The City of Austin is one of the fastest growing, both in terms of population and economic development, in the United States.
What does Austin mean to you, and what does its future look like?
Serving as the City Manager of Austin is both a privilege and a significant responsibility. With over a million residents and Austin’s role as the state capital, the decisions made here impact not only the city but the entire region. Austin’s growth has attracted national attention, with people and businesses relocating here, giving the city a unique advantage in Texas.
We see this evolution most clearly downtown, where the shift from office-centric development (2000-2020) to a residential focus has created a 24-hour city. The Downtown Austin Alliance is currently tracking 17 construction projects totaling 7.8 million sq. ft., including 3,350 new residential units and 2.5 million sq. ft. of office space. With 30 additional projects in the planning stages, Austin's walkable, eclectic environment is driving unprecedented residential growth, further strengthening the city’s role as the "Live Music Capital of the World."
How does Austin maintain its cultural identity while attracting high-tech businesses?
Austin’s cultural vibrancy thrives alongside its growing tech sector, largely because the people working in these industries are drawn to the city’s dynamic urban environment. The atmosphere downtown reflects this, with residents enjoying street-side eateries, cycling, and spending time outdoors—even on weekday evenings. This lifestyle is central to Austin’s identity and makes it a compelling place to live and work. The city's festivals, sports events, and arts scene further enrich this unique cultural mix. These experiences not only attract visitors but often inspire them to move here. Austin’s ability to blend arts, entertainment, and technology creates a sense of belonging that encourages people to stay and contribute to its growth.
What strategies are in place to ensure Austin remains competitive despite potential talent migration to other hubs?
We are prioritizing infrastructure and economic development to maintain Austin’s competitive edge. Significant projects include the $1.27 billion redevelopment of our convention center, which will begin in 2025 and reopen in 2029. Once completed, it will generate an estimated $750 million in annual economic impact, significantly up from the current $468 million. This expansion will also position Austin’s convention center among the top 35 largest in the country, enabling us to attract larger events and retain local businesses like Dell that have outgrown the existing space.
At the same time, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is undergoing a $3 billion expansion to support growing passenger numbers, which reached 22 million in 2023—double its original capacity. We’ve secured $39 million in federal funding to support key projects, including the design of Concourse B and the west gate expansion. These initiatives enhance connectivity and ensure Austin remains a desirable destination for business and leisure travelers.
How is Austin addressing population growth and traffic congestion challenges?
Austin’s rapid growth necessitates thoughtful urban planning. We’re focusing on densifying key areas and developing the Project Connect light rail system, scheduled for construction in 2027, with operations beginning by 2033. This $7.1 billion investment will connect neighborhoods, reduce reliance on single-occupancy vehicles, and prepare the city to accommodate future population growth. Additionally, we are reimagining parts of I-35 by capping sections of the highway to create green spaces and reconnect communities divided by infrastructure. These efforts align with our goal to cut single-occupancy vehicle use in half while promoting transit-oriented and park-oriented development. Together, these initiatives aim to preserve Austin’s quality of life as the city grows.
What keeps you up at night as the City Manager?
Affordability is a key concern as rising housing costs challenge residents’ ability to stay in Austin. We are working to provide affordable housing options across income levels, ensuring the city remains accessible. Public safety is also a priority—our city cannot thrive if residents don’t feel secure in their communities. Infrastructure demands are growing alongside the population, putting pressure on limited resources. With local governments now expected to address needs once managed by federal and state entities, collaboration with private and philanthropic sectors is essential. Balancing these priorities while ensuring sustainable growth is one of our most pressing challenges.
What legacy would you like to leave by 2030, and how do you expect Austin to evolve?
By 2030, I hope people will see that we anticipated challenges and implemented solutions to ensure the city’s long-term success. Our focus on affordability, infrastructure, and quality of life will prepare residents to thrive in a changing economic landscape. The goal is to create a city where people can grow personally and professionally, enjoy their lives, and feel connected to their community. We want Austin to remain one of the leading cities in the country, providing opportunities for all who live here while being a place they proudly call home.
