In a recent government meeting, officials discussed significant initiatives aimed at addressing the housing crisis in Austin through the creation of new zoning regulations. The focus is on unlocking \"missing middle\" housing, which refers to a range of housing types that fall between single-family homes and larger apartment complexes. The current zoning framework has been identified as a barrier to this type of development.

To facilitate these changes, a grant has been proposed to fund consultant services that will draft new ordinances. This initiative aims to close a 5% financing gap for the Ryan Drive redevelopment project and support land acquisition along the South Congress corridor. The Ryan Drive project is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2027, while the South Congress transit corridor project is slated for completion by the first quarter of 2029.

Public engagement is a key component of this process. A public comment period was launched on September 19 and will run until October 10, with plans for a briefing and public hearing scheduled for October 8 and 10, respectively. The application for the grant is due on October 15.

Stevie Greathouse from the planning department elaborated on the two-part approach to developing new zoning tools. This includes studying the potential for new missing middle and mixed-use zones and creating specific code language to implement these changes. The goal is to present a study to the council next year, leading to code amendments by 2026.

Council members expressed their concerns about the existing zoning divide, which has historically favored large master-planned neighborhoods and single-family zoning over diverse housing options. They emphasized the need for updated strategic housing blueprints to identify opportunity zones and ensure that land use aligns with federal funding opportunities for transit projects.

The discussions highlighted a commitment to fostering transit-oriented development and creating walkable communities that offer a variety of housing options, addressing both current needs and future growth in Austin.