Vision 2020 reveals top 10; includes moving Spam museum, fiber optics, linking trails

Published 7:12 pm Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Below are the 10 “visions statements” of Vision 2020 in no particular order to be implemented by the end of the decade:

Community Wide Technology

Provide every home, school and business with low cost, state-of-the-art technology including fiber optics and wireless internet throughout the City of Austin to increase economic prosperity, enhance education and heighten community safety.

Expanded Bike/Walk Trail System

Connect members of the community and welcome guests through a safe integrated bike/walk trail system linking neighborhoods, parks, shopping and attractions throughout the greater Austin area, including bike lanes on major city streets.

Community Recreational Center

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Create a year round recreation center of architectural significance which will be a welcoming place for everyone in our community to meet, exercise and play. The recreation campus will have state- of- the-art fitness facilities such as a family aquatic center, practice facilities and programs supporting healthy living in a safe affordable environment.

Embrace and Maintain our Waterways

Clean and maintain all waterways and shorelines in the community and beyond to enhance recreational opportunities such as kayaking, canoeing, tubing, swimming and fishing, adding beauty through public gardens, lighted waterways and water features.

Gateway to Austin Attraction

Erect a creative and iconic I-90 overpass attraction representative of our community’s identity. This “Gateway to Austin” between 4th St. NW and 14th St. NW will facilitate traffic north and south, host unique retail establishments, and most importantly, provide a pathway to visitors to stop and explore the many appealing facets of Austin.

Revitalization of Austin Utilities Building

Transform the old utilities building into the anchor for Austin’s Art Row, by converting it into a modern multi-use structure that would house the SPAMuseum and a variety of specialty shops, businesses, eateries and other attractions. The design of this structure will complement the Main Street Renovation Project.

Education Leaders

Develop a world class, unique city-wide learning campus linking together the arts, education, science and business communities. This environment will emphasize programs in science and technology, college readiness, alternative learning and real life application to prepare students for workforce and/or higher education.

Downtown Austin a Destination Point

Establish downtown Austin as a premier small city center, with development of a park/plaza gathering area to host outdoor events throughout the year. The neighborhood will be strengthened by healthy interaction of residents, business owners and entrepreneurs which will stimulate rehabilitation and economic development in the city center.

Business Friendly Environment

Create and implement stand out incentives as part of economic development to position Austin as the region’s center for entrepreneurs. Invite, finance and support existing and new entrepreneurs, encourage retail, while emphasizing reuse of underutilized buildings on both sides of 18th Ave. NW.

Community Pride and Spirit

Create a positive community spirit by fostering service, support and mentorship programs geared towards improving the quality of life and opportunities for all citizens. Support physical beautification through neighborhood organizations working in collaboration with existing programs.