• Neighborhood Initiatives

  • Hybrid Parking Initiative Update

  • Angel House / Homeless Neighborhood Initiative

Announcements

RBJ Center Transformation Complete

Many of us know the iconic tower at the edge of Lady Bird Lake as the RBJ Center, the first high-rise ever built in East Austin, named after President Johnson’s mother, Rebekah Baines Johnson.

After more than a decade of planning, the nonprofit that manages RBJ, Austin Geriatric Center, has completely transformed the property, expanding to over 500 affordable senior apartments across two buildings:

• The Ladybird, opened in 2022

• The Rebekah, formerly the RBJ Tower, renovated and reopened last month.

The site also now includes improved amenities like a fitness center, art room, theater, on-site food pantry, and a sky lounge with views of downtown. Rents for income-qualified seniors start as low as $590/month, all bills paid.

To learn more about the nonprofit behind the project, visit rbjseniorhousing.org. For leasing info, visit rbjresidences.com.

Also, September’s meeting will again be hosted by the newly constructed RBJ Residences (1320 Art Dilly Dr), in the Ladybird Community Center on the first floor. Free parking is available in the garage on on the street, and the Community Center is accessible from the front entrance.

Do you know a great location to host a neighborhood meeting? Please reply to this email and let us know!

Noticed That Our Neighborhood Needs More Trees?

First, thanks to many of you volunteered to help with tree planting across the neighborhood! As this effort is well outside my expertise, I’m working to enlist the help of our neighborhood experts at the Fiesta Beach Community Garden Garden & Food Forrest. I’m also hoping to bring in support from the “The Shade Brigade.”

The Shade Brigade training was designed last year for the Windsor Park Neighborhood Association and has expanded to St. John's, North Loop, and MLK.

There are ongoing training sessions, and we could potentially organize one specifically for our Neighborhood, perhaps jointly with the Holly Neighborhood. Here’s a recent presentation about the Shade Brigade training. Please reply to this email if you’d like to see this training made available in our neighborhood!

Save the Date: Community Events

Aerial Dance Performance at RBJ: Blue Lapis Light’s Urban Dreaming – September 18-28:

Blue Lapis Light has selected RBJ as the stage for its newest work, Urban Dreaming—an immersive movement opera that scales RBJ’s 16-story building, "blending aerial dance with live music to explore connection, memory, and transformation." Learn more here: Urban Dreaming 2025. Prime seating has been sold out, but you can still grab $25 General Seating and $45 General Admission seats! Click here to purchase tickets.

Dates: September 18 – 21 and 25 – 28.

Performance Time: 8:15 – 9:19 PM, Doors at 7:45 PM.

Hispanic Latino Heritage Month Celebration @ Terrazas Branch Library – Saturday, September 27

Alas, the soccer tournament will not happen for this event. But the library is still hosting a great event for the community. Here’s the updated plan:

• Snacks and children's crafts

• Mauricio Callejas Trio will play 1:00-2:00 PM

• Silly Sparkles' crew will have face painting and balloon animals 1:00-3:00 PM

• Melisamba, a Brazilian Samba dance company, will perform 2:00-3:00 PM

• Tusuy Sonqo-Peru, a Peruvian Dance Group, will perform 3:00-4:00 PM

• Click here for additional details.

Energy Tax Credits East Austin Home Tour – Saturday, September 27

Don’t leave energy tax credits on the table! Austin residents are coming together in a grassroots, non-commercial effort to help neighbors take advantage of federal home energy upgrade tax credits before they expire at the end of the year. Whether you own or rent, learn from fellow Austinites about the range of improvements you can make to lower your household’s energy bills and planetary impact.

Stop by a neighbor’s home to see energy improvements in action: 

9:30-11 am, East Austin Home Tour @ 4604 Cedar Point Drive.

ECC National Night Out –  Tuesday, October 7th

National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie. ECC plans to host an event this year in partnership with APD at a local church or business. Several potential locations have generously offered to host this year:

• Christ Church of Austin

• The RBJ Center

• Holy Moley

• At a joint location with Holly Neighborhood Association.

Where would you like to see a community event? Please hit reply and let us know. Our submission to APD is due Sep 27.

Austin EcoFest @ Bartholomew Park – Saturday, November 1

Austin EcoFest is a family friendly event hosted by Windsor Park Neighborhood Association Saturday, November 1 from 10 to 1pm. 

There will be kids arts and crafts, live music, neighborhood food, a fire truck, a performance by the Joyce Willett School of Dance, and appearances by Congressmen Lloyd Doggett and Greg Casar.  There will be representatives from local environmental and climate organizations like Sierra Club, Austin Climate Parents and Bat Conservation International.

Tree Folks will give away over 500 drought tolerant trees of various species, both tall shade trees and mid-size to fit any yard situation. Austin residents are eligible for two trees. There will be tree planting demonstrations during the event. Free Mulch will be available with bags to carry it home.

The Windsor Park Climate Committee will provide a Tree ID tour of Bartholomew Park, seed clusters from the Enlivenment Committee, free plant swap, and activities from local schools. Surrounding neighborhoods will also participate including Pecan Springs, MLK, East Cesar Chavez, St. John’s, and North Loop.

If you cannot come to EcoFest, contact submit this form and sign up for home delivery.

Construction Updates

I-35 Closures and Schedules

There are no new closures to report for our neighborhood. However, there are two schedule updates:

• Construction began working in two 10-hour shifts at the Cesar Chavez Street and I-35 drop shaft construction site under I-35.

• First shift will be 6:00 am to 4:00 pm, and the second shift will be from 4:00 pm to 2:00 am.

As a reminder, the following closures are in effect:

• The northbound I-35 Cesar Chavez entrance ramp is closed through early 2026.

• The southbound I-35 frontage road at River Street is closed through mid-2028.

• The Brushy Street entrance at both East Cesar Chavez Street and the northbound I-35 frontage road is closed through 2029.

• Long-term closures: Email notifications and Central project segment webpages.

  • Lady Bird Lake segment

  • Drainage Tunnel and Pump Station segment

• Short-term closures or traffic impacts: X posts (formerly Twitter) @TxDOTAustin.

• Localized neighborhood access or detour: NextDoor posts.

Convention Center

Likewise, Convention Center construction has expanded to seven days a week:

• Weekdays: 7:00 am – 8:00 pm

• Weekends: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM

• Sunday Work: In most cases, work will occur every Sunday. While there may be exceptions, a 7-day work week is the current norm.

Neighborhood Initiatives

Hybrid Parking Initiative Update

Update: City Staff recently provided a detailed update to the Community Development Commission with details about Phase 1 beginning in October. You can see the presentation here.

Background: The ECC Team is working with the City to develop a “hybrid” parking zone to help alleviate parking challenges across the ECC neighborhood.

Angel House / Homeless Neighborhood Initiative

Update: No substantive updates from City Staff or APD to report. We have not heard from City Staff or APD in over three months.

