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LOCKHART, Texas (KXAN) – For the first time in decades, the city of Lockhart has a new plan to upgrade its downtown area.
The staff started a series of open house days on Monday and are still looking for community feedback.
Taylor and Austin Burge opened Chaparral Coffee in downtown Lockhart Square about five years ago when they were moving from Austin.
“Our little café … we live just a few minutes’ walk from the square, so we feel like we are living this typical small-town life,” said Taylor.
The two are in the process of opening another store, the Good Things grocery store.
They love the idea of allowing more people to walk to their stores, which is a big part of the City of Lockhart’s revitalization plan. These include lengthening curbs, widening sidewalks and improving zebra crossings.
“More bike-friendly, more pedestrian-friendly,” said Austin.
The Burges believe the changes will make downtown better for families.
“It’s a dangerous square,” said Taylor. “Nobody knows whether to give in or keep going.”
The city of Lockhart wants to counter this with new intersection concepts.
City of Lockhart new intersection designs
In addition, employees want to convert some streets into a one-way street to support the increasing flow of traffic, as well as create more centralized parking spaces, including parallel and angled parking spaces.
Lockhart proposed a downtown revitalization project
“The city made some changes as needed, but not a project as large as this,” said Victoria Maranan, Lockhart City Public Information Officer.
The revitalization plan also includes the modernization of a drainage and sewage system that is over 50 years old.
“We want to be able to keep up and make sure everyone is accommodated,” said Maranan.
The Burges who raise their families there are happy that the city center is getting even better for their entire community.
“We’re really excited about all of the options,” said Taylor.
This project, which requires approval from Lockhart City Council, is expected to cost up to $ 8 million. This does not affect the tax rate.
There is a questionnaire that Lockhart City officials fill out by residents to provide feedback on their suggestion.
You can see her full presentation here.
The next open day to discuss the proposal will take place in January 2022.
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https://www.kxan.com/news/business/city-of-lockhart-proposes-downtown-revitalization-project-that-could-cost-up-to-8-million-feedback-requested/
