Bastrop officials are proposing new rules aimed at increasing foot traffic and activity in the Downtown Historic District, including a requirement that at least 60% of street-facing ground-floor storefront space be used for customer-facing businesses.
The Bastrop Planning and Zoning Commission will consider the proposal during an Oct. 29 public hearing.
What’s happening
According to a notice issued to downtown business owners, the proposed amendments would divide ground-floor storefront uses into two categories:
Active uses would include customer-facing businesses such as retail, restaurants, personal services, galleries and entertainment.
Passive uses would include offices, appointment-based services, residential uses, private clubs and administrative areas.
Under the proposal, at least 60% of street-facing ground-floor storefront space would be required to contain an active use, while up to 40% could contain a passive use.
Why it's happening
According to records shared with Community Impact ahead of the meeting, the changes are intended to help preserve downtown’s traditional storefront character, encourage foot traffic and limit stretches of storefronts occupied by uses that generate little walk-in activity.
Planning Manager Brittany Dullard said the proposal would allow flexibility through a Conditional Use Permit process and an administrative exception for qualifying vacancies or market hardships.
Some context
City officials said downtown property owners received notices about the proposed amendments, prompting Discover Bastrop Director Michaela Joyce to address the proposal in an Oct. 15 video streamed on the city's Facebook page.
Joyce said the notice caused concern among some recipients, but added that existing downtown businesses and those already in the planning or permitting process would be grandfathered.
Joyce said several hundred people responded to a city survey this summer, with an overwhelming number calling for more retail and restaurants downtown.
What else?
The proposal could also impose restrictions on some alcohol-related businesses and specialty cigar shops.
Dullard said this would allow officials to assess potential impacts such as hours of operation, noise, outdoor activity, parking, security and compatibility with surrounding uses.
Businesses that make at least 75% of their revenue from alcohol would need special city approval if they want to open within 300 feet of a similar business.
Looking ahead
Residents can weigh in during the P&Z public hearing at 6 p.m. on Oct. 29 at Bastrop City Hall, 1311 Chestnut St.
If the commission recommends the changes, City Council will consider them Nov. 3 and Nov. 17.