Background: Our community collectively sent a detailed letter to Mayor Watson, City Manager Broadnax, and City Council outlining shared concerns and requesting immediate support for the ECC neighborhood. The letter was endorsed by a broad cross-section of our community, including members from 25 small business and non-profit organizations, and included 50 impact statements. Our team is now meeting monthly with David Gray, Homeless Strategy Office, to discuss progress and share feedback.

Thanks for participating in our community! -ep

Eric Pace, Chair
ECCNA/NPCT

Hello Neighbors,

Our August neighborhood meeting will take at the brand new RBJ Residences (1320 Art Dilly Dr). This month, we’ll focus on planning Fall events and proposed updates to our bylaws. See below for the full agenda and updates.

Table of Contents

• Announcements

  • Meeting Location for August

  • Noticed That Our Neighborhood Needs More Trees?

• Events

  • Pride 2025 Parade + Festival

  • SAVE THE DATE: COMMUNITY EVENTS

    • Saturday, September 27: WHAT’S UP BARRIO?

    • Tuesday, October 7th: ECC National Night Out

• I-35 Contruction Updates

  • Closures and Communications

  • What’s behind the Huge Sound Walls?

• Neighborhood Initiatives

  • Hybrid Parking Initiative Update

  • Angel House / Homeless Neighborhood Initiative

Announcements

Meeting Location for August

To connect with more people and places in our neighborhood, ECC is periodically meeting at different locations in the neighborhood. August’s meeting will be hosted by the newly constructed RBJ Residences (1320 Art Dilly Dr), in the Ladybird Community Center on the first floor. Free parking is available in the garage on on the street, and the Community Center is accessible from the front entrance.

Do you know a great location to host a neighborhood meeting? Please reply to this email and let us know!

Noticed That Our Neighborhood Needs More Trees?

Great, you’re not alone! Numerous folks have reached out to highlight new grant opportunities from the City. According to the City’s Tree Priority map, we do need more trees.

ECC can apply on behalf of our neighborhood, but that begs the questions: which parts of our neighborhood have the most need, and who can lead the effort to plant them? Please reply to this email if you have ideas, inputs or want to volunteer.

Below, I’ve highlighted two grant opportunities currently available:

Events

Pride 2025 Parade + Festival

Austin PRIDE is hosting a free festival at Festival Beach Garden on Saturday, August 23rd, starting at 11am for ages 21+. IDs must be presented at the Gate to receive a Festival Wristband.

The free Parade starts at 8pm, on Saturday, August 23rd, at the Capitol, marching down Congress and ending at the Congress Bridge/ Cesar Chavez.

Visit the link for more event details, FAQs, and parking information.

https://austinpride.org/pride-2025/

SAVE THE DATE: COMMUNITY EVENTS

Saturday, September 27: WHAT’S UP BARRIO?

ECC & Austin Public Library are co-hosting a neighborhood event at Terrazas Library on September 27 that will include a Soccer Tournament, Food Trucks, Music, and Kid-friendly activities.

Tuesday, October 7th: ECC National Night Out

National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie. ECC plans to host an event this year in partnership with APD and a local church or business. Please reply to this email if you would like participate in planning the event.

I-35 Contruction Updates

Closures and Communications

As many of you have no doubt observed, there’s been flurry of construction around the entrance of our neighborhood. TXDoT has notified us of the following closures:

• The northbound I-35 Cesar Chavez entrance ramp is closed through early 2026.

• The southbound I-35 frontage road at River Street is closed through mid-2028.

• The Brushy Street entrance at both East Cesar Chavez Street and the northbound I-35 frontage road is closed through 2029.

We’ve received feedback that perhaps a more timely information would help with daily commutes, and we’re working with TXDoT on improving communication going forward. In the meantime, please note the following resources:

• Long-term closures: Email notifications and Central project segment webpages.

  • Lady Bird Lake segment

  • Drainage Tunnel and Pump Station segment

• Short-term closures or traffic impacts: X posts (formerly Twitter) @TxDOTAustin.

• Localized neighborhood access or detour: NextDoor posts.

What’s behind the Huge Sound Walls?

The short answer is, they’re digging very big holes. To see how big, take a look at the video below.

Twitter tweet

Federal Funding Update

You may have recently read in the news that the Federal government rescinded a $105M grant previously awarded for the I-35 caps adjacent to our neighborhood, and you maybe wondering, “should I be worried?”

For now, the answer is no. City Council remains committed to capping the highway regardless of federal funding. The City (and taxpayers) will have to figure out ways to close the gap, but the next administration could decide restore the funding. We’ll keep you updated.

Neighborhood Initiatives

Hybrid Parking Initiative Update

Update: City Staff recently provided a detailed update to the Community Development Commission with details about Phase 1 beginning in October. You can see the presentation here.

Background: The ECC Team is working with the City to develop a “hybrid” parking zone to help alleviate parking challenges across the ECC neighborhood.

Angel House / Homeless Neighborhood Initiative

Update: No substantive updates from City Staff or APD to report.

Background: Our community collectively sent a detailed letter to Mayor Watson, City Manager Broadnax, and City Council outlining shared concerns and requesting immediate support for the ECC neighborhood. The letter was endorsed by a broad cross-section of our community, including members from 25 small business and non-profit organizations, and included 50 impact statements. Our team is now meeting monthly with David Gray, Homeless Strategy Office, to discuss progress and share feedback.

Thanks for participating in our community! -ep

Eric Pace, Chair
ECCNA/NPCT

Hello Neighbors,

Our July neighborhood meeting has been rescheduled for Wednesday, July 23 and will take place at a new venue hosted by ARUP (1800 E. 4th St, Suite 133). This month, we’ll focus on the ECC Vision Plan and proposed updates to our bylaws. See below for the full agenda and updates.

Table of Contents

• Texas Floods

• Announcements

  • New Meeting Locations for the Summer

  • The Trail Conservancy: Call for Artists to support …

  • ADA Transition Plans for Pedestrian Crossings and …

• Updates from the Redline Parkway Initiative

  • East 5th St. / Plaza Saltillo Area

  • CapMetro Bikeshare Expands Along the Parkway

  • Community Vision Plan Update

• Neighborhood Initiatives

  • Angel House / Homeless Neighborhood Initiative

  • Hybrid Parking Initiative Update

Texas Floods

The catastrophic flooding across the Texas Hill Country has impacted folks across the state and beyond. If you or a neighbor has been impacted directly or indirectly, please reply and let us know if there's any way that the community can help with recovery.

Neighbors across Austin have been volunteering to help and finding creative ways to help raise money. Below are few highlighted nearby events and ways to contribute.

TOGETHER FOR TEXAS - Benefit Show Supporting Victims of the Kerr County Floods at The Far Out Lounge

Friday, July 25, 4:00pm $15 / ALL AGES

www.tickettailor.com/events/thefaroutloungestage/1782087

Announcements

New Meeting Locations for the Summer

To connect with more people and places in our neighborhood, ECC is periodically meeting at different locations in the neighborhood. July’s meeting will be hosted by ARUP, located at 1800 E. 4th St, Suite 133. ARUP's office entrance is located on the corner of 5th and Chicon. The main door is off the small courtyard at ground level, and there is free parking on 4th street and some on 5th. (See image below.)

