Since the Save Our Springs amendment was passed in 2007, no developer has tested the ordinance that applies to redeveloping properties over the sensitive Central Texas Edwards Aquifer. Before 2007, there was no allowance for redevelopment made in the Save Our Springs ordinance, first enacted in 1992.
The original ordinance only allows for 15-25% impervious cover, depending on the location with regard to the recharge zone of the Edwards Aquifer. Also required in this area are large catchment zones to redirect water into the soil. The new plan allows developers to compensate for the difference in impervious cover by purchasing green space or contributing to a city fund for green space over the Barton Springs zone.
Originally planned as an all commercial project, the new Tarlton 360 development will transform the old Cinemark theater site. Instead of a commercially intensive plan, the developers have adopted a mixed use plan that should be better received by the community. The initial site plan is currently going through the necessary process to be approved by the end of summer 2010, and construction should begin in early 2011. The project is estimated to be complete in two years.
Benefits of the redevelopment will be a decreased traffic rate from the former use, and a greatly increased pollutant removal, thanks to a more efficient water quality pond with increased filtration and re-irrigation to recycle stormwater runoff on-site. The old site plan consists of approximately 53% impervious cover, and the redevelopment should be similar. Thanks to www.impactnews.com for much of the information about the Tarlton 360 redevelopment project and the 2007 Save Our Springs Ordinance amendment.
If you have questions about the Tarlton 360 Townhomes project, or any other real estate in the greater Austin Texas area, please call me, Shelley Rowton at (512) 507-5779. RE/MAX River City, Realtors - Where we get things done!
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