On November 2, 2023 The Austin City Council voted to eliminate parking requirements for new developments. For years this was the case in the City's Central Business District but this latest change now extends that same offering to the entire City.
Developer's can now decide on how much parking their specific project demands. This decision does move the City in a direction where it is less dependent on cars. But what are the drawbacks?
Local residents complain of additional parking in the many neighborhoods that surround the entertainment districts and the clogging of their local streets with more traffic. Some are saying by eliminating the parking requirement, developers can spend their money on additional housing units, open space or parks, and other amenities.
Parking calculations will still have to be shown on plans and applicatons so City staff can be sure the proper amount of ADA parking wil be installed. The City of Austin eliminating parking does not apply to ADA spaces. Developers of course will and should provide enough parking for their tenants and customers but what are the correct ratios? There are examples of developments going bankrupt, simply because they didn't offer enough parking to their tenants and customers. It's interesting to see the City of Austin making strides in changing their code. What are your thoughts? Is this a good move for the City and it's residents?
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