ARUP's office entrance is located on the corner of 5th and Chicon. The main door is off the small courtyard at ground level, and there is free parking on 4th and 5th Streets.

In August, we’ll be hosted by the RBJ Center, and in September we’re tentatively planning to make our first return to the Terrazas Branch Library since C19.

Do you know a great location to host a neighborhood meeting? Please reply to this email and let us know!

The Trail Conservancy: Call for Artists to support the Eastside Family Garden Project

The Trail Conservancy is currently looking for an artist to join our design team for the Eastside Family Garden (next to the baseball fields), located in the Holly Shores area along the Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail.

This is not a call for a standalone public art piece. TTC is seeking a creative collaborator who will work closely with landscape architects and project team to weave artistic expression into all aspects of the space—from shade structures and nature play features to storytelling elements.

Deadline to apply: Friday, July 28, 2025 at 5:00 PM CDT

Application and Info

Google Interest Form

ADA Transition Plans for Pedestrian Crossings and Urban Trails

The City of Austin wants to hear from you on its Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Transition Plans for Pedestrian Crossings and Urban Trails. Do you encounter accessibility barriers on the Red Line Parkway or other urban trails and sidewalks? Take the survey by Thursday 7/31.

Updates from the Redline Parkway Initiative

East 5th St. / Plaza Saltillo Area

CapMetro Bikeshare Expands Along the Parkway

Community Vision Plan Update

Neighborhood Initiatives

Angel House / Homeless Neighborhood Initiative

Update: No substantive updates from City Staff to report.

Background: Our community collectively sent a detailed letter to Mayor Watson, City Manager Broadnax, and City Council outlining shared concerns and requesting immediate support for the ECC neighborhood. The letter was endorsed by a broad cross-section of our community, including members from 25 small business and non-profit organizations, and included 50 impact statements. Our team is now meeting monthly with David Gray, Homeless Strategy Office, to discuss progress and share feedback.

Hybrid Parking Initiative Update

Update: No substantive updates from City Staff to report.

Background: The ECC Team is working with the City to develop a “hybrid” parking zone to help alleviate parking challenges across the ECC neighborhood. For more details on the initiative, please see the presentation here.

Thanks for participating in our community! -ep

Eric Pace, Chair
ECCNA/NPCT

Hello Neighbors,

After a few weeks of intense debate and advocacy, Austin City Council voted 8–2–1 to approve funding for the roadway elements, preserving the ability to cap several acres of I-35.

Thanks to everyone who called in, emailed, or showed up. This is a major win, but the work is just beginning. The City will have future funding rounds to actually install caps as well as determining the programming to include in the final design.

We’ll discuss these details and more at tomorrow’s meeting. This month we will primarily focus on striking a balance between supporting businesses with residential quality of life and continuing work on planning for a new ECC Vision Plan and Fall community event. Please read below for more details!

Table of Contents

• Announcements

  • The Compromise: Mayor Kirk Watson’s Stroke of Geni …

  • Why This Matters

  • 🌳 Help Adopt Comal Pocket Park!

  • 🎨 Got a Wall that Needs Art? Help Bring a Climate …

• Outdoor Music Venue Permits

  • The Scoot Inn Permit Renewal

Announcements

The Compromise: Mayor Kirk Watson’s Stroke of Genius

Last month, we asked you to speak up, and you did. Hundreds of Austinites called, emailed, and showed up to make their voices heard on the future of the I-35 caps. While we didn’t get everything we fought for, our advocacy clearly made a real impact.

To recap, my last update detailed how Mayor Watson announced his opposition to funding for most of the caps, which have eliminated the possibility of caps over 4.5 of the 9 acres originally planned in and around East Cesar Chavez.

But thanks to strong public pressure, including many of you, the outcome changed..

🧩 What City Council Approved

On May 22, Council cast an 8–2 vote (with 1 abstention) to fund the roadway foundations for caps between:

• Cesar Chavez – 4th St

• 4th – 7th St

• 11th – 12th St

• Two stitches (pedestrian/cyclist bridges) in North Austin along the Red Line  .

Why This Matters

The vote wasn’t about building parks today — it was about preserving the option to build them tomorrow. Without funding the structural base now, those caps would’ve been off the table forever. This decision protects the potential for a more connected, walkable, and equitable central Austin.

The 4th–6th Street caps, in particular, are essential to reconnecting cultural anchors of our neighborhood:

• The 5th Street Mexican American Heritage Corridor

• Plaza Saltillo

• The Palm School

• The MACC (Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center)

What Comes Next

This is just the starting point. There are future funding rounds, not to mention an actual decision on what goes on the caps. Stay tuned!

I-35 Cap Locations

🌳 Help Adopt Comal Pocket Park!

Join your neighbors for an exciting opportunity to help revitalize Comal Pocket Park! Barry Rivera from Austin Parks & Rec will be hosting a community meeting to share how the City can support us in adopting and improving the park.

🗓 Saturday, June 28 @ 9am
📍 Comal Pocket Park (Comal & Willow)

Come learn how we can work together to make the park safer, greener, and more welcoming. Whether you’re interested in gardening, safety improvements, or just supporting more public space in East Cesar Chavez, your contribution is welcome.

Bring: a hat, sunscreen, water, and bug spray

Open to all neighbors — spread the word!

Big thanks to our ECC neighbor Debra Johnson for spearheading this effort!

🎨 Got a Wall that Needs Art? Help Bring a Climate Mural to ECC

The Parents’ Climate Community and Chroma Collective are launching a climate-themed mural project in Fall 2025. and they’re looking for a high-visibility wall in East Cesar Chavez to bring it to life.

Organizers are seeking a high-visibility, public-facing wall (approx. 10x12 ft) near affordable housing, schools, or community centers to host the mural. and they’re looking for a high-visibility wall in East Cesar Chavez to bring it to life.

This mural will be informed by intergenerational, community-based workshops focused on climate resilience, with an emphasis on youth and family engagement. The ideal wall is public-facing and in a high-traffic area — think schools, rec centers, businesses, parks, or green spaces.

Do you know a wall that might be a good fit?

We’re helping collect leads.

📩 Reach out to share ideas or suggest locations: eileen@parentsclimatecommunity.org

Want to get involved or invite the organizers to speak at an ECC meeting? Please let us know!

Outdoor Music Venue Permits

The Scoot Inn Permit Renewal

Update: The Scoot Inn has amended its proposed agreement to reduce the maximum # of shows per month from 10 to 8.

Background: In 2023, the Scoot Inn requested to extend the hours for their outdoor music two hours, Sunday-Thursday until 10:00 PM, and one hour Friday & Saturday until 11:00 pm. The neighborhood voted to permit the extended hours subject to special conditions to mitigate local disturbances. You can read the 2023 agreement here.

