According to the city of Austin Planning and Zoning Department, a planned unit development, or PUD, allows for more design flexibility within large, complex projects and is intended to result in a development that is superior than what would be accomplished through traditional zoning. PUD zoning is appropriate if the development enhances the natural environment, encourages high-quality and innovative design, and provides public facilities and services for development within the PUD, the department said.

PUDs are usually reserved for projects 10 acres or larger in which conventional zoning regulations may not be conducive to adequate development.

The Covered Bridge PUD located north of the Y in Oak Hill off Hwy. 71 encompasses about 40 acres and was granted the designation in 2013. Over a two-year period, developer Bill Schultz worked with the city of Austin to allow for multiple uses on the property, including retail and multifamily residential. An expansion of the development is underway and will be complete by early 2018.