Austin’s Congress Avenue Set for $13M Revamp

Austin’s iconic Congress Avenue is slated for a major facelift under the Congress Avenue Urban Design Initiative, aimed at creating a “complete street with a clear and attractive identity.” The initial phase covers Cesar Chavez Street to Seventh Street, focusing on:

• Expanded sidewalks and pedestrian amenity zones

  

• Improved tree health and bikeway barriers

• Adjusted turn lanes to optimize traffic flow

The $13 million project, funded through the city’s 2020 Mobility Bond, is scheduled to begin early 2026 and continue through 2027, with each block’s construction taking approximately three months. Pedestrian access along Congress Avenue will be maintained throughout the work period, ensuring minimal disruption.

This revamp positions Congress Avenue as a safer, more pedestrian-friendly, and visually cohesive corridor in Austin’s downtown.