Envision New Braunfels
ii | ENVISION NEW BRAUNFELS
A Special Place by Design
Publication Date: June 2018
Prepared for: The City of New Braunfels
Prepared by: Design Workshop, Inc. Binkley & Barfield, Inc. Lionheart Places Pegasus Consulting PROS Consulting
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION 1 ENVISION NEW BRAUNFELS 4 RECENT INITIATIVES 8 PLAN ELEMENTS 10 COMMUNITY OUTREACH 12 ADVISORY GROUPS AND STEERING COMMITTEE 14 VISION AND GOALS 28 IMPLEMENTATION ROADMAP 30 STRATEGIES 31 GROWTH AND FUTURE LAND USE 33 EXISTING CONDITIONS 34 PLAN ELEMENT ADVISORY GROUP RECAP 46 GROWTH AND FUTURE LAND USE GOALS 47 URBAN DESIGN AND CULTURAL, HERITAGE, AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION 49 EXISTING CONDITIONS 50 PLAN ELEMENT ADVISORY GROUP RECAP 58 URBAN DESIGN AND CULTURAL, HERITAGE, AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION GOALS 59 PARKS, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE 61 EXISTING CONDITIONS 62 PLAN ELEMENT ADVISORY GROUP RECAP 72 PARKS, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE GOALS 73 ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS 75 EXISTING CONDITIONS 76 PLAN ELEMENT ADVISORY GROUP RECAP 84 ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS GOALS 85 TOURISM 87 EXISTING CONDITIONS 88 PLAN ELEMENT ADVISORY GROUP RECAP 94 TOURISM GOALS 95 TRANSPORTATION 97 EXISTING CONDITIONS 98 PLAN ELEMENT ADVISORY GROUP RECAP 110 TRANSPORTATION GOALS 111 FACILITIES, SERVICES AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS 113 EXISTING CONDITIONS 114 PLAN ELEMENT ADVISORY GROUP RECAP 128 FACILITIES GOALS 129 EDUCATION AND YOUTH 131 EXISTING CONDITIONS 132 PLAN ELEMENT ADVISORY GROUP RECAP 136 EDUCATION AND YOUTH GOALS 137 NATURAL RESOURCES AND INFRASTRUCTURE 139 EXISTING CONDITIONS 140 PLAN ELEMENT ADVISORY GROUP RECAP 148 NATURAL RESOURCES AND INFRASTRUCTURE GOALS 149 IMPLEMENTATION ROADMAP 151 FUTURE LAND USE PLAN 152 STRATEGIES 180 POTENTIAL PARTNERS 234
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
MAYOR PLANNING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT Barron Casteel, Mayor / At Large Director, Christopher Looney, AICP Assistant Director, Stacy Snell, AICP, CNU-A Planning Intern, Emilio Levario CITY COUNCIL Planning Technician, Matt Johnson George Green / Shane Hines, District 1 Planning Technician, Katherine Crowe Justin Meadows, District 2 Planning Technician, Maddison O’Kelley Ron Reaves / Harry Bowers, District 3 Senior Planner, Holly Mullins, AICP Chris Monceballez / Matthew Hoyt, District 4 Planner, Matt Greene, CFM Wayne Peters, Mayor Pro Tem, District 5 Planner, Benjamin Campbell Leah A. Garcia, District 6 Planner, Matthew Simmont Administrative Assistant, Cydnie Samora OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER Downtown Development Coordinator/Historic Preservation Officer, Robert Camareno, Office of the City Manager Amy McWhorter Kristi Aday, Assistant City Manager Bryan Woods, Assistant City Manager The Planning and Community Development Department would like to thank members of the Envision New Braunfels Steering Committee, Plan Element Advisory Groups and all other individuals, organizations and public agencies PLANNING COMMISSION that provided input and assistance throughout for the plan. Cory Elrod, Chair** Lee Edwards, Vice Chair STEERING COMMITTEE Creighton Tubb Ron Reaves (Chair) Councilman, District 3 Chad Nolte Michael Meek, President, New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce Darin Conkright Scott Haag, Comal County Commissioner, Precinct 2 Jerry Sonier Andrew Kim, Superintendent, Comal ISD Matthew Hoyt Jack Shanafelt, Guadalupe County Commissioner, Precinct 2 Stanley Laskowski Stuart Hansmann, President, New Braunfels Economic Development Troy Bearden Corporation Harry Bowers Randy Moczygemba, Superintendent, New Braunfels ISD Atanacio Campos, Vice President, NBU Board Cory Elrod, Chairman, Planning Commission **Steering Committee vi | PLAN ELEMENT ADVISORY GROUPS
GROWTH AND FUTURE Donald Walter Cooper Glenn H. Griffin Richard D. LaRochelle LAND USE: John Cotellesse Amy Gusman Kio D. Legler Atanacio Campos** