austin news

Round Up

Jude Galligan | September 18, 2009 |

It's Better To Build Vertical Than Horizontal

As we’re traveling this week, below is what’s happening in downtown Austin.

1) ROMA’s density bonus proposal (a must read pdf) is getting lots of attention, especially the conversation surrounding the Warehouse District. Thanks to Miggy, M1EK, and Roger for the informed commentary.

Update: I encourage DAB readers take few minutes to familiarize themselves with ROMA’s proposal. Page 21 highlights gradually sloping height limits from neighborhood to core. The Warehouse District recommendations are a small component of a larger thought process. Equal attention could be paid to the 3:1 FAR recommendation for the Market District along Lamar. Philosophically, the entire proposal is still a “tax” on density in downtown Austin, which seems backwards to me.

2) The Austonian tops out. Did you know that you can now see the Austonian from four counties?

3) J Blacks’ menu gets some respect from Maggie’s Austin.

4) ThunderCloud will soon serve subs below 360.

Shoppers Prefer Smaller Grocers

Jude Galligan | April 6, 2009 |

Consumer Reports [via Reuters] confirms our suspicion that mega-box grocers underwhelm, and it’s preferable to pay a little more for a pleasant experience.

“The few chains that were spotless, offered standout meat and produce, and had helpful and friendly staff and quick checkout” according to Consumer Reports.

Statesman Blotter Headlines

Jude Galligan | March 18, 2009 |

David Cross robbed your bank — Did David Cross just rob your bank?

Recently, the Statesman’s Blotter headlines have provided me with a few chuckles. I don’t intend to make light of the actual crimes – at all – just the headlines.

The above man, bearing a strong resemblance to David Cross (aka. Tobias Funke), apparently entered a bank and demanded money. The bank gave it to him. Is it really that simple? Then, there was the story of two men stealing socks and a chicken from Wal Mart in Cedar Park. Look at those ready-for-myspace mug shots! Next, was a story involving a carnival worker. Not a funny story.

Rail, rail, rail

Jude Galligan | February 20, 2009 |

Map Of Potential High-Speed Rail Built By The Stimulus

Huffington Post speculates on how stimulus dollars could impact regional high-speed rail networks.

Impostors?

Jude Galligan | February 13, 2009 |

Capitalism is alive and well in downtown Austin.

KVUE is reporting on “parking lot impostors” that pretend to work for the parking company and take your money. I prefer to call these people disenfranchised capitalistic carnival barkers. According to KVUE.com “Parking lot impostors in downtown Austin are costing customers and parking lot owners money. Police say the issue generates more complaints downtown than any other. KVUE’s Jim Bergamo reports.” In addition to being scammed for your cash, you’re likely to be towed, too. This video is not news to anyone that spends time downtown, but it’s nice to see some coverage in the mass media.

The guys waiving you into a public parking space are another breed of bum-preneur. You know the guys waving their arms along 5th street offering you a public parking space with the additional bonus of them looking after your car if you could spare some change.

link to video