In a unanimous vote, the Austin City Council on Thursday approved Item 31 in an effort to address persistent public safety challenges, and build upon on the early results of the Sixth Street pilot program.
Austin City Councilmember Zo Qadri released this statement following the successful passage of his resolution:
“Austin deserves a Sixth Street that reflects who we are — vibrant, safe, and inclusive for everyone. We’re not here to maintain the status quo. We’re building a district that’s safer, more inclusive, and truly reflective of our city’s values. Thanks to Mayor Watson and our dedicated City staff, we’re moving with intention and holding ourselves accountable to real, lasting transformation.”
Early results from the Sixth Street pilot are promising — arrests and use-of-force incidents are down, as are officer injuries.
Item 31 boosts enforcement to address persistent safety issues on Sixth Street. It moves forward a long-recommended year-round Public Assembly Code Enforcement (PACE) team for inspections and rapid response, explores a new entertainment license for late-night venues to reduce repeat code violations, including overcrowding, underage drinking, and fire hazards, and evaluates pathways to regulate vacant and abandoned properties, and assess lighting needs downtown.
Additionally, it expands data collection across departments—including transportation, public safety, and economic development—and requests recommendations to improve traffic flow, parking, and pedestrian access.
