Despite delays caused by comprehensive planning updates, Bee Cave officials are sharing that the city is continuing to examine the need for regional workforce housing projects.

The overview

“The City of Bee Cave supports responsible development that aligns with our comprehensive plan and the unique character of our community,” Bee Cave Communications Director Crystal Cotti said in a city statement shared with Community Impact.

However, according to the city’s current comprehensive plan, Bee Cave has already exceeded the recommended multifamily-to-single-family housing ratio put forward, Cotti said.

“As a result, we believe it is important to get community input and update the city’s comprehensive plan before pursuing additional multifamily developments on city-owned land,” Cotti said. “Bee Cave is committed to continuing to study this issue carefully, both within the context of our community's goals and in coordination with regional planning efforts.”

Some context

On Feb. 27, 2024, Bee Cave approved a request for a proposal to create the city’s first income-restricted multifamily housing project on a 22-acre tract of city land referred to as the Skagg’s Tract, according to previous reporting by Community Impact.

At the time, city officials said that the project would help to alleviate stress on local businesses, first responders, hospital workers and teachers.

Affordability goals outlined in that project request included 50% or more of available units being restricted to households earning 80% or less of median income.

Caption

On July 9, 2024, City Council voted to reject all workforce housing proposals and to create a new request with updated criteria.

A statement from the city said this would give the city time to update its comprehensive plan to provide more detailed design and financing plans, according to previous reporting by Community Impact.

What else?

The city’s Skaggs Tract, previously considered for a workforce housing project location, was chosen as the ideal location for the city’s new library building at a Dec. 10 meeting.