The Scoot Inn’s Outdoor Music Venue Permit is now up for renewal and is requesting to renew the terms of the 2023 agreement.

• In December, ECCNPCT voted to delay a vote on renewing the agreement until March, allowing time for Scoot to install new sound equipment.

• In March, the ECCNPCT voted against renewing the neighborhood agreement but voted in favor of extending the previous agreement again until June, allowing time for Scoot to make adjustments to its business operations or proposal.

Additional details and documents are available in the agenda for Wednesday's meeting.

There’s a lot at stake for our neighborhood this year, and your participation makes a difference!

See you at a future meeting! -ep

Eric Pace, Chair
ECCNA/NPCT

Hello Neighbors,

With a gloomy financial forecast and early summer heat wave, City Council is preparing to take one of the most consequential infrastructure votes of our era on Thursday.

The heat impacts everyone in one way or another, but Mayor Kirk Watson seems acutely impacted this week because he’s completely lost his bearings. He’s announced (via text) that he’s voting against funding most of the I-35 Caps, which would effectively eliminate 4.5 of the 9 acres of I-35 Caps from the ECC neighborhood (see discussion below).

We’ll discuss how this might impact our community for the next 50+ years along with other critical local issues at tomorrow’s meeting. Please see meeting details and agenda below.

Table of Contents

• Mayor Kirk Watson’s Heat Stroke

  • Call to Action: Email or Call Mayor Watson

  • Want to Learn More?

Heads up: In lieu of our usual announcements and updates, this month’s email focuses solely on the impending I-35 vote.

Mayor Kirk Watson’s Heat Stroke

Heat can make you do strange things. Forget your keys. Snap at a loved one. Vote against the future of your city.

Today, Mayor Kirk Watson finally revealed his position on the I-35 cap-and-stitch project, announcing via text message that he would oppose funding most of the proposed caps—effectively killing 4.5 of the 9 acres of long-promised cap space across the city center in critical areas adjacent to East Cesar Chavez.

Let’s be clear: this isn’t just about shade or green space. Thursday’s vote is about whether to fund the basic infrastructure—not the parks themselves—so that future generations can even have the option to cap the highway. We’re not even being bold. We’re just trying to avoid sealing our fate with concrete. And somehow, even that’s too much to ask.

Austin has a well-earned reputation for failing at long-term planning. Our airport has always been undersized. Our relatively new Convention Center is already being demolished and rebuilt. CodeNEXT failed, and light rail efforts failed for decades. And now, as cities across the country invest in connecting communities with innovative infrastructure, our mayor is choosing to keep Austin’s streak alive.

For someone who ran on a legacy of leadership, this is an incredibly disappointing failure of both imagination and leadership. More cynically, it’s precisely how Mayor Watson planned it. Remember, I-35 expansion was his pet project as Senator. As Mayor, Watson allowed (directed?) City Staff to promote the glory of maximum cap coverage to help justify I-35 expansion until it was funded and approved. Literally one month after breaking ground, the same City office that negotiated and designed all of the Caps with TxDoT suddenly reversed course and recommended downsizing to only two caps to reduce overall costs.

Since then, City Council has been deadlocked for several months: five members pushing for full funding of the infrastructure needed to support all caps, and five supporting the scaled-down version. That makes Mayor Watson the deciding vote.

Throughout months of public meetings, Watson has made no comments during City Council discussions and has refused to indicate his position even in private. Finally today after the end of the Council’s work session on the topic, Mayor Watson sent a text message to two TV reporters announcing his support for the staff recommendation, which will effectively eliminate the possibility for all but two of the caps. That's how everyone, including City Council, discovered his position. 

I rarely get angry at politicians for being duplicitous. It’s about as useful as getting angry at a dog for barking. It’s in their nature. But today, I felt angry.

Ironically, if this vote passes the University of Texas will fund more highway caps than the City of Austin. It was a rather easy, uncontroversial decision for the UT Regents to understand the impact of unifying the East and West campus. It’s unfortunate that Austin’s leaders don’t have the same foresight.

Before they voted, the Regents viewed renderings that looked similar to this:

4th Street Looking North if Mayor Watson Doesn’t Change his position

Perhaps Mayor Watson could use a reminder of what a 20-lane trench looks like at 4th Street, and what we’re locking in for the next century:

4th Street Looking North if Mayor Watson Doesn’t Change his position

As compared an opportunity like this:

4th Street Looking North if Mayor Watson DOES change his position.

I try to give people the benefit of the doubt. So let’s assume this heat wave has clouded the Mayor’s judgment. Let’s help him see clearly. 

Call to Action: Email or Call Mayor Watson

Please urge Mayor Watson to vote yes on funding all roadway elements this Thursday. Let him know that this is a non-negotiable investment to reconnect our City and to preserve the opportunity for future generations. If you feel strongly about this or have ever wanted to make a difference, now is the time to act. If we let this moment pass, we don’t get it back.

• Call Mayor Watson’s assistant, Kate Alexander: 512-978-2333

• Email Mayor Watson: kirk.watson@austintexas.gov

Want to Learn More?

Here’s a short explainer video. Yesterday, I provided a more in depth update on the City Council’s impending vote, and perhaps a more balanced assessment of the opposing position, which you can read here.

There’s a lot at stake for our neighborhood this year, and your participation makes a difference!

I hope to see you at a future meeting! -ep

Eric Pace, Chair
ECCNA/NPCT

Hello neighbors,

Big things are blooming this May across the East Cesar Chavez and Holly neighborhoods, and I thought that I’d share some updates on ribbon cutting ceremonies, new crosswalks, community art, and ways to get involved in shaping our public spaces. Hope to see many of you out at one of these events!

Table of Contents

• New Crosswalks for a Safer ECC

  • 🚸 Crosswalk Ribbon Cutting on East Cesar Chavez a …

  • New Crosswalk at 2nd & Medina Streets

  • May 6 City Council Work Session on Cap & Stitch: F …

  • 🎣 Fishing Pier Ribbon Cutting at Holly ShoresSatu …

  • 🏃‍♀️ Moonlight Margarita Run – Thursday, June 5

New Crosswalks for a Safer ECC

🚸 Crosswalk Ribbon Cutting on East Cesar Chavez at Lynn Street
Friday, May 3 | 9:00–9:45 AM
1917 E Cesar Chavez (Freewheelin Coffee Truck)

Please join Council Member Velasquez, Director of Transportation Richard Mendoza, APD, and neighbors for a short ceremony celebrating the installation of a new pedestrian crosswalk near Lynn Street. This improvement was made possible through sustained community advocacy and partnership with Transportation & Public Works. The new crossing enhances safety along one of our most trafficked corridors and brings us one step closer to a more walkable, people-centered ECC Street.

“1 down, 10 to go.” - Ryan Saunders

Facing Southeast

Facing Northeast

New Crosswalk at 2nd & Medina Streets

Thanks to a direct request from Christ Church and community collaboration, the City recently installed a new pedestrian walkway at the corner of Medina and 2nd St—another great addition and win for improving neighborhood safety.

