AUSTIN (Talk1370.com) -- A controversial plan for the future of Austin's Zilker Park will be "shelved", according to Austin Mayor Kirk Watson.
Watson's announcement, made in his "Watson Wire" email newsletter, follows a joint statement issued by three City Council members earlier Monday saying they would not support the plan.
"We know that the Zilker Park Vision Plan proposes many improvements that have community consensus, such as additional green space, shade trees, erosion control, and bathrooms," the statement from Paige Ellis, Ryan Alter, and Zo Qadri said. "Other elements, however, seem to be flash points of irreconcilable differences. We know the challenges Zilker Park is facing will not go away on their own, but we do not see a path forward for the Zilker Vision Plan and therefore cannot support it."
The plan moved forward in May after its approval by the city's Parks and Recreation Board, after more than two years of community engagement and public input.
The plan, at least on paper, would call for adding three parking garage structures, several new pedestrian and bicycle bridges, and a relocation of the Zilker Hillside Theatre.
In his newsletter, Watson acknowledged the effort that has gone into the plan. "A lot of people and groups worked hard to do something big and positive for our community. And our city staffers have put a lot into this process, as well. I truly appreciate and respect their efforts," Watson said.
"I believe strongly that we can — and must — meet our objectives to preserve and nurture the ecological sanctity of this place while assuring equitable access to all Austinites."
"However, this plan wasn't the right course and it's time for it to be ended. I'm grateful the Interim City Manager has stopped this process," Watson said.
