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Multi-Modal Study

The Grove at Shoal Creek|

11.2015

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1|INTRODUCTION 1

Background and Project Approach 1

Project Purpose 2

Key Issues 3

Stakeholder Involvement 3

Other Studies 5

2 | EXISTING CONDITIONS 8

General Observations 8

Pedestrian Environment 8

Bicycling 9

Transit 9

3|MULTI-MODAL PLAN 13

About The Plan 13

Pedestrian Environment 14

Bicycling 16

Traffic Calming 19

Transit 20

4 | RECOMMENDATIONS 27

About The Recommendations 27

Recommended Overall Multi-Modal Plan 27

Recommended Short Term Improvements (2015 to 2020) 27

Recommended Intermediate Term Improvements (2020 to 2030) 31

Recommended Long Term Improvements (2025 to 2035) 33

5 | CONCLUSIONS 37

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1|INTRODUCTION BACKGROUND AND PROJECT APPROACH

The Grove at Shoal Creek is a proposed master-planned community with a vision

to create a legacy-quality neighborhood and model for innovative mixed-use

urban infill development. As illustrated in Figure 1, the project site is uniquely

situated within central Austin along Shoal Creek and Bull Creek Road. The

proposed Mixed-Use Development (MXD) is a people- and community-oriented

development with the goal to promote multi-modal mobility throughout the

neighborhood and integrate sustainable design strategies with the history and

natural character of the land. With high population growth rates and an

expanding economy, the City of Austin is frequently listed as one of the nation’s

top fastest growing cities. Like many cities around the nation experiencing

growth, the City of Austin faces tremendous housing and transportation

challenges. Infill development strategies have become a common approach to

address issues such as housing shortages, transportation, congestion and

environmental costs associated with an increase in population.

The MXD is a relatively new development classification and is very different from

the previous development types which were traditionally considered as

standalone, urban developments. These locations traditionally provided limited

or no transit service and had limited or no bicycle or pedestrian amenities.

Because of these development patterns, there was little accountability for on-

and off-site interaction.

Infill development, such as The Grove, is the process of developing vacant or

under-used parcels within existing urban areas that are largely developed for

creating residential densities high enough to support improved transportation

choices. However, it also raises important issues about fairness and the well-being

of established central city neighborhoods. For infill development such as The

Grove to be successful, developers must account for the needs of established

residents to ensure that the new development fits the existing context and gains

neighborhood acceptance. The Grove will have unique characteristics that will

focus on both on- and off-site access and interaction, with attention given to

pedestrian, bicycle and transit amenities.

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Pedestrian safety and multi-modal mobility has been at the forefront of residents

of the surrounding neighborhoods including Allendale, Brykerwoods, Highland

Park West/Balcones Area, Oakmont Heights, Ridgelea, Rosedale, and

Westminster. This study aims to enhance non-automobile access within the

neighborhoods to allow The Grove and surrounding area residents the ability to

access all parts of the site via walking, biking, and transit. The study’s two-pronged

approach will focus on: 1) a series of system-level improvements to promote the

use of alternative modes and reduce modal conflicts, and 2) street level-

improvements specifically targeted at improving pedestrian safety at

intersections and street crossings. These approaches are based on the

recognition that making neighborhoods safer and friendlier for pedestrians and

bicyclists requires a broad vision of the entire neighborhood transportation system,

and fundamental changes to the way its infrastructure is designed.

PROJECT PURPOSE

Working with neighborhood representatives, the project team defined a two-fold

purpose for this study:

As the project purpose was developed, a number of key issues were identified

specific to this study. These key issues are summarized as follows:

KEY ISSUES

Creating a safe and connected neighborhood for pedestrians and bicyclists.

Enhancing cross-street access for pedestrians and bicyclists.

Becoming less reliant on the automobile by encouraging the use of alternative modes.

Provide traffic-calming measures to prevent cut-through traffic on neighborhood streets.

To provide specific solutions to make The Grove development accessible from surrounding neighborhoods via walking, biking and transit.

To provide solutions to minimize the impact of the development on surrounding neighborhoods.

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STAKEHOLDER INVOLVEMENT

To determine what amenities are needed to encourage non-automobile use, The

Grove undertook a significant public outreach program within an expanded

study area – Hancock Dr (north), Burnet Rd/Medical Pkwy (east), 38th St/35th St

south) and MoPac Expwy (west). An illustration of the study boundary is located

in Figure 2. Residents were asked what improvements they would like to see within

this area. This could include everything from speed cushions and traffic circles to

sidewalks and bike lanes. The primary goal being what the residents need in order

to make their neighborhoods safer for walkers and bicycle users as well as what

amenities the residents would need to make The Grove and attractive place for

them to visit.