May 6 City Council Work Session on Cap & Stitch: Fund the Caps (& Stitches!)🚨

City Council will hold a Work Session on Monday, May 6 to discuss funding for I-35 Cap & Stitch improvements. Staff currently recommends only funding caps at Cesar Chavez–4th and 11th–12th, and argues against caps further north and eliminating the “stitches” at Holly Street and ECC. Several council members plan to push back on this narrow approach, but up to three acres of highway coverage are very much at stake for our neighborhood.

🗣️ Neighbors can sign up to speak by Monday at 12 PM using this link: Speaker Registration Form

Let’s make sure our are heard in shaping a safer, greener, and more connected future for Austin.

🎣 Fishing Pier Ribbon Cutting at Holly Shores
Saturday, May 10 | 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
Edward Rendon Sr. Park at Festival Beach

The Trail Conservancy invites ECCNA residents to celebrate the completion of the new Holly Project Fishing Pier. Enjoy music from DJ Wiz, live mural painting by Mando “Tanner” Martinez, and tasty community snacks. Flyer attached.

🎨 Also: TTC is planning a Holly Shores Open House specifically for ECCNA members. If you’re interested in giving feedback on upcoming park projects, let me know—we’re working to schedule a session soon.

🏃‍♀️ Moonlight Margarita Run – Thursday, June 5

Join The Trail Conservancy downtown for their annual nighttime run (and margaritas). Register online thetrailconservancy.org.

Thanks to everyone continuing to push for a safer, more vibrant East Cesar Chavez.

Warmly,

Eric Pace

Hello Neighbors,

We kicked Spring off with a wonderful block party on Willow Street — a huge thanks to everyone who worked to bring the community together! Now, we’re turning our attention to key issues like pedestrian safety, noise compatibility, and planning for our community’s future. Keep reading for important updates and ways to get involved.

Table of Contents

• Announcements

  • Hybrid Parking Survey & Community Meeting

  • New Pedestrian Crossing

• Neighborhood Initiatives

  • Angel House / Homeless Neighborhood Initiative

  • 🚨Fund the Caps!🚨

• Events

  • Holly Neighborhood Yard Sale

  • Preservation Austin’s 2025 Homes Tour: Tickets & V …

  • Holly Shores Community Engagement Events

• Outdoor Music Venue Permits

  • The Scoot Inn Permit Renewal

  • Chalmers ATX Permit Application

• Land Use Updates

  • 1301-1309 E 4th Street Rezoning Request

Announcements

Hybrid Parking Survey & Community Meeting

Please share your opinion about parking in our neighborhood!

The City is considering expanding paid parking into additional areas of the East Cesar Chavez neighborhood to improve street parking availability. This expansion would primarily include hybrid zones that would allow residents to park free through the Residential Permit Parking (RPP) program while requiring members of the public to pay.

To share your feedback on this proposal, you can take this short survey until April 28.

You can also attend the community update meeting:

Location: Christ Church, 112 Medina St
Date: April 29, 2025 , 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

New Pedestrian Crossing

Thanks to the advocacy of one neighbor and ECC team member, there’s a new pedestrian crossing at East Cesar Chavez and Lynn Street! It’s a testament to the power of each participant to make a difference in our neighborhood.

Council Member Velasquez plans to join a ribbon cutting ceremony tentatively on May 3 at 8am. Look for the official announcement soon!

Neighborhood Initiatives

Angel House / Homeless Neighborhood Initiative

Update: Following our meeting in January, APD has shared the following updates related to the requests in our letter:

• HALO cameras east of I-35 have been restored!

• Rather than expand “George” sector eastward to improve police presence here it’s needed most, APD decided to expand the sector west. It’s still unclear why this decision was made, and we’re working to get some answers.

• There are no additional substantive updates on improved staffing or enforcement in our neighborhood at this time.

Background: Our community collectively sent a detailed letter to Mayor Watson, City Manager Broadnax, and City Council outlining shared concerns and requesting immediate support for the ECC neighborhood. The letter was endorsed by a broad cross-section of our community, including members from 25 small business and non-profit organizations, and included 50 impact statements. Our team is now meeting regularly with APD and David Gray, Homeless Strategy Office, to discuss progress and share feedback.

🚨Fund the Caps!🚨

Update: There was interesting discussion about the caps during the City Council’s work session on April 7th. Perhaps the most impactful presentation included renderings of what our City will look like without caps. It’s scary to say the least. Please share with anyone who is unsure or ambivalent about whether Austin should fund the caps.

Background: The City of Austin originally unveiled a vision to cap I-35, reclaiming up to ~26 acres of land. However, City Staff has since recommended a substantially smaller caps project of only 12.5 acres, cutting the highway covered in our neighborhood by over three acres and eliminating the Holly Street portion. Read our neighborhood’s initial response to this proposal here.

On May 31, Austin City Council will vote on whether to fund the Roadway Elements. These foundational, structural, and fire-prevention components must be funded now to preserve the opportunity for caps in the future. If they are not funded, we will not have an opportunity to cover the highway again for the next 90+ years.

This project is vital to connecting East Austin, mitigating environmental harm, and ensuring green space and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure for our community.

Here’s how you can help:
✅ Visit Fundthecaps.com
✅ Email City Council members—let them know you support this project (email link in the website)
✅ Request a FREE yard sign (just reply to this email).
✅ Encourage neighbors to take action before the May 31 vote

Events

Holly Neighborhood Sale

Preservation Austin’s 2025 Homes Tour: Tickets & Volunteer Opportunity

Holly Shores Community Engagement Events

Outdoor Music Venue Permits

The Scoot Inn Permit Renewal

Background: In 2023, the Scoot Inn requested to extend the hours for their outdoor music two hours, Sunday-Thursday until 10:00 PM, and one hour Friday & Saturday until 11:00 pm. The neighborhood voted to permit the extended hours subject to special conditions to mitigate local disturbances. You can read the 2023 agreement here.

The Scoot Inn’s Outdoor Music Venue Permit is now up for renewal and is requesting to renew the terms of the 2023 agreement.

Update: At the March meeting, the ECCNPCT voted against extended hours. The team also voted to give a three month extension to allow time for the Scoot to make adjustments to its business model or submit a new proposal.

Shangra La Permit Renewal

Please see the agenda for details

Chalmers ATX Permit Application

Please see the agenda for details

Land Use Updates

1301-1309 E 4th Street Rezoning Request

UPDATE: This proposal is for the remaining three lots, 1301, 1303, 1305 E. 4th Street. The applicant has updated the proposal with a more comprehensive site plan with a 45’/60’ split elevation and a 20’ setback from residents across the alley.

Background:

• The applicant seeks to change the zoning from Live/Work Flex to TOD Mixed Use with a maximum height of 60 feet. 15% of the square footage is dedicated to affordable housing. The applicant updated the proposal with a more comprehensive plan for the block and two different height elevation options at 50’ or split at 45’/60’.

