Summary
The Austin Parks and Recreation Department
(PARD), is working in collaboration with the Downtown Austin Alliance, the
Austin Parks Foundation, and a variety of downtown stakeholders to transform
these often overlooked and underutilized Historic Squares into beautiful green
places buzzing with people and activity. This new initiative will bring together
private and public resources to create physical improvements and programs that
attract, engage, and reflect Austin's diverse community.
Status
A design charrette was held the evening of November 26.
Description
In 1999, the Downtown Austin Alliance in
partnership with the Austin Parks & Recreation Department created a Republic
Square Task force made up of surrounding business owners, residents and members
of the arts community. The task force developed a plan known as the Republic
Square Task Force Final Recommendations. Shortly after that, the Austin Parks
Foundation joined the partnership to provide technical and fundraising
assistance.
In February 2001, a partnership between the
Austin Parks Foundation , the Downtown Austin Alliance and the City of Austin
Parks & Recreation Department was formalized
through a signed memorandum of understanding. The purpose of the partnership is
to revitalize the downtown historic parks, beginning with Republic Square,
creating beautiful public gathering places that attract a variety of citizens
with cultural (dance, music, arts), political, civic, historic, outdoor film,
and family oriented programs.
It is envisioned that Republic Square,
while retaining its historic value, will be the city plaza of downtown Austin.
Its location within a rapidly growing, vibrant, metropolitan setting creates a
rich environment for the creation of a civic square with a unique appeal and
personality. Republic Square will be a place where downtown visitors, employees
and residents can gather to eat, relax and enjoy a variety of activities.
Basic Data
- Project Contact: Butch
Smith , City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department,
974-6763
- Ted Siff, Austin Parks Foundation
- Consultants: Earl Broussard, TBG
Partners , Landscape Architect
Jesus Moroles ,
Artist
Revised October 31,
2001
Back to the October 2001 Downtown Report
Back to the Downtown Redevelopment
