New multi-use development slated for area near Pflugerville HS
Plans for a new urban retail and residential development near Pflugerville High School similar to Austin’s Domain and Triangle shopping districts are moving forward now that city council members have passed zoning regulations for the planned unit development.
Pflugerville City Council members passed an ordinance on first reading to create a new planned unit development on 45.7 acres south of Pecan Street and west of Heatherwilde Boulevard to be known as The Commons at Heatherwilde and Pecan.
City officials said developers envision the development as a walkable, urban-like area with retail and a variety of housing options for rent and for sale. The PUD also intends to provide a range of living, working, shopping and recreation options. A future park and ride transit center may also be possible for the development, officials said.
Emily Barron, city planning director, said the area is the “western gateway” into Pflugerville. ”(It) really is that major focal point property as you’re coming into Pflugerville,” she said.
Mayor Jeff Coleman compared the project to Austin’s Triangle shopping and residential development. Galindo said the market has more demand for those types of projects, which mix residential with shopping and dining options.
The development will feature a “festival street” with retail stores and restaurants for people to walk along and shop, Galindo said. Developers said they hope to get people off the loud arterial of Pecan Street and onto a quiet street with retail options and a lively plaza.
The property will include one public street and the rest of the streets will be private drives, Barron said.Developers also expect the project will help meet a demand for office space in the area since rent in Austin is becoming increasingly expensive, Galindo said.
A parking garage will likely be needed when the development is fully occupied by tenants, Galindo said. Officials have begun working on the first phase of the project, which they expect will feature a 250-unit apartment building, he said.