• The adjacent neighbors prepared a presentation and initiated a valid zoning petition in opposition. City Staff validated the neighbor’s zoning petition in opposition.

There’s a lot at stake for our neighborhood this year, and your participation makes a difference!

See you at a future meeting! -ep

Eric Pace, Chair
ECCNA/NPCT

Hello Neighbors,

I hope everyone enjoyed (or survived) Spring Break and SXSW! This month we will primarily focus on striking a balance between supporting businesses with residential quality of life and continuing work on planning for a new ECC Vision Plan and Fall community event. Please read below for more details!

Table of Contents

• Announcements

  • 🚨 Fund the Caps! Call to Action 🚨

• Neighborhood Initiatives

  • Angel House / Homeless Neighborhood Initiative

  • Hybrid Parking Initiative Update

• Events

  • RSVP to Willow St Block Party & Potluck Banquet 20 …

  • Preservation Austin’s 2025 Homes Tour: Tickets & V …

  • Holly Shores Community Engagement Events

• Outdoor Music Venue Permits

  • The Scoot Inn Permit Renewal

  • Chalmers ATX Permit Application

• Land Use Updates

  • 1301-1309 E 4th Street Rezoning Request

Announcements

🚨 Fund the Caps! Call to Action 🚨

The City of Austin originally unveiled a vision to cap I-35, reclaiming up to ~26 acres of land. However, City Staff has since recommended a substantially smaller caps project of only 12.5 acres, cutting the highway covered in our neighborhood by over three acres and eliminating the Holly Street portion. Read our neighborhood’s initial response to this proposal here.

On March 27 May 31, Austin City Council will vote on whether to fund the Roadway Elements. These foundational, structural, and fire-prevention components must be funded now to preserve the opportunity for caps in the future.

This project is vital to connecting East Austin, mitigating environmental harm, and ensuring green space and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure for our community.

Here’s how you can help:
✅ Visit Fundthecaps.com to learn more
✅ Email City Council members—let them know you support this project (email link in the website)
✅ Reply to this email to request a FREE yard sign (see image below) or add a neighborhood group or organization to the FundtheCaps website.
✅ Encourage neighbors to email City Council or attend the meeting on March 27.

Yard Sign Rendering

Neighborhood Initiatives

Angel House / Homeless Neighborhood Initiative

Update: No updates to report. Austin Police Department has scheduled time for an update next week.

Background: Our community collectively sent a detailed letter to Mayor Watson, City Manager Broadnax, and City Council outlining shared concerns and requesting immediate support for the ECC neighborhood. The letter was endorsed by a broad cross-section of our community, including members from 25 small business and non-profit organizations, and included 50 impact statements. Our team is now meeting regularly with APD and David Gray, Homeless Strategy Office, to discuss progress and share feedback.

Hybrid Parking Initiative Update

Update: City Staff will send out a neighborhood survey within the next few weeks.

Background: The ECC Team is working with the City to develop a “hybrid” parking zone to help alleviate parking challenges across the ECC neighborhood. For more details on the initiative, please see the presentation here.

Events

RSVP to Willow St Block Party & Potluck Banquet 2025!

Preservation Austin’s 2025 Homes Tour: Tickets & Volunteer Opportunity

Holly Shores Community Engagement Events

Outdoor Music Venue Permits

The Scoot Inn Permit Renewal

Background: In 2023, the Scoot Inn requested to extend the hours for their outdoor music two hours, Sunday-Thursday until 10:00 PM, and one hour Friday & Saturday until 11:00 pm. The neighborhood voted to permit the extended hours subject to special conditions to mitigate local disturbances. You can read the 2023 agreement here.

The Scoot Inn’s Outdoor Music Venue Permit is now up for renewal and is requesting to renew the terms of the 2023 agreement.

Update: At the December meeting, the ECCNPCT voted to delay the decision on the neighborhood agreement until after the sound equipment is installed per the 2023 agreement. If you have an opinion on the application or Scoot Inn’s presence in our neighborhood, please take a few minutes to share your perspective by completing this short survey. Your input will help inform ECC’s consideration. (This is the same survey sent out in 2023; all are welcome to submit inputs or resubmit their current perspective.)

Whislers Permit Renewal

Please see the agenda for details

Chalmers ATX Permit Application

Please see the agenda for details

Land Use Updates

1301-1309 E 4th Street Rezoning Request

UPDATE: This proposal is for the remaining three lots, 1301, 1303, 1305 E. 4th Street. The applicant has updated the proposal with a more comprehensive site plan with a 45’/60’ split elevation.

Background:

• The applicant seeks to change the zoning from Live/Work Flex to TOD Mixed Use with a maximum height of 60 feet. 15% of the square footage is dedicated to affordable housing. The applicant updated the proposal with a more comprehensive plan for the block and two different height elevation options at 50’ or split at 45’/60’.

• The adjacent neighbors prepared a presentation and initiated a valid zoning petition in opposition. City Staff validated the neighbor’s zoning petition in opposition.

There’s a lot at stake for our neighborhood this year, and your participation makes a difference!

See you at a future meeting! -ep

Eric Pace, Chair
ECCNA/NPCT

Hello Neighbors,

First, thanks to everyone for all the kindness and support shown to our family after the house fire on January 30. We’re beginning repairs and navigating all the related challenges, and the generosity of this community has made a huge difference. A special thanks to Robert and Lyon for offering us a home on very short notice. If you’re in the area, please swing by our temporary home at 1407 Willow Street and say hello!

Now, on to important neighborhood updates—this month, we have a range of topics, from a critical City Council vote on I-35 to Hybrid Parking and planning for a new ECC community event this April. Please read below for more details!

Table of Contents

• Announcements

  • 🚨 Fund the Caps! Call to Action 🚨

  • 🗳️ Community Development Commission Special Elect …

• Neighborhood Initiatives

  • Angel House / Homeless Neighborhood Initiative

  • Hybrid Parking Initiative Update

• Events

  • 6th Annual Community Kickback | Feb 23

• Land Use Updates

  • 1301-1309 E 4th Street Rezoning Request

Announcements

🚨 Fund the Caps! Call to Action 🚨

The City of Austin originally unveiled a vision to cap I-35, reclaiming up to ~26 acres of land. However, City Staff has since recommended a substantially smaller caps project of only 12.5 acres, cutting the highway covered in our neighborhood by over three acres and eliminating the Holly Street portion. Read our neighborhood’s initial response to this proposal here.

On March 27, Austin City Council will vote on whether to fund the Roadway Elements. These foundational, structural, and fire-prevention components must be funded now to preserve the opportunity for caps in the future.

This project is vital to connecting East Austin, mitigating environmental harm, and ensuring green space and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure for our community.

Here’s how you can help:
✅ Visit Fundthecaps.com to learn more
✅ Email City Council members—let them know you support this project (email link in the website)
✅ Reply to this email to request a FREE yard sign (see image below) or add a neighborhood group or organization to the FundtheCaps website.
✅ Encourage neighbors to email City Council or attend the meeting on March 27.

