The Bee Cave Planning and Zoning Commission convened on July 15, 2025, to discuss significant amendments to the Pearl Townhomes project, which aims to enhance the community's housing options while addressing infrastructure needs. The proposed changes to the Planned Development District (PDD) are designed to allow for a phased construction approach, enabling buildings to be completed and occupied sequentially rather than all at once.

The Pearl Townhomes project, initially approved in 2022, has undergone several rounds of technical reviews, with the latest amendments submitted just days before the meeting. The proposed phasing plan will allow for the construction of buildings and associated infrastructure to be completed in stages, starting with the southeast side of the site. This approach is intended to synchronize the development of amenities with the completion of residential units, ensuring that public improvements are delivered alongside new housing.

Key changes in the PDD include a reduction in the income threshold for workforce housing units from 80% to 75% of the area median income, while maintaining the total number of affordable units at 34. Additionally, the amendment extends the timeline for certain public improvement contributions, such as a pedestrian bridge project, by five years to accommodate the phased development.

During the public hearing, no comments were received from residents, indicating a potential lack of opposition or concern regarding the project. The developers expressed gratitude for the city staff's responsiveness and collaboration throughout the amendment process, emphasizing the project's importance to the Bee Cave community.

The commission is expected to vote on the PDD amendment in the coming weeks, with the developers aiming to begin occupancy of the first buildings as early as next month. This phased approach not only promises to expedite the availability of new housing but also aims to enhance the overall infrastructure and aesthetic of the area, contributing to the community's growth and development.