The setup
City staff held an open house to receive resident feedback on proposed changes to Hutto's downtown streets and parking Feb. 25. In addition to the in-person event, staff opened up a survey to receive input from those who couldn't attend the meeting.
Some of the suggestions to improve safety and traffic control in Old Town include:
- Potential one-way street conversions
- Balancing traffic flow with pedestrian safety
- Resident feedback on parking concerns and solutions
- Paid parking and alternatives, including kiosks
- Potential parking garage and funding options
- Potential to acquire additional land for parking
- Possible business association and employee parking solutions partnership
- Possibility of utilizing a TIRZ
- Economic development opportunities
The survey asked participants preferred approach to Old Town streets, as well as their opinion on converting to one-way streets. Thirty-four respondents favored an approach to keep Old Town streets as-is, while 20 respondents stated a version of one-way streets would be preferable.
Director of Strategic Operations David Amsler said it is important to note that the survey did not mention potential risk factors like change in traffic flow or potential benefits like expanded street parking in order to keep the question neutral.
Of the 23 who chose to answer open-ended questions regarding traffic flow, there was strong sentiment to avoid one-way streets in residential and core areas of Old Town, with common concerns relating to safety.
Residents expressed a desire for better pedestrian infrastructure, public transportation options and using traffic data before making decisions. A majority of respondents said that Old Town does not have enough parking.
Of the 21 respondents who chose to answer open-ended questions about parking, many wanted to see parking structures that are unobtrusive and fit into Old Town's character, and that have the capacity to support parking needs during events. Responses echoed a broad resistance to timed and paid parking.
The action taken
City staff recommended making incremental improvements because of mixed resident feedback. Most immediately, they recommended efforts focusing on walkability, traffic flow and maximizing the use of current structures. Future consideration includes a larger parking garage possibly tied to development or event-related needs.
"There is a lot of mixed opinion," Amsler said. "There isn't a sweeping initiative."
City Council members said they were in favor of a phased approach, looking at converting some streets like East Street open to one-way traffic. Staff will come back in a month to present a road directional plan.