Yard Sign Rendering

🗳️ Community Development Commission Special Election

The Community Development Commission plays an important service role in the City. East Austin has an elected representative, and there’s a special election to determine who will represent our area for the next four years. It’s difficult to find any online information about this election from the City, so I’ve done some research for you! There are two candidates, and you can cast your vote this Monday. Details are below.

🗳️ Election Day: Monday, February 24
🕙 Time: 10 AM – 7 PM
📍 Location: East Austin Neighborhood Center, 211 Comal Street
👉Candidates:

Neighborhood Initiatives

Angel House / Homeless Neighborhood Initiative

Update: Chief Lisa Davis, Austin Police Department, attended January’s monthly meeting for a productive discussion. We’re awaiting substantive updates from HSO and APD on our specific requests, which will be shared here

Background: Our community collectively sent a detailed letter to Mayor Watson, City Manager Broadnax, and City Council outlining shared concerns and requesting immediate support for the ECC neighborhood. The letter was endorsed by a broad cross-section of our community, including members from 25 small business and non-profit organizations, and included 50 impact statements. Our team is now meeting monthly with David Gray, Homeless Strategy Office, to discuss progress and share feedback.

Hybrid Parking Initiative Update

Update: City Staff is joining this month’s meeting to share the latest Hybrid Parking Proposal and elicit feedback for a neighborhood survey.

Background: The ECC Team is working with the City to develop a “hybrid” parking zone to help alleviate parking challenges across the ECC neighborhood. For more details on the initiative, please see the presentation here.

Events

6th Annual Community Kickback | Feb 23

🌟 Date: February 23rd
🌟 Time: 1pm-5pm
🌟 Location: Chicano Park
🛍️ Discover amazing products and services from local vendors. 🤝 Network with entrepreneurs and neighbors. 🎶 Enjoy live entertainment, food, and fun activities for all ages!

Land Use Updates

1301-1309 E 4th Street Rezoning Request

UPDATE: City Council approved rezoning for two lots at the November 21 Council meeting. This proposal is for the remaining three lots, 1301, 1303, 1305 E. 4th Street. The applicant has updated the proposal with a more comprehensive plan for the block and two different height elevation options at 50’ or split at 45’/60’.

Background:

• The applicant seeks to change the zoning from Live/Work Flex to TOD Mixed Use with a maximum height of 60 feet. 15% of the square footage is dedicated to affordable housing. The applicant updated the proposal with a more comprehensive plan for the block and two different height elevation options at 50’ or split at 45’/60’.

• The adjacent neighbors prepared a presentation and initiated a valid zoning petition in opposition. City Staff validated the neighbor’s zoning petition in opposition.

There’s a lot at stake for our neighborhood this year, and your participation makes a difference!

We hope to see you at a future meeting! -ep

Eric Pace, Chair
ECCNA/NPCT

Hello Neighbors,

Happy New Year!! Join us for our first ECC Neighborhood Meeting of 2025 as we establish neighborhood priorities for the year and discuss public safety with Austin Chief of Police Lisa Davis.

Table of Contents

• Announcements

• Neighborhood Initiatives

  • Angel House / Homeless Neighborhood Initiative

    • Update: Chief Lisa Davis, Austin Police Department …

  • Hybrid Parking Initiative Update

• Events

• Land Use & Permit Updates

  • The Scoot Inn Outdoor Music Venue Permit Renewal

Announcements

Neighborhood Initiatives

Angel House / Homeless Neighborhood Initiative

Update: Chief Lisa Davis, Austin Police Department, will attend January’s monthly meeting to discuss the concerns of the ECC neighborhood.

Background: Our community collectively sent a detailed letter to Mayor Watson, City Manager Broadnax, and City Council outlining shared concerns and requesting immediate support for the ECC neighborhood. The letter was endorsed by a broad cross-section of our community, including members from 25 small business and non-profit organizations, and included 50 impact statements. Our team is now meeting monthly with David Gray, Homeless Strategy Officer, to discuss progress and share feedback.

Hybrid Parking Initiative Update

Update: On December 11, ATD unveiled an initial draft of the Hybrid Parking plan for East Cesar Chavez. Next, ATD plans to send out a neighborhood survey. Once community feedback is incorporated to the updated plan, ATD will tentatively present the updated plan at an upcoming ECCNPCT monthly meeting.

Background: The ECC Team is working with the City to develop a “hybrid” parking zone to help alleviate parking challenges across the ECC neighborhood. For more details on the initiative, please see the presentation here.

Events

Transit Forward New Year Celebration

Join Transit Forward to thank Bill McCamley for his service and welcome Ashika Ganguly as new Exec Director.

Gather in community as we hear about successes in the transit space in Austin and the road ahead for a more accessible and connected city in 2025.

www.eventbrite.com/e/transit-forward-new-year-celebration-tickets-1139278626039?aff=oddtdtcreator

Land Use & Permit Updates

The Scoot Inn Outdoor Music Venue Permit Renewal

Background: In 2023, the Scoot Inn requested to extend the hours for their outdoor music two hours, Sunday-Thursday until 10:00 PM, and one hour Friday & Saturday until 11:00 pm. The neighborhood voted to permit the extended hours subject to special conditions to mitigate local disturbances. You can read the 2023 agreement here.

The Scoot Inn’s Outdoor Music Venue Permit is now up for renewal and is requesting to renew the terms of the 2023 agreement.

Update: At the December meeting, the ECCNPCT voted to delay the decision on the neighborhood agreement until after the sound equipment is installed per the 2023 agreement. If you have an opinion on the application or Scoot Inn’s presence in our neighborhood, please take a few minutes to share your perspective by completing this short survey. Your input will help inform ECC’s consideration. (This is the same survey sent out in 2023; all are welcome to submit inputs or resubmit their current perspective.)

Thanks for participating in our community, and I look forward to seeing everyone tomorrow! -ep

Eric Pace, Chair
ECCNA/NPCT

Hello Neighbors,

As 2024 comes to a close, it’s worth reflecting on the many changes in our neighborhood and the ongoing developments shaped by recent local decisions.

Join us for our final ECC Neighborhood Meeting of the year as we come together to review and wrap up 2024 while looking ahead to the opportunities and challenges of 2025. This month’s agenda includes an update on the Hybrid Parking Initiative, a retrospective of the year’s accomplishments, and an important decision regarding the renewal of the Scoot Inn’s Outdoor Music Venue Permit. Meeting Details:

Table of Contents

• Announcements

• Neighborhood Initiatives

  • Angel House / Homeless Neighborhood Initiative

    • Update: Chief Lisa Davis, Austin Police Department …

  • Hybrid Parking Initiative Update

• Events

• Land Use & Permit Updates

  • The Scoot Inn Outdoor Music Venue Permit Renewal

  • 1301-1309 E 4th Street Rezoning Request

Announcements

Neighborhood Initiatives

Angel House / Homeless Neighborhood Initiative

Update: Chief Lisa Davis, Austin Police Department, will attend January’s monthly meeting to discuss the concerns of the ECC neighborhood.

