May is recognized as Preservation Month, marking an opportune time for public engagement with the City’s Equity-Based Preservation Plan. The draft of this plan is currently open for public feedback until Friday, May 31.
The city has planned two complimentary special events in East and South Austin to facilitate public understanding of the plan. Cara Bertron, Program Manager with the City’s Planning Department, said, “We’re excited to connect with community members about the draft plan in two unique historic places. With two weeks left to give feedback, we hope more people will join the many Austinites who have contributed to this important community-based effort.”
The draft Equity-Based Preservation Plan was developed by a diverse community working group appointed by the Historic Landmark Commission. This group spent over a year gathering input from various community members and stakeholders. More than 300 individuals participated in shaping the draft plan which, when adopted by City Council, will replace Austin’s existing historic preservation plan from 1981.
The draft plan aims to engage communities in protecting and sharing significant places and stories. It suggests using historical knowledge to foster a shared sense of belonging and to shape an equitable, inclusive, sustainable, and economically viable future for all residents. The plan outlines fourteen goals and over 100 draft recommendations that support this vision. The City is actively seeking community feedback on these aspects until May 31.
Since its release for community review in February, outreach efforts have included events at Huston-Tillotson University and the Baker School in Hyde Park, participation in approximately 25 community events, extensive discussions with professional organizations, nearly 30 presentations to community groups and City commissions, and a social media campaign. Ten community ambassadors and five local organizations are receiving funding to help engage historically marginalized communities around the draft plan.
Public comments for the plan will be accepted until May 31. For more information on the plan and upcoming events, visit PublicInput.com/ATXpresplan.