This 10-15 year plan focuses on the redevelopment potentials of the East Aviation district, which is the southern portion of Pat Booker Road going towards JBSA-Randolph.
According to city staff, the goal of the master plan is to provide a vibrant public realm that is anchored with well-defined town center, mixture of uses, life-at-night and open spaces around a major transportation corridor that encourages walkability and a sense of community.
During the March 7 City Council meeting, Development Services Director Michael Cassata gave an update on the plan.
According to Cassata, the Economic Development Corporation has been acquiring property within the Aviation District to help move the plan forward. Properties focused on in the discussion were in between East Langley Boulevard and East Byrd Boulevard.
In three of the plots of land owned by the EDC, the anticipated plans are to make space for a town square area and two different multifamily developments. A parking garage is also planned for the area.
Cassata noted that these plans are not guaranteed, and the market will dictate what private developments will go into the area.
Some residents have voiced concerns regarding the buying of properties in the area.
City Manager Kim Turner said the properties which the EDC has purchased have been due to the owners reaching out, and the city has no desire to force people out of their properties.
“We didn’t reach out to a lot of these people about buying their properties; they reached out to us,” Turner said.
According to Turner, updates on the progress of the plan will be brought to council and the community after significant progress has been made.
