Austin, Texas, December 19, 2025
The redevelopment project for the former Austin American-Statesman site is progressing toward final approval. With unanimous support from the Planning Commission, the plan aims to reshape Austin’s waterfront and skyline, featuring 1,378 residential units, 1.5 million square feet of office space, and various public amenities, including a waterfront park. The project emphasizes affordable housing and aims to enhance the pedestrian environment in the city.
Austin’s Ambitious Redevelopment Plan for Former Statesman Site Nears Approval
Austin, Texas – A transformative redevelopment project for the 19-acre site of the former Austin American-Statesman building is progressing toward final approval. The plan, which has garnered unanimous support from the Planning Commission, aims to reshape the city’s waterfront and skyline.
Project Overview
The proposed development includes:
- Residential Units: 1,378 units across four towers.
- Office Space: Approximately 1.5 million square feet in two towers.
- Hotel Rooms: 275 rooms in one tower.
- Retail and Restaurants: 150,000 square feet of space distributed throughout the development.
- Public Amenities: A 6.53-acre waterfront park, reconstructed hike-and-bike trails, and public plazas.
The development is designed to enhance the pedestrian environment, expand open spaces, and improve connections to the waterfront. Additionally, it includes provisions for affordable housing, with a minimum of 20% of the residential units designated as affordable.
Approval Process
In December 2022, the Austin City Council approved the Planned Unit Development (PUD) zoning for the site, allowing the project to move forward. The Planning Commission’s unanimous recommendation further solidifies the project’s momentum.
Current Status
As of December 2025, the project is awaiting final approval from the Austin City Council. If approved, construction is expected to commence in early 2026, with completion anticipated in phases over the next several years. The development is projected to significantly impact Austin’s economy and urban landscape, providing new housing, office space, and public amenities along the Lady Bird Lake waterfront.
Background
The former Austin American-Statesman building, located at 305 South Congress Avenue, was vacated in January 2022. The site has since been the focus of various redevelopment proposals. The current plan, led by Austin-based Endeavor Real Estate Group in collaboration with the Cox family, emerged as the most comprehensive and received the Planning Commission’s unanimous support.
This redevelopment is part of a broader trend of urban revitalization in Austin, aiming to accommodate the city’s rapid growth while enhancing the quality of life for its residents. The project reflects a commitment to sustainable development and community engagement, ensuring that the new development aligns with Austin’s values and needs.
Related Developments
In recent years, Austin has seen several significant developments, including:
- Sixth and Guadalupe: A 66-story mixed-use skyscraper completed in 2024, now the tallest building in Austin.
- Frost Bank Tower: A 33-story office building completed in 2003, standing at 515 feet tall.
- One Eleven Congress: A 30-story office building completed in 1987, located at 111 Congress Avenue.
These developments, along with the proposed redevelopment of the former Statesman site, underscore Austin’s dynamic growth and its efforts to modernize while preserving the city’s unique character.
Key Features of the Redevelopment Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Residential Units | 1,378 units across four towers |
| Office Space | Approximately 1.5 million square feet in two towers |
| Hotel Rooms | 275 rooms in one tower |
| Retail and Restaurants | 150,000 square feet of space distributed throughout the development |
| Public Amenities | A 6.53-acre waterfront park, reconstructed hike-and-bike trails, and public plazas |
| Affordable Housing | A minimum of 20% of the residential units designated as affordable housing |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the proposed redevelopment plan for the former Austin American-Statesman site?
The plan includes 1,378 residential units, approximately 1.5 million square feet of office space, 275 hotel rooms, 150,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space, and public amenities such as a 6.53-acre waterfront park, reconstructed hike-and-bike trails, and public plazas. Additionally, a minimum of 20% of the residential units are designated as affordable housing.
What is the current status of the redevelopment project?
As of December 2025, the project is awaiting final approval from the Austin City Council. If approved, construction is expected to commence in early 2026, with completion anticipated in phases over the next several years.
Who is leading the redevelopment project?
The project is led by Austin-based Endeavor Real Estate Group in collaboration with the Cox family.
What is the significance of the former Austin American-Statesman building site?
The site, located at 305 South Congress Avenue, is a prime piece of waterfront property along Lady Bird Lake, just south of downtown Austin. Its redevelopment is expected to significantly impact the city’s economy and urban landscape, providing new housing, office space, and public amenities.
What other significant developments have occurred in Austin recently?
Recent developments in Austin include the completion of Sixth and Guadalupe, a 66-story mixed-use skyscraper now the tallest building in the city; the Frost Bank Tower, a 33-story office building completed in 2003; and One Eleven Congress, a 30-story office building completed in 1987.
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