Round Rock community members joined the city's Planning and Services Department at an open house Oct. 29, to share their thoughts on possible changes to downtown mixed-use zoning.

The department provided information on the current zoning designations, as well as opportunity for residents to submit comments and rank their preferences for different types of buildings.

Some context

The current zoning designations allow for limited commercial, office and residential use. Stipulations vary amongst three zones, but building height is limited to up to three stories in the core historic district, east of Mays Street and in residential areas. The zoning west of Mays Street, approaching I-35, allows for building heights of four, six or eight stories.

Some possible building types residents considered at the open house are multi-story residential buildings with ground floor commercial space, retail shops with a sidewalk cafe, outdoor event spaces and townhomes.

What they’re saying

Michelle Jones, who works at the Round Rock Public Library, said she hopes to see upgrades to some of the older buildings in downtown. Anton Murray, who is also a library employee, said he wants to see a more walkable downtown.

“I feel like we’re restricted to just Main Street,” Murray said.

Resident Richard Kotrola said that he hopes the “small town” feel of Round Rock is preserved within possible zoning changes, and that there won’t be many tall buildings in the future.

What’s next?

The planning department will present their findings to City Council at a pre-retreat Dec. 4. The pre-retreat is a full-day work session to discuss current and future plans for the city.