A push to revitalize East Sixth Street downtown is progressing, most recently with the initial approval of plans for the first major residential addition coming to the bar-heavy block.

The big picture

In recent years, Stream Realty Partners took control of dozens of parcels along East Sixth as part of a strategy to improve and redevelop portions of the historic strip.

The firm is eyeing a transition from today's more rowdy nightlife scene to an all-day environment for visitors, with new options such as eateries; shops; and more pedestrian-friendly features, such as farmers markets and concerts. Leasing activity began earlier this year.
Several blocks of East Sixth Street could be modernized through the Old 6th initiative. (Courtesy city of Austin)
Several blocks of East Sixth Street could be modernized through the Old 6th initiative. (Courtesy city of Austin)
The expansive program now called "Old 6th" first came together in response to the many deteriorating or vacant buildings on the block; the prevalence of bars over other types of establishments; and safety concerns stemming from frequent violent incidents, including a shooting in 2021.

"The folks that have been there for a long time are crying out for help. The police officers are wringing their hands and pulling their hair out; they don’t know what to do. But we all agree: You’ve got to change the mixes of uses again back to where it used to be," said attorney Richard Suttle, representing Stream, during a 2022 city commission meeting.


Stream's plans also led to the adoption of new building regulations on East Sixth allowing for taller construction along some of the corridor that could bring in new housing, hotels and office space. And even with those transformative plans, Stream still aims for the district to remain an entertainment and tourism destination.

What's happening

Given that the Old 6th initiative is centered in the Sixth Street Historic District, much of Stream's renovation strategy must first move through Austin's Historic Landmark Commission before that work can proceed.

Nearly two dozen sites have been reviewed by commissioners so far this year for updates such as building rehabilitation, and conversions from bars or commercial space into restaurants and other uses.


Most recently, the commission signed off on the first larger mixed-use project in the district: the redevelopment of 611 E. Sixth St. into hundreds of new apartments. The approval came after several adjustments aimed at making the new building facade fit in with its historic surroundings on the block.

The proposed 184,000-square-foot Grant Building is being developed by Ryan Cos. The existing property owned by a New York-based LLC will be turned into a six-story, 232-unit residential complex.

The development will feature 10,000 square feet of street-level commercial space, 14,000 square feet for amenities and leasing, and a two-level parking garage.

The Grant Building project, part of broader revitalization efforts along East Sixth Street downtown, received a key city approval in July. (Courtesy city of Austin)


Stream Senior Vice President Paul Bodenman said the landmark commission's July 3 approval of the Grant proposal represents another step in East Sixth's rejuvenation.

"We are excited to see the Grant development progress. With the enthusiasm around the opening of The Dead Rabbit pub last week and Grant Plaza moving through the Historic Commission, combined with the forward momentum of our projects, the future of Old 6th is becoming a reality," he said in a statement.
Both Stream and city planners are seeking to make East Sixth Street more active and inviting for pedestrians. (Courtesy city of Austin)
Both Stream and city planners are seeking to make East Sixth Street more active and inviting for pedestrians. (Courtesy city of Austin)