The City of Austin’s Watershed Protection Department is seeking community input to shape the city’s approach to flooding, erosion, and water quality over the next decade. The department is launching Phase 2 of “Rain to River: A Strategic Plan to Protect Austin’s Creeks and Communities” to better understand community priorities and guide future investments.
Phase 1 of public engagement focused on understanding what values and outcomes are important to the community. Now in Phase 2, the department seeks guidance on how best to achieve those outcomes. Community members are encouraged to complete a brief online survey available from June 18 through September 15.
“We’re asking Austinites to help us think through some important questions,” said Jorge Morales, Director of the Watershed Protection Department. “Should we concentrate our resources on fewer, high-impact projects, or spread them out across more areas? What types of programs or improvements would help people feel safer when it rains? These are decisions we can’t make alone.”
This strategic plan will assist the department in setting goals, prioritizing projects, and making informed decisions about managing limited resources. It will address urgent challenges including climate change, population growth, and longstanding racial inequities. The plan aims to build a more resilient and equitable Austin where natural and built environments work together to protect people and waterways.
For more information about the plan or to participate in the survey titled “Your Voice, Shaping Our Priorities,” visit RainToRiverATX.com.
About Watershed Protection
The City of Austin Watershed Protection Department works to protect lives, property, and the environment by reducing the impact of flooding, erosion, and water pollution. More information is available at AustinTexas.gov/Watershed.
###
