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City outlines narrowed first phase of Congress Avenue design to Cesar Chavez–7th Street
Summary
City staff described a condensed first construction phase for Congress Avenue that widens the pedestrian realm by eliminating angled parking (except ADA), proposes high‑quality materials and an 18‑month block‑by‑block construction sequence starting early 2026.
Austin Transportation and Public Works briefed the Historic Landmark Commission on a first, reduced construction phase for the Congress Avenue Urban Design Initiative.
"We are moving into a first phase of construction," said Romani Ullani, capital improvement program manager, describing work limited to Congress Avenue between Cesar Chavez Street and 7th Street. Ullani said the design increases pedestrian space through removal of angled parking (except ADA spaces), adds dedicated amenity zones and seeks to match existing granite pavers where possible.
Ullani said the project will preserve trees in good condition, add trees where gaps in the canopy occur (subject to utilities verification), and install coordinated street furnishings and bike racks. Lighting improvements will be limited to areas where upgrades are needed. Contractors plan to begin with the 100 block and progress north, with each block taking roughly three months and an 18‑month horizon for the funded first phase; staff said pedestrian access to businesses will be maintained and short vehicle detours expected.
Commissioners thanked staff for the presentation and called the project a tasteful enhancement to the avenue’s historic environment. The item was on the consent agenda and commissioners did not open a full discussion tonight; staff will provide slides and renderings in the project backup for those who want additional detail.