A summary of the public comments gathered during this time extensive study are

as follows:

Provide safer pedestrian access to/from the site primarily from north of 45th St and West of Bull

Creek Rd.

Provide pedestrian access to the Shoal Creek Trail.

Traffic calming devices to discourage both speed and cut through traffic. Roadways of

concern include: Jackson Ave, Bull Creek Rd, Oakmont Blvd, Finley Dr, and Great oaks Pkwy.

Provide an enhanced pedestrian crosswalk at the intersection of 45th St and Shoal Creek Blvd.

Install intersection controls at Oakmont Blvd and 36th St, 37th St, 38th St, and 39th St.

Install a traffic signal at the intersection of 40th St and Bull Creek Rd.

Install pedestrian medians/refuge islands at intersections along Bull Creek Rd to provide safer

pedestrian crossing and to prohibit vehicles turning left from Bull Creek Rd or left from the side

streets.

Implement a residential parking program.

Signalized pedestrian crossing at the intersection of 45th St and Sinclair Ave or 45th St and

Ramsey Ave.

Pedestrian bridge crossing 45th St between Shoal Creek Blvd and Bull Creek Rd.

Pedestrian bridge across Shoal Creek connecting The Grove to Shoal Creek Blvd.

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OTHER STUDIES

A number of other completed transportation studies in the Austin area informed

this Multi-Modal Transportation Study. These studies include, the Imagine Austin

Comprehensive Plan (2012), Austin Bicycle Plan (2014), City of Austin Urban Trails

Master Plan (2014), and the Sidewalk Master Plan (2009).

Neighborhood sidewalks along one or both sides of the following roadways:

o Bull Creek Rd from 38th St to Hancock Dr

o 36th St

o 37th St

o 38th St

o 39th St

o 40th St

o 41st St

o 42nd St

o Oakmont Blvd

o Lawton St

Install dedicated bike lanes along both the north and south sides of 45th St

especially west of Shoal Creek Blvd providing connectivity west of MoPac.

Install dedicated cycle track along Jackson Ave between Bull Creek Rd and

35th St, ultimately providing connectivity to the proposed Lone Star Rail stop.

Lower the speed limit to 25 MPH along Bull Creek Rd.

Improve neighborhood bike access to the planned City of Austin Cycle Track

along the Hancock Dr bridge (Safe Routes to School).

Incorporate B-Cycle stations.

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2 | EXISTING CONDITIONS GENERAL OBSERVATIONS

The population of Austin has increased tremendously over the last 5 to 10 years.

Traffic congestion has been on the rise as a result. Some neighborhoods now

experience more cut-through traffic than before. Speed pillows have been

previously installed on some neighborhood streets to the north and southeast of

the proposed Grove site. Additionally, the sidewalk network within the study area

is mostly incomplete with the majority of existing sidewalks located along busy

arterials and collectors. Several existing bicycle lanes traverse the study area as

well as other bicycle and transit routes. A multi-use trail, Shoal Creek Trail, begins

southeast of the study area and continues south to Lady Bird Lake. Despite an

incomplete network of multi-modal transportation infrastructure, residents of the

study area frequently walk and ride their bikes within their neighborhoods.

Residents are concerned the new development will generate additional traffic

and create further barriers to walking and bicycling. Although the proposed

development plans to provide multi-modal transportation access throughout its

site, one of the major challenges will be coordinating improvements to streets and

sidewalks in the project’s vicinity that are either city or privately controlled.

PEDESTRIAN ENVIRONMENT

Currently, out of a potential of 45.6 miles, the study area has 31.2 linear miles

(68.4%) of absent sidewalks, or sidewalk gaps. Pedestrian safety has been a

primary concern for area residents. Currently, only four marked pedestrian

crosswalks exist on the 1 mile extent of Bull Creek Rd from 45th St to Jefferson St.

The crosswalks are located at the intersections with 45th St, Jackson Ave, 40th St,

and Jefferson St. The intersections on 45th St and Jefferson St include pedestrian

signalization, whereas the other two include pedestrian signage. In addition, near

the southeastern boundary of the study area exists the northern end of the Shoal

Creek Trail, a shared-use facility used for walking, jogging, hiking, and bicycling.

The trail, approximately 4 miles long, runs mostly along Shoal Creek from 38th St

and continues south to downtown and Lady Bird Lake. An illustration of the study

area’s existing pedestrian environment is shown in Figure 3.