Background: Our community collectively sent a detailed letter to Mayor Watson, City Manager Broadnax, and City Council outlining shared concerns and requesting immediate support for the ECC neighborhood. The letter was endorsed by a broad cross-section of our community, including members from 25 small business and non-profit organizations, and included 50 impact statements. Our team is now meeting monthly with David Gray, Homeless Strategy Officer, to discuss progress and share feedback.

Hybrid Parking Initiative Update

Update: On December 11, ATD unveiled an initial draft of the Hybrid Parking plan for East Cesar Chavez. Once community feedback is incorporated to the updated plan, ATD will tentatively present the updated plan at our February monthly meeting.

Background: The ECC Team is working with the City to develop a “hybrid” parking zone to help alleviate parking challenges across the ECC neighborhood. For more details on the initiative, please see the presentation here.

Events

FREE Family Friendly RADIO/EAST Winter Brunch Market

Check out RADIO/EAST Winter Brunch Market for a cozy morning of delicious food, local vendors, and live music!

Saturday, December 21 · 11am - 3pm
3504 Montopolis Drive Austin, TX 78744

www.eventbrite.com/e/radio-east-winter-brunch-market-tickets-1083525276269

Land Use & Permit Updates

The Scoot Inn Outdoor Music Venue Permit Renewal

Background: In 2023, the Scoot Inn requested to extend the hours for their outdoor music two hours, Sunday-Thursday until 10:00 PM, and one hour Friday & Saturday until 11:00 pm. The neighborhood voted to permit the extended hours subject to special conditions to mitigate local disturbances. You can read the 2023 agreement here.

The Scoot Inn’s Outdoor Music Venue Permit is now up for renewal and is requesting to renew the terms of the 2023 agreement.

Update: The Scoot Inn’s Outdoor Music Venue Permit is now up for renewal and is requesting to renew the terms of the 2023 agreement. If you have an opinion on the application or Scoot Inn’s presence in our neighborhood, please take a few minutes to share your perspective by completing this short survey. Your input will help inform ECC’s consideration. (This is the same survey sent out in 2023; all are welcome to submit inputs or resubmit their current perspective.)

1301-1309 E 4th Street Rezoning Request

Update: City Council approved the rezoning request for the two lots under consideration. However, this case will be revisited as the applicant must still submit applications for the remaining adjacent lots.

Background:

• The applicant seeks to change the zoning from Live/Work Flex to TOD Mixed Use with a maximum height of 60 feet. 15% of the square footage is dedicated to affordable housing. The Planning Commission approved the zoning case on June 11.

• The adjacent neighbors prepared a presentation and initiated a valid zoning petition in opposition.

Thanks for participating in our community, and I look forward to seeing everyone tomorrow! -ep

Eric Pace, Chair
ECCNA/NPCT

Hello Neighbors,

As we approach the holiday season, our eleventh neighborhood meeting for 2024 is scheduled for Wednesday, November 20, at 6 pm at Something Cool Studios, located at 1717 E. Cesar Chavez. The meeting agenda is available here, which includes an update from the Austin Police Department, discussions on I-35 Cap & Stitch funding, a Vision Plan for the East Cesar Chavez corridor, and much more.

You can also join us via Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85746914611.

Table of Contents

• Announcements

  • November Meeting Location: Something Cool Studios …

• Neighborhood Initiatives

  • Angel House / Homeless Neighborhood Initiative

    • Update: The Austin Police Department will attend t …

  • Hybrid Parking Initiative Update

• Events

• Land Use Updates

  • Christ Church Rezoning Request

  • 1301-1309 E 4th Street Rezoning Request

Announcements

November Meeting Location: Something Cool Studios 

1717 E Cesar Chavez St

To connect with more people and places in our neighborhood, ECC will periodically meet at different locations in the neighborhood. November’s meeting will be hosted by Something Cool Studios at 1717 E. Cesar Chavez.

Street parking is typically available on Chalmers, and bikes can be locked on the front porch. Access is available to all community members who wish to attend.

Did you miss out on the Austin Studio Tour? Take a moment to check out art for sale here: https://www.somethingcoolstudios.com/

Do you know a great location to host a neighborhood meeting? Please reply to this email and let us know!

https://maps.app.goo.gl/NAq9eY8cv3RKN7Hc7

Neighborhood Initiatives

Angel House / Homeless Neighborhood Initiative

Update: The Austin Police Department will attend this month’s meeting to share the latest update.

Background: Our community collectively sent a detailed letter to Mayor Watson, City Manager Broadnax, and City Council outlining shared concerns and requesting immediate support for the ECC neighborhood. The letter was endorsed by a broad cross-section of our community, including members from 25 small business and non-profit organizations, and included 50 impact statements. Our team is now meeting monthly with David Gray, Homeless Strategy Officer, to discuss progress and share feedback.

Hybrid Parking Initiative Update

Update: ATD has scheduled a meeting for December to review the draft ECC Parking Plan with tentative plans to begin the hybrid initiative in Q1 2025. We will share more information as it becomes available.

Background: The ECC Team is working with the City to develop a “hybrid” parking zone to help alleviate parking challenges across the ECC neighborhood. For more details on the initiative, please see the presentation here.

Events

TrailHeads Appreciation Party

TTC is hosting an appreciation party on November 21 at The Perch ATX. The Trailheads Appreciation Party is a celebration bringing together TTC members, volunteers, and all who cherish the Butler Trail. Celebrate with an evening of live music, drinks, and giveaways, plus a unique opportunity to share your Trail stories. It’s our way of saying thank you for being part of the Trail’s vibrant community.

thetrailconservancy.org/event/trailheads-appreciation-party

Land Use Updates

Christ Church Rezoning Request

UPDATE: At the October General Meeting, Christ Church indefinitely suspended its rezoning application. You can read the letter submitted to the ECC neighborhood here.

Background: Christ Church previously proposed to rezone both the Church lot and parking lot across the street to create more space for their congregation and the community. The previous application details are available here in the Church’s presentation.

1301-1309 E 4th Street Rezoning Request

UPDATE: The applicant has updated the proposal with a more comprehensive plan for the block and two different height elevation options at 50’ or split at 45’/60’. City Staff has validated the neighbor’s zoning petition in opposition, and the application is scheduled for consideration at the November 21 Council meeting.

Background:

• The applicant seeks to change the zoning from Live/Work Flex to TOD Mixed Use with a maximum height of 60 feet. 15% of the square footage is dedicated to affordable housing. The Planning Commission approved the zoning case on June 11.

• The adjacent neighbors prepared a presentation and initiated a valid zoning petition in opposition.

Thanks for participating in our community, and I look forward to seeing everyone tomorrow! -ep

Eric Pace, Chair
ECCNA/NPCT