Property owners, businesses and nightlife operators urge council to favor option 3 for 6th Street redesign

Several speakers during the public‑communications period told the Mobility Committee they want option 3 included in the forthcoming 6th Street mobility and revitalization plan and opposed protected bike lanes that would reduce sidewalk width downtown.

Blake Thompson, a District 10 resident and board member of the Pecan Street Owners Association, said his membership of 113 property owners and more than 60 businesses "unanimously voted in favor of option number 3," adding that 6th Street must accommodate heavy evening pedestrian activity and loading needs. Paul Bodum of Stream Realty Partners, who said he represents more than 30 properties, said the bike‑lane option would leave only about 9½ feet of sidewalk—below the 11 feet he said are commonly successful for outdoor dining—and urged committee members to walk the corridor before selecting a design.

Kevin Rain, representing the Texas Bar and Nightclub Alliance and dozens of businesses, told the committee that historic 6th Street is a pedestrian‑dense entertainment district and added, "Major entertainment districts are pedestrian friendly and do not have bike riders riding through them," arguing the city should listen to stakeholders and not include bike lanes. Sean Sirkiel and other business representatives reiterated the same concerns and emphasized visitor volumes and the unique mix of venues along the street.

Speakers also offered to host tours and meetings for council members to experience 6th Street at night. Committee members acknowledged the public comments and noted that the 6th Street pilot and mobility plan will appear on future agendas for additional briefing and decision making.

The committee did not take a policy vote on 6th Street during the meeting; council members flagged the item as ongoing and indicated they will continue to receive briefings.