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BICYCLING

The study area has an active bicycle community and includes a combination of

bicycle routes and bicycle lanes. Although both are intended for bicycle use,

there are important differences between them. A bicycle route is a roadway that

is officially marked and designated for bicycle use, but which is open to motor

vehicle travel and upon which no bicycle lane is designated. A bicycle lane is a

portion of a roadway that has been designated for exclusive use by bicyclists

through the use of pavement markings and signs. There is an existing bicycle lane

on Bull Creek Rd, directly adjacent to the proposed development. In total, there

are 3.8 miles of bicycle lanes, 4.8 miles of bicycle routes, and 123 meters of trails

within the study area. Figure 4 illustrates the locations of all bicycle facilities within

and adjacent to the study area.

TRANSIT

The study area is served by seven Capital Metro transit service routes, including

Local, Limited and Flyer, Crosstown, Special Services, UT Shuttle, MetroRapid, and

Express Routes. Additionally, there are 45 existing bus stops. Four signed bus stops

and one covered bus facility are located directly adjacent to the proposed

development on Bull Creek Rd. The site of the proposed development is served

by two bus routes including the 19 Bull Creek and 491 Allandale. The 19 Bull Creek

is a daily Local Service Route with multiple-stop service to-and-from downtown.

The Special Services Route 491 Allandale, which runs three days a week, is a

neighborhood circulator aimed for older citizens and passengers with mobility

difficulties. It stops at several of the area’s major medical complexes, shopping

malls and grocery stores. Figure 5 shows the existing transit facilities and routes

within the study area and the vicinity.

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3|MULTI-MODAL PLAN ABOUT THE PLAN

The multi-modal plan addresses safety and mobility needs for pedestrians and

bicyclists. Its goal is not only to provide enhanced non-vehicular access to the site,

but also to identify, classify and prioritize neighborhood needs. This will enable the

residents to work with the City in the determination of implementation and/or

construction.

The multi-modal plan is built on the following parameters:

PEDESTRIAN ENVIRONMENT

It is widely understood that the City of Austin has significant gaps in the area-wide

sidewalk network. As presented in the existing conditions analysis, the study area

has a high percentage of absent sidewalks or sidewalk gaps in its network. These

gaps not only prevent residents from walking to nearby establishments, they also

present safety concerns. Where there are not adequate sidewalks people are

forced to walk in the streets or along undesignated paths. These present

significant access and safety problems for residents and in particular residents

with any type of mobility impairment. As shown in the comment summary in

Section 1 – Stakeholder Involvement, several residents expressed the desire for

new and improved sidewalk connectivity. Many residents indicated that given

Provide pedestrian connectivity

Provide enhanced pedestrian safety

Build upon existing bicycle network to provide bicycle connectivity

Improvements should encourage alternative modes of transportation

Incorporate Complete Streets concepts

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the absence of neighborhood sidewalks, they are required to walk in the unsafe

roadway.

Sidewalks provide many benefits in the areas of safety, health, and economics. A

sidewalk can be in the form of a traditional concrete walkway or, as proposed by

The Grove, a wide mixed use path that will allow the mobility impaired, walkers,

bikers and joggers site access. A multi-use trail/path, or shared-use path, is a

walkway that is physically separated from motor vehicle traffic by a physical

barrier and may be used by pedestrians and bicyclists alike. By providing a

separate facility for pedestrians to travel on, the risk of crashes is dramatically

reduced. In addition, the wider the separation between the pedestrian and the

roadway, the more safe and comfortable it is for pedestrians. Studies have shown

that people with access to comfortable sidewalks are more likely to walk. There

are also added health and economic benefits to sidewalks. Studies have shown

that walking contributes to both physical and mental well-being. Additionally,

trends indicate that walkable neighborhoods are highly desirable and contribute

to improved aesthetics and increased property values.

In order to address both the walkability of the neighborhoods and access to and

from the site, the following recommendations were highlighted by the residents.

Each are discussed below and are depicted in Figure 6:

Allow for residents from the Rosedale neighborhood easier and safer access to the site by

building a pedestrian and bicycle bridge over Shoal Creek connecting Shoal Creek Blvd and

the The Grove property. This would require approval or an easement from the State of Texas

as The Grove does not own or control any property between Shoal Creek and Shoal Creek

Blvd.

Sidewalks along both sides of Bull Creek Rd between 45th and Hancock Dr. Bull Creek Rd is

bounded by residential neighborhoods and currently pedestrians must walk along the street

edge to go anywhere. The installation of the sidewalks would allow safe residential access

between neighborhoods as well as provide a safe walkway down to The Grove.

Sidewalks along entire length of Oakmont Blvd (north of 45th St) and Chiappero Trl. The

residents of these neighborhoods interact with each other quick frequently. Currently there is

no sidewalk availability and residents are walking in the streets. Providing sidewalks, allows for

safer pedestrian neighborhood access.

