Lakeway Council considers view blocking concerns for new home at 209 Corinthian

On July 10, 2025, the Lakeway City Building Commission convened to discuss significant developments regarding height regulations for new residential constructions in the area. The meeting primarily focused on two properties seeking view blocking determinations, a critical issue given Lakeway's picturesque waterfront setting.

The first property under consideration involved a request for a two-story house with a proposed height of 32 feet above the highest natural grade. The owner, who expressed excitement about the project, indicated that there were no anticipated issues with the construction. The commission opened the floor for public comments, but no objections were raised, leading to a swift approval of the height request, with a unanimous vote confirming that the proposed structure would not obstruct views.

The second item on the agenda concerned a request from SW Ranch LLC for a new home at 209 Corinthian, which sought a height of 15 feet above the highest natural grade. Ryan Egan, a permit specialist, presented the case, noting that the design aimed to minimize the height profile. He explained that the only part of the structure exceeding the average height of neighboring homes would be the garage, which was only slightly above the road level.

However, this request sparked a more contentious public hearing. Residents voiced concerns about the potential impact on their views, particularly given the property's proximity to the lake. Fritz Weiss, a neighbor, argued that the proposed height would indeed obstruct views and emphasized the importance of adhering to existing view blocking ordinances designed to protect the scenic vistas that define the community. He pointed out discrepancies regarding the height representation of the construction poles used to gauge the proposed building's impact, suggesting they did not accurately reflect the highest points of the planned structure.

Other residents echoed Weiss's sentiments, urging the commission to enforce the regulations that have historically safeguarded their views. They expressed support for the new neighbors but insisted that compliance with the established rules was essential for maintaining the character of the area.

In conclusion, while the commission approved the first height request without opposition, the second case highlighted ongoing tensions between development and community interests in preserving views. The discussions underscored the delicate balance Lakeway must maintain as it navigates growth while respecting the natural beauty that attracts residents and visitors alike. The commission's next steps will likely involve further scrutiny of the second request, as community members continue to advocate for adherence to local ordinances.