North Austin News

Austin city officials and community leaders gathered at Parkside restaurant to discuss changes aimed at enhancing safety on East Sixth Street. Mayor Kirk Watson highlighted the primary modification of relocating pedestrians from the roadway to widened, protected sidewalks. Historically, Sixth Street has been closed to vehicles from Thursday to Sunday, allowing crowds to gather in the street. This month, safety equipment was installed for sidewalk widening, with fencing scheduled for installation.

Starting this week, Sixth Street will be open to westbound traffic over the weekend. However, north and southbound traffic at intersections with San Jacinto, Trinity, and Neches streets will remain closed during this period.

Mayor Watson emphasized the vision for Sixth Street: "Sixth Street should be a place that is vibrant at all hours... Most of all, Sixth Street must be safe."

Police Chief Lisa Davis noted her efforts in studying Sixth Street's dynamics and developing a safe traffic plan in collaboration with other city departments. The plan included a December trial reopening of vehicular traffic on certain nights without incidents. Details are available on Austin's website.

Davis advised visitors to maintain slower speeds and observe new signage related to parking and street closures: “If you are driving... please be aware of new signage.”

Anna Martin from the Transportation and Public Works Department explained the installation of rubber curbs and white flex posts between Brazos and Red River streets. These measures aim to separate pedestrian areas from vehicle lanes while preventing crossing into pedestrian zones.

City Council Member Zo Qadri remarked on revitalizing Historic Sixth Street as part of a comprehensive approach: “These changes implemented today are just one step... I am committed to making this iconic entertainment district safer.”

Sheryl Sculley from Downtown Austin Alliance commended city efforts: “I do want to compliment Mayor Watson, Chief Davis... We spend a tremendous amount of time working on how we make downtown safer.” She reaffirmed support for these initiatives.