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ON-SITE PEDESTRIAN FACILITIES

The Grove at Shoal Creek development will include multiple wide pedestrian

pathways. The paths will provide connections from the surrounding

neighborhoods to the site’s interior parks and retail. In addition, there will be a

new pedestrian hybrid beacon at the proposed 45th St access location to provide

safe crossings for residents coming from neighborhoods to the north.

NEIGHBORHOOD PEDESTRIAN NEEDS

To further improve pedestrian accessibility to the proposed development from the

surrounding neighborhoods, other neighborhood-wide improvements are

needed. The comments received from the stakeholder involvement served as a

basis for the development of the neighborhood-wide pedestrian needs. A list of

priority recommendations for the City of Austin are as follows:

Enhanced pedestrian crossing at the intersection of 45th St and Bull Creek Rd to provide for

safer crossing

Pedestrian hybrid beacon at the intersection of 45th St and Ramsey to provide for safer

crossing and access to Ramsey Park

Installation of a sidewalk along the southern side of 45th St between Bull Creek Rd and Shoal

Creek

• Installation of a direct access route to the Shoal Creek Trail from the southeast corner

Installation of a pedestrian hybrid beacon at the intersection of 45th St and 2627 45th St. The

pedestrian activated traffic signal will allow for safe pedestrian crossings for neighborhoods

north of the site.

Sidewalks along one side of 36th St through 42nd St, south side of 45th St, Oakmont Blvd and

Lawton St. The residents of these neighborhoods interact with each other quite frequently.

Currently there is no sidewalk availability and residents are walking in the streets. Providing

sidewalks, allows for safer pedestrian neighborhood access.

Installation of a pedestrian hybrid beacon at the intersection of 45th St and Sinclair Ave or

45th St and Ramsey Ave. The residents of the Rosedale and Allendale neighborhoods are

continually crossing 45th St on foot to access Ramsey Park or other neighborhood activities.

Because of the speeds along 45th St, the installation of a pedestrian activated traffic signal at

either of these locations would make these crossings much safer.

Pedestrian bridge crossing 45th St between Shoal Creek and Bull Creek Rd.

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BICYCLING

As shown in Section 1 – Bicycling, the study area is part of the citywide bicycle

network and includes 8.6 miles of bicycle facilities which features bicycle routes

and bicycle lanes. Through stakeholder involvement sessions, several residents

have expressed the desire for enhanced bicycle access to and from the

proposed development. This not only includes the existing bicycle lane on Bull

Creek Rd adjacent to the proposed development, but also other bicycle facilities

beyond the site. The following recommendations were highlighted by the

residents:

Pedestrian and bicycle bridge over Shoal Creek connecting Shoal Creek Blvd and The Grove

property. The Grove will be setting aside an easement for this construction should the City or

others decide to build.

Cycle-Track or dedicated bicycle lane along the east side of Bull Creek Rd north of 45th St

connecting 45th St to Hancock Dr. The section of Bull Creek Rd is a City bicycle route but there

are no on-street bicycle lanes. By installing all-ages and all-ability bike lanes, the residents

and bike riders alike, can utilize the lanes in a safe environment.

Cycle-Track or dedicated bicycle lane along the east side of Bull Creek Rd between 45th St

to 38th St. This part of Bull Creek Rd is also a designated bike route, but there are on-street bike

lanes. The City has indicated their desire for an all-ages all-abilities cycle-track.

Install dedicated bike lanes along both the north and south sides of 45 th Street Especailly

west of Shoal Creek Blvd providing connectivity west of MoPac.

Install dedicated cycle track along Jackson Ave between Bull Creek and 35th Street.

Ultimately provding connectivity to the proposed Lone Star Rail stop.

Lower the speed limit to 25 MPH along Bull Creek.

Improve neighborhood bike access to the planned City of Austin Cycle Track along the

Hancock Dr bridge (Safe Routes to School).

Incorporate B-Cycle stations.

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ON-SITE BICYCLE FACILITIES

The Grove on Shoal Creek will provide ample bicycle facilities on-site to

accommodate individuals wanting to bike. In addition to providing

neighborhood connectivity to the site, there will be ample on-site bicycle parking

that will encourage neighbors to bike, as well as enhance the bicycle experience.

In general bike parking will be located conveniently to building entrances and in

high visibility locations near retail, restaurant and office land uses.

