April 8th, 2025 - Work Session of the Austin City Council
Community Advocacy at the Council Work Session
On April 8, 2025, the Austin City Council held a work session to discuss the I-35 Cap and Stitch project. Community members and advocates emphasized the importance of the project in reconnecting neighborhoods divided by I-35, addressing historical inequities, and creating new public spaces. They urged the Council to commit to funding the foundational roadway elements necessary for future caps, highlighting that this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity. Advocates also pointed out that without this commitment, the chance to build these caps could be lost for decades.
Key Takeaways
• Financial Commitment Required: The Council must decide by May 31, 2025, whether to allocate approximately $284 million for the foundational elements of the caps. This decision is crucial, as it will determine the feasibility of constructing the caps in the future.
• Federal Funding Uncertainty: A previously awarded $105 million federal grant is currently under review, adding uncertainty to the project’s funding landscape.
• Economic and Social Benefits: Proponents argue that the caps would not only provide new public spaces and parks but also stimulate economic development and help heal the divisions caused by the original construction of I-35.
April 4th, 2025 - Four City Council Members Communicate Their Support
Council Members Advocate for I-35 Cap and Stitch Project
In a recent message on the City Council’s forum, Council Members José “Chito” Vela, José Velásquez, Ryan Alter, and Zo Qadri emphasized the critical nature of funding the foundational roadway elements necessary for the proposed I-35 caps. They highlighted that failing to commit to this funding now could forfeit the opportunity to construct these caps for the next 50 years or more.
The council members drew parallels to successful projects in other cities, such as Dallas’s Klyde Warren Park and Seattle’s Alaskan Way Viaduct removal, to illustrate the transformative potential of capping I-35. They argued that these caps could heal the divide caused by the highway, create valuable central Austin land for parks and development, and promote long-term economic growth.
They also posed several questions to city staff, seeking detailed analyses on economic impacts, funding opportunities, and lessons from similar projects in other cities. These inquiries aim to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the project’s benefits and challenges before the upcoming work session on April 8.
March 26, 2025 - Design Assistant Team (DAT) Working Sessions
How the DAT Is Helping Move the Movement Forward
Last week, our community came together to imagine the long-term future of the Hancock-Cherrywood area—and the Communities by Design Assistance Team (DAT) played a key role in making it happen. Over 100 neighbors, planners, and advocates gathered to share ideas, ask questions, and shape a vision for a more connected and inclusive future.
The DAT team didn’t come to prescribe answers—they came to listen. Through hands-on workshops, small group conversations, and a closing presentation, they helped surface what matters most to our community. Their insights will soon be captured in a report that lays the groundwork for what’s next—including timely advocacy like funding the I-35 Northern Caps. The updated initial presentation can be reviewed here.
This is just the beginning, and we’re so grateful to the DAT for helping us start strong.