Bastrop City Council updates comprehensive growth plan incorporating community input

The Bastrop City Council meeting held on May 13, 2025, focused on significant updates to the city's comprehensive plan, particularly regarding community growth and land use. The meeting began with a roll call of speakers, indicating strong community interest in the discussions.

City officials highlighted the importance of the Texas Triangle, which encompasses major highways and is crucial for Bastrop's tourism and growth. The council emphasized the need to protect and preserve existing properties while addressing redevelopment on a case-by-case basis. Three substandard residential properties are set for redevelopment, reflecting a careful approach to urban renewal.

Ilda Capricioso from HAP Associates presented an update on the comprehensive plan, which has been in development for nine months. The plan aims to realign the future land use map to better reflect the community's identity and growth aspirations. Community engagement has been a cornerstone of this process, with residents expressing a desire for more parks, open spaces, and balanced residential and commercial development.

Key themes from community feedback included the preservation of rural character, improved distribution of retail services, and better management of traffic congestion. The council acknowledged the need for infrastructure improvements, particularly in wastewater and stormwater management, to support future growth.

The revised growth principles now incorporate a stronger focus on environmental protection and community well-being. The council aims to ensure that new developments align with the existing neighborhood character and provide accessible transportation options.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to thoughtful planning that balances growth with the preservation of Bastrop's unique charm. The next steps involve further refining the comprehensive plan based on community input and preparing for future developments that align with these updated goals.