NEIGHBORHOOD BICYCLE NEEDS

The City of Austin has a vast network of bicycling facilities which totaled 210 miles

by the end of 2014. Through the adoptions of both the Urban Trails Master Plan

and the Bicycle Master Plan in 2014, the City of Austin has committed to funding

and building an even more extensive and improved network of bicycle facilities.

The proposed network will be composed of protected bike lanes, urban trails, and

quiet residential streets all integrated seamlessly to provide safe and easy

connections throughout the city. Recommendations specific to the study area’s

network include an all-ages all-abilities buffered bike lane on Bull Creek Rd along

with other facility upgrades. Implementation of these recommendations will not

only provide access to the site, but also allow neighborhood bikes the ability to

get to and from the Shoal Creek Trail, work, or other needs. Figure 7 shows the

study area’s proposed bicycle network from the 2014 City of Austin Bicycle Master

Plan and Table 1 provides a list of the plan recommendations specific to the study

area.

Considering the recommendations requested by residents during the study’s

stakeholder involvement sessions, this plan recommends the installation of a

cycle-track on Bull Creek Rd from Hancock to 38th St as a priority for the City of

Austin.

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Table 1: City of Austin, 2014 Bicycle Master Plan Facility Recommendations

TRAFFIC CALMING

The study area includes major thoroughfares in the City of Austin including MoPac

Expressway, 35thSt/38th St, 45th St, Burnet Rd, and Hancock Dr. The neighborhoods

in the study area experience residential cut-through traffic, or traffic which uses

local or collector streets to travel through a residential neighborhood without

having an origin or destination within the neighborhood. Residential cut-through

traffic not only reduces the safety within the neighborhood, but also its livability.

To address these issues, traffic calming measures are put in place. Traffic calming,

as defined by the Institute of Transportation Engineers, is the combination of

mainly physical measures that reduce the negative effects of motor vehicle use,

alter driver behavior and improve conditions for non-motorized street users.

Measures include physical structures such as pedestrian refuge islands, traffic

circles, and speed humps. Currently, the study area contains 15 speed pillows, or

speed humps, and one traffic circle. Figure 8 illustrates the locations of the existing

traffic calming measures within the study area. The following traffic calming

recommendations were highlighted by the residents during the stakeholder

involvement sessions:

Street Name From To Existing Facility Recommended

Facility

All Ages and Abilities

Network

35TH ST BALCONES DR W 38TH ST Shared Lane Protected BL

38TH ST JEFFERSON ST W 35TH ST Shared Lane Shared Lane

38TH ST W 35TH ST GUADALUPE ST Shared Lane Protected BL

40TH ST SHOAL CREEK BLVD MEDICAL PKWY Shared Lane Bike Lane

45TH ST HIGHLAND TER AIRPORT BLVD Shared Lane Protected BL

49TH ST SHOAL CREEK BLVD WOODROW AVE Wide Curb Lane Bike Lane

BULL CREEK RD HANCOCK DR W 45TH ST Wide Curb Lane Buffered BL Yes

BULL CREEK RD W 45TH ST W 38TH ST Bike LanePK Buffered BL Yes

HANCOCK DR VALLEY OAK DR WEST FRANCES PL Wide Shoulder Protected BL Yes

HANCOCK DR WEST FRANCES PL BURNET RD Bike Lane Protected BL Yes*

JEFFERSON ST W 38TH ST W 35TH ST Bike LanePK Buffered BL Yes

MEDICAL PKWY BURNET RD W 34TH ST Bike Lane Buffered BL

MOPAC N MOPAC EXPY SVRD SBN MOPAC EXPY SVRD SB Shared Lane Urban Trail

MOPAC S MOPAC EXPY SVRD NBS MOPAC EXPY SVRD NB Shared Lane Urban Trail

*A portion of this segment is in the all ages and abilities network.

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ON-SITE TRAFFIC CALMING NEEDS

The Grove will be installing pedestrian refuge islands along Bull Creek Rd from 45th

St to 35th St to prevent cut-through traffic through the Oakmont neighborhood.

NEIGHBORHOOD TRAFFIC CALMING NEEDS

To address other neighborhood-wide traffic calming needs, speed humps/pillows

should be installed on Great Oaks Pkwy (to discourage drivers using this as an

alternate route between 45th St and Shoal Creek Blvd, and Oakmont Blvd and

Lawton Ave south of Bull Creek Rd.

Figure 10 illustrates the proposed traffic measures for the study area.

TRANSIT

A transit system is an important aspect of multi-modal transportation. As described

in Section 1 – Transit, the study area currently has good transit service, but lacks

comfortable bus stop facilities such as covered seating. To maintain an effective

and efficient transit system, the riding experience must include safety and comfort.

