The city of Austin formally designated the African American Cultural Heritage District in 2007, but recently decided to focus new planning and economic development energy to reaffirm the district's significance in the community.
"After several last-minute edits, a resolution calling for the city to reaffirm and expand on its designation of an African American Cultural Heritage District in East Austin was unanimously passed by City Council Sept. 2," reports Ben Thompson.
The resolution clears the way to promote and celebrate the district in city documents and in public, according to Thompson. "On that front, city maps will be updated to note the district's place in the city; new public art, signage and other features will be added throughout the area; and the city will seek formal historic designations for the area's cultural and historical landmarks."
According to Thompson, the resolution also calls for neighborhood planning and redevelopment goals for a cultural center and an evaluation of improvements and redevelopment geared toward culture, retail, and affordable housing.
FULL STORY: Council renews city support for East Austin's African American cultural district
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