The Austin City Council said “no” to Pacelli Catholic Schools’ request to vacate Third Avenue Northwest between Fourth and Fifth streets.

The City Council voted 4-3 against Pacelli’s plan Monday night.

Pacelli officials had said taking Third Avenue private would result in safer transportation for students, almost all of whom from elementary to high school walk between Pacelli High School and Pacelli Elementary School on a daily basis. Pacelli would create a school campus for its students if the city vacates the road.

Yet taking the roadway private would have meant significant costs for the city, according to public works officials.

Look to www.austindailyherald.com and Tuesday’s Herald for the full story.