The following transit comments were provided by the residents:

Traffic calming devices to discourage both speed and cut through traffic. Roadways of

concern include: Jackson Ave, Bull Creek Rd, Oakmont Blvd, Finley Dr, and Great oaks Pkwy.

Install intersection controls such as those shown on Figure 9 at Oakmont Blvd and 36th St, 37th

St, 38th St, and 39th St.

Install pedestrian medians/refuge islands at intersections along Bull Creek Rd to provide safer

pedestrian crossing and to prohibit vehicles turning left from Bull Creek Rd or left from the side

streets.

Increase the route frequencies.

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ON-SITE TRANSIT FACILITIES

To improve the transit riding experience, the developer will be providing on-site

enhanced transit stops with covered seating to build refuges for riders and a

place to sit.

NEIGHBORHOOD TRANSIT NEEDS

No comments were received during the stakeholder involvement sessions

regarding neighborhood-wide transit needs, therefore this study does not include

any recommendations on this particular item.

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4 | RECOMMENDATIONS ABOUT THE RECOMMENDATIONS

The recommended multi-modal improvements were developed based upon

comments received from neighborhood residents, projected future development,

environmental considerations/constraints and transportation network continuity.

This section identifies the recommended multi-modal plans and assigns a priority

ranking to each.

RECOMMENDED OVERALL MULTI-MODAL PLAN

The recommended Overall Multi-Modal Plan for The Grove and the surrounding

neighborhoods includes the implementation of both on- and off-site

improvements, as they relate to The Grove, as well as the identification of off-site

residential needs. The Multi-Modal plan includes a short term implementation plan

(2015 to 2020), intermediate term implementation plan (2020 to 2025), and a long

range plan (2025 to 2035). Included are projects both related to the

development of The Grove as well as those projects that will have to be

implemented by the City of Austin. It should be noted that other than those

projects directly related to The Grove, the implementation priority is directly

related to the expressed residential concerns. The developer of The Grove will

assist the neighborhoods in expediting the identified needs; however, the ultimate

approval and construction of these improvements is the responsibility of the City

of Austin. These projects requiring City of Austin participation have been identified

as being “owned” by the City of Austin.

RECOMMENDED SHORT TERM IMPROVEMENTS (2015 TO 2020)

The short term improvement program includes all multi modal needs directly

related to the Grove (on- and off-site) as well as those improvements most

identified by the residents. The short term projects are depicted in Figure 11 and

are identified in Table 2. In the short term The Grove will have completed the vast

majority of all on- and off-site improvements. There will continue to be on-site

improvements through the entirety of the development process, but the

improvements will go hand in hand with the development of the site. The Grove

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has committed to completing the agreed to off-site improvements as

expeditiously as possible.

SHORT TERM PEDESTRIAN IMPROVEMENTS

Improved pedestrian facilities within the neighborhoods should be provided to

reduce automobile travel demand on local roadways as well as provide

recreational alternatives. As part of the development process, pedestrian

improvements were identified. These will not only facilitate inter-site pedestrian

activity, but will greatly improve off-site access to The Grove.

On-Site - The Grove has committed to designing and constructing sidewalks and

an all-user multi-use path. The sidewalks will provide pedestrian connectivity

between the retail, residential, restaurant, office and recreational areas. The all-

user multi use path will not only provide access for pedestrians, but will also

provide access for joggers, bike riders and other recreationalists.

Off-site – The City of Austin has significant “gaps” in the sidewalk network in

neighborhoods surrounding The Grove. Sidewalks not only provide recreational

opportunities, they allow for non-vehicular dependent mobility. Throughout the

development’s planning process, the commonly expressed need has been to

provide better sidewalk accessibility to “fill the gaps.” Currently residents are

walking in the street, using unmarked paths, neighbor’s yards, or making

unnecessary automobile trips. The following short term recommendations are

recommended to be completed either by the City of Austin, The Grove or a

coordinated effort between the City and The Grove.

In addition to sidewalks, additional pedestrian needs have been identified. As

part of the development, The Grove has agreed to design and install a pedestrian

hybrid beacon at the intersection of 45th St and 2627 45th St. This pedestrian

activated signal will provide a protected crossing for residents from the north to

gain access to the site. An additional protected pedestrian crossing has been

requested at the intersection of 45th St and Ramsey Ave or 45th St and Sinclair Ave.

In conjunction with the above off-site improvements, it is recommended that

additional pedestrian warning signage and pavement markings be installed at

the intersection of Shoal Creek Blvd and 45th St. This will serve to further notify

drivers of the presence of pedestrians as well as more clearly define where the

pedestrians should cross.

