Overview

 
 

For years, neighborhood leaders in central Austin have advocated on various rezoning cases, improvements to I-35, additional transit, and supported well-designed planning and density.

In 2023, as proposals emerged for three Northern Caps over I-35 adjacent to the large commercial properties of Hancock Center and Delwood Center, neighborhood leaders began to organize in an effort to shape the long-term future of this 60+ acre area.

However, the City of Austin has limited bandwidth to amend existing Neighborhood Plans or to respond to newer challenges and opportunities such as presented by the Hancock-Cherrywood area.  

Purpose

Initiate a community-led, long-term (10+ year), scenario-based vision for the area that leverages the added value from the proposed Northern Caps over I-35 and the added value of a potential new Red Line rail station. 

Use the process to launch collaborations with private landowners and reinforce advocacy with Austin City Council to fund the Roadway Elements of the proposed Northern Caps over I-35. 

Focus on place-making to create a neighborhood center and urban node that works for all of Austin.

Timeline

May 2024 - City Council adopted a resolution (20240530-170) in support of a neighborhood led application to the Architect’s Foundation for a Design Assistance Team to initiate a long-term vision for the area.

August 2024 - DAT application was approved with Rally Austin as the fiscal agent.

October 2025 - DAT Team preliminary visit to study area to meet with leaders from Cherrywood and Hancock, as well as City of Austin staff, and urban design and transit advocates

March 2025 – DAT Team multi-day workshop:

  • 25 subject matter experts in small-group stakeholder sessions

  • 100+ attendees for Community Open House

  • 50+ attendees for Final Presentation

  • Anticipated May 2025 – DAT Team final deliverables

Updates - Spring 2025

Community organizers are sharing the initial presentation from the DAT Team, see here, and continuing to advocate to the City Council to fund all or some of the I-35 Northern Caps. 

Send an email here for more information! hancock.cherrywood.sc@gmail.com

Last Updated: May 19, 2025