Congress Avenue Urban Design Initiative
Reimagining Congress Avenue for the future.
Congress Avenue epitomizes the spirit of Austin. It’s a connector—connecting kayakers on Lady Bird Lake to policymakers at the Texas State Capitol, professionals in business attire to families grabbing a casual meal, the east to the west, the north to the south.
The future vision for Congress Avenue is currently underway. Funded by Austin’s 2020 Mobility Bond, the first funded phase of the Congress Avenue Urban Design Initiative balances the avenue and reestablishes Congress as a vibrant and active corridor that celebrates the unique character of Austin. The first phase between Cesar Chavez and 7th Street started construction in early 2026.
Support Through The Years
2010
In 2010, we published “Envisioning the Avenue: A Strategic Report”. This envisioned how to make Congress Avenue a truly exceptional place. This report took a block-by-block approach to identify short- and long-term improvements that could be made.
Read the Report⟶2017
The 2010 report laid the ground work for a community-wide effort for creating the Congress Avenue Vision in 2017, which sought to develop Congress Avenue into an extraordinary place that is the heart and soul of Austin and the Main Street of Texas. Through this effort, we implemented free activations and markets, beautification and arts efforts, pocket patios and banner signage.
Explore the Ann Richards Banners⟶2022
In partnership with the City of Austin, we helped champion the Congress Avenue Urban Design Initiative Vision Plan in 2018. Using urban and human-centric design, the plan seeks to identify and realize a grand vision for Congress Avenue. In Spring 2022, the plan was finalized and updated to reflect the bond-allocated funding for the project that voters approved in November 2020.
See the Vision⟶2024 - 2025
In partnership with the City of Austin, we led community engagement meetings, focus groups, and one-on-one briefings with impacted businesses, downtown stakeholders and the greater Austin community. We are committed to ensuring the design process is inclusive and responsive to the needs of everyone who uses and loves this historic avenue.
See the Community's Feedback⟶Navigating Through Construction
The Downtown Austin Alliance is committed to supporting downtown businesses and properties impacted by the construction on Congress Avenue.
For small businesses impacted by construction, see our small business grant for construction relief.
For construction updates via text, text “ATX CONSTRUCTION” to 512-890-3099.
For information on long-term construction impacts, see our transportation impacts page.