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SHORT TERM BICYCLE IMPROVEMENTS

The City of Austin has an avid bicycling community, both recreational and

commuting. As identified by the surrounding neighborhoods, there are many

bicycle improvements needed. Most of these are identified on the Austin Bicycle

Plan (2014). As part of The Grove development, The Grove is proposing to design

and construct an on-site all-user multi-use path, thus it is identified separately. The

construction of on-street bicycle amenities will require coordination between the

City of Austin and The Grove, therefore it is also identified separately.

SHORT TERM TRAFFIC CALMING IMPROVEMENTS

In order to discourage drivers from “cutting through” the Oakmont Neighborhood,

pedestrian refuge or diverter islands are proposed along Bull Creek Rd. Working

with the City of Austin, The Grove will work with the City of Austin on the ultimate

placement, but the intent is to not allow people to turn left into the Oakmont

Neighborhood from Bull Creek Rd or for drivers exiting Oakmont Blvd to turn left

onto Bull Creek Rd. In addition these islands will slow down the traffic traveling

along Bull Creek Rd.

SHORT TERM TRANSIT IMPROVEMENTS

The Grove will work with Capital Metro on the identification and construction of

enhanced transit stops. This could include items such as seating, covered waiting

areas, or enhanced routing information.

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Table 2 : Short Term Multi-Modal Improvements (2015 to 2020)

Mode Improvement Limits Priority Responsibility

Pedestrian –

Sidewalk/Trail Bull Creek Rd

North of 39th St to 45th

St, immediately

adjacent to the site

High

The Grove

Pedestrian –

Sidewalk/Trail

Shoal Creek Blvd

Connectivity

Southeast corner of

site to Shoal Creek

Blvd

High

Pedestrian –

Crossing

Pedestrian Hybrid

Beacon

45th St and 2627 45th

St Medium

The Grove

Pedestrian –

Crossing

Enhanced

Pedestrian

Crossing

45th St and Bull Creek

Rd High

Bicycle On-Site All-User

Multi-Use Path

Throughout The

Grove development High The Grove

Traffic Calming Refuge/Traffic

Diverter lands

Bull Creek Rd in front

of site High The Grove

Transit Enhanced Transit

Stops

Bull Creek Rd in front

of site Medium The Grove

Pedestrian -

Sidewalk

Bull Creek Rd

(both sides)

Jefferson St to North

of 39th St High

City of Austin

Pedestrian -

Sidewalk

Bull Creek Rd

(southbound)

Jackson Ave to 45th

St High

Pedestrian -

Sidewalk Bull Creek Rd 45th St to Hancock Dr High

Pedestrian -

Sidewalk

45th St

(westbound)

Bull Creek to Shoal

Creek Blvd High

Pedestrian –

Crossing

Pedestrian Hybrid

Beacon

45th St/Sinclair Ave

OR 45th St/Ramsey

Avenue

High

City of Austin

Pedestrian –

Crossing

Improved

advanced

warning signage

45th St and Shoal

Creek Blvd Medium

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Bicycle Dedicated Bike

Lane/Cycle Track

Jefferson St to North

of 39th St High City of Austin

RECOMMENDED INTERMEDIATE TERM IMPROVEMENTS (2020 TO 2030)

The intermediate term improvement program will coincide with the ultimate

development of The Grove, however, it is anticipated that the majority of

development related off-site improvements will be completed by this time frame.

As stated previously, site work will still be on-going and there will be continued

work on the on-site needs. The intermediate term projects are depicted in Figure

12 and are identified in Table 3. This table provides a list of the projects by mode.

Table 3 : Intermediate Term Multi-Modal Improvements (2020 to 2025)

Mode Improvement Limits Priority Responsibility

Pedestrian - Bridge

Construct

pedestrain bridge

over Shoal Creek

45th at Shaol

Creek Medium

City of Austin

Pedestrian - Sidewalk Oakmont Blvd

Sidewalks

35th St to Bull

Creek Rd High

Pedestrian - Sidewalk Oakmont Blvd

Sidewalks

45th St to

48th St Medium

Pedestrian - Sidewalk Lawton Ave

Sidewalk

35th St to Bull

Creek Rd Medium

Pedestrian - Sidewalk

Jackson Ave

Sidewalk

(northbound)

