Austin Approves Over $21 Million for Housing, Backs Local Convention Center Hiring and Weighs Transit Changes

Austin has approved over $21 Million for 5 new affordable housing developments, according to an announcement from AustinTexas.gov. Community Impact Newspaper also reported that the city directed $21M to the 5 developments, which include affordable housing. Elsewhere in the city's residential sector, Multifamily & Affordable Housing Business reported that KTGY and Riverside have opened The Waylon in North Austin. In the St. John neighborhood, Austin Free Press reported that an Airbnb-backed project is raising hopes for a neighborhood revival. At the same time, other land agreements have drawn scrutiny, with Austin Current reporting that Austin's Muny deal has raised concerns regarding UT development.

Labor standards and local employment rules also featured in recent city decisions. KXAN Austin reported that the City Council approved a union-backed resolution that prioritizes hiring local workers when the Convention Center reopens. According to the Austin American-Statesman, the convention center plan would give local workers a hiring preference. Alongside the new resolution, compliance with existing labor rules has come under review. The Austin American-Statesman reported that although Austin requires contractors to pay a living wage, that is not always happening. Specifically, KVUE reported that an Austin audit found city contractors underpaid workers despite living wage rules.

In additional council and regulatory actions, Hoodline reported that the Austin Council voted to expand Bright Leaf Preserve land. Meanwhile, Austin Vida reported that Austin launched a Native American and Indigenous Commission to advise the City Council. City officials are also considering new retail restrictions, with The Business Journals reporting that Austin has proposed banning new vape shops within 1,000 feet of schools.

Roadway proposals and transit service changes are also affecting the city. Community Impact Newspaper reported that Austin is pushing back on a proposed Parmer Lane highway conversion, and Austin Current reported that the plans to turn Parmer Lane into a highway have drawn pushback from both City Hall and advocates. For transit riders, Hill Country News reported that CapMetro has cut 2 weekday rail trips through January. At the same time, Electrek reported that overhead wired charging is coming to the Austin electric bus fleet, and Charged EVs reported that a Texas transit agency is electrifying two bus lines with Camber Charging EVSE.