Austin, Texas is known for its stunning skyline, rolling hills, and diverse neighborhoods. However, these features are not just a product of nature and human development, but also the result of carefully planned urban design. One such design element is the Capital View Corridors.
What are the Capital View Corridors?
The Capital View Corridors are a series of lines that run throughout the city of Austin, demarcating specific sightlines from which the State Capitol Building and other notable structures in the city can be viewed. These corridors are protected by city zoning regulations that limit the height and mass of new buildings within the specified areas.
Image Courtesy: Bryan Rutherford
History and Establishment of Capital View Corridors
The Capital View Corridors were established in 1984, with the adoption of the Austin skyline height plan. The height plan was created to preserve the visual prominence of the State Capitol Building and the scenic character of the city. The plan was developed by the city's Planning and Zoning Department and incorporated feedback from community groups, developers, and city officials.
Where are the Corridors located?
There are 30 Capital View Corridors in total, each with its own unique view of the Capitol Building. The corridors are located throughout the city and are visible from various vantage points, including parks, streets, and other public spaces. Some of the most notable corridors include the Congress Avenue corridor, the Lady Bird Lake corridor, and the West Campus corridor.
Image Courtesy: https://www.ahenryrose.com/resources/archives/10-2017
Impact of Capital View Corridors on Building in and around Austin
The Capital View Corridors have had a significant impact on building in and around Austin. The regulations have ensured that the Capitol Building remains a visual landmark, and have preserved the character of the city's skyline. Developers must comply with zoning regulations and building codes to construct buildings within the corridors. This has resulted in a unique and diverse cityscape that preserves the scenic beauty of Austin.
Conclusion
The Capital View Corridors in Austin, Texas are a unique urban design element that preserves the visual prominence of the State Capitol Building and the scenic character of the city. Established in 1984, the corridors limit the height and mass of new buildings within the specified areas. There are 30 corridors located throughout the city, visible from various vantage points. The corridors have had a significant impact on building in and around Austin, resulting in a diverse cityscape that preserves the scenic beauty of the city.
Additional Resources:
https://www.austintexas.gov/edims/document.cfm?id=277001
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Texas_Capitol_View_Corridors
https://icma.org/sites/default/files/301744_Downtown%20Development%20Comission%20Report.pdf