There’s always activity going on in downtown Austin, but sometimes only part of the story is available. The last couple of weeks have been those sort of weeks. Several exciting things look to be in the works, so we’d like to share what we know, and hopefully provide updates as we receive them!
501 W 6th – Site Plan filed
Recently, the folks controlling 501 W 6th (better known as the Miller Blue Print site) filed a site plan application to construct a mixed-use building on the site. The site is currently CBD and about 20,000sf – and you can build up to the lot line. We hope to see something exciting there announced soon.
Miller vacated the site earlier this year, though it looks like the family still owns the lot.
88 Rainey – Change of Use Permit Filed
Sister site, REATX.com recently reported on a Change of Use permit recently filed for 88 Rainey (currently a vacant, dilapidated old house). Unsurprisingly, the new use will be a cocktail lounge – rumored to be a Cuban concept headed up by some of the same crew that put together nearby Bungalow. Last year, owners of the site filed a site plan exemption, which was denied – but we think that if a cocktail lounge does snap up the spot, the changes to the structure will likely be limited and it will feel like most of the other Rainey bungalow bars. There was also a tree removal permit filed for the site last year and that will likely go forward, as the landscaping on the site looks like it could take it down a notch.
219 West – Various Permits Filed
Rendering of The Riley, 2013
A while back, Downtown Austin Blog broke the story about the proposed event venue named The Riley at the former 219 West (address: 219 W 4th) site. Well, there’s been movement on the site – but it looks like plans may be going in a different direction. Maybe.
Permits have recently been filed to change the use from cocktail lounge to residential / office use, and to make an addition for underground parking and a 527 sf rooftop terrace with pavilion. We wonder if the owner will use the site for personal use (sort of like a live / work arrangement), or if there are other creative plans for perhaps leasing the office structure out and using the residential portion as a short-term rental (of which there is a lack of in downtown due to various HOA restrictions in most condo buildings).
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