35th St to Bull

Creek Rd Medium

Pedestrian - Sidewalk Chiappero Trl

Sidewalk

45th St to

48th Street

Rd

Medium

Pedestrian - Sidewalk 36th St Sidewalk

Jackson Ave

to Bull Creek

Rd

Medium

Pedestrian - Sidewalk 37th St Sidewalk

Jackson Ave

to Bull Creek

Rd

Medium

Pedestrian - Sidewalk 38th St Sidewalk

Jackson Ave

to Bull Creek

Rd

Medium

30

Pedestrian - Sidewalk 39th St Sidewalk

Jackson Ave

to Bull Creek

Rd

Medium

Pedestrian - Sidewalk 40th St Sidewalk

Jackson Ave

to Bull Creek

Rd

Medium

Pedestrian - Sidewalk 41st St Sidewalk

Jackson Ave

to Bull Creek

Rd

Medium

Pedestrian - Sidewalk 42nd St Sidewalk

Jackson Ave

to Bull Creek

Rd

Medium

Bicycle/Pedestrian Shoal Creek

Bridge

The Grove to

Shoal Creek

Blvd

Medium

Traffic Calming –

Speed

Pillows/Cushions

Great Oaks Pkwy

Between

Shoal Creek

Blvd and 45th

St

Medium

Traffic Calming –

Speed

Pillows/Cushions

Oakmont Blvd 35th St to Bull

Creek Rd Medium

Traffic Calming –

Speed

Pillows/Cushions

Lawton Ave 35th St to Bull

Creek Rd Medium

Transit Enhanced Transit

Stops

Bull Creek Rd

between

Hancock Dr

and 38th St

Medium

Capital

Metro/City of

Austin

INTERMEDIATE-TERM PEDESTRIAN IMPROVEMENTS

These improvement have each been identified by the area residents. While

ideally, pedestrian improvements are recommended for both sides of the street,

given both the proximity and walkability to the Grove, one side should be

constructed as quickly as possible. All recommended improvements are off-site

and provide enhanced recreational opportunities as well as improved access.

INTERMEDIATE-TERM BICYCLE IMPROVEMENTS

The most pressing intermediate bicycle improvement is also a pedestrian

improvement. The residents of the Rosedale neighborhood have continued to

request that a bridge over Shoal Creek be constructed that would ultimately

31

connect The Grove to Shoal Creek Blvd. This would allow for greater bicycle

and pedestrian access to the site. While The Grove will be providing an

easement to allow for the bridge’s ultimate construction. They do not own or

control the property between the creek and Shoal Creek Boulevard. The City of

Austin will have to work in coordination with this land owner in the construction

of this bridge.

INTERMEDIATE-TERM TRAFFIC CALMING IMPROVEMENTS

There are several neighborhoods within the study area that have expressed

concern over both excessive speeds as well as cut-through traffic. Many streets

within Rosedale and Allandale have Speed Pillows/Cushions and they have

helped to greatly reduce both cut through traffic and excessive speeding. It is

recommended that these traffic calming devices be installed along Finely Dr,

Great Oaks Pkwy, Oakmont Blvd, and Lawton Ave.

INTERMEDIATE TERM TRANSIT IMPROVEMENTS

The study area is served by many different transit routes and with the potential for

the Lone Star Rail stop in close proximity, it is recommended that the City of Austin

work with Capital Metro and install enhanced transit stops. This can include

anything from seating upgrades, covered pavilions to improved routing

information.

RECOMMENDED LONG TERM IMPROVEMENTS (2025 TO 2035)

The long term improvement program is recommended for consideration after The

Grove is completed and fully built out. In addition, by this time it is anticipated

that the Lone Star rail stop will be better understood as well as Capital Metro’s

long range transit plans. Given this, there are two recommendations that are

made when conditions warrant. These are depicted in Figure 13 and identified in

Table 4.

Table 4 : Long Term Multi-Modal Improvements (2025 to 2035)

Mode Improvement Limits Priority Responsibility

Transit Enhanced Transit Stops Study

Area Low

Capital Metro/City

of Austin

Transit Provide connectivity between Lone

Star and neighborhood

Study

Area Low

Capital Metro/City

of Austin

32

33

34

35

5 | CONCLUSIONS The development of The Grove at Shoal Creek necessitates a review of not only

roadway and site related needs, but also the needs for the residents of the

surrounding neighborhoods.

Through the development of The Grove, we have a unique opportunity, in the

heart of central Austin, to create an accessible community through the develop-ment and implementation of a robust pedestrian, bicycle and transit system.

As part of the project development, The Grove will be completing all site related

improvements, and will continue to work with both the surrounding neighborhoods

and the City of Austin to implement those identified non-site related recommendations.

The recommendations contained within this study provide a framework for

rational development of an efficient multi-modal system. Implementation of these

recommendations will require continued cooperation and coordination between

neighborhood residents, the City of Austin, and other officials making judicious

decisions concerning the availability and use of funding mechanisms.

Implementation of the various components of the plan is an important element

in addressing and improving the future mobility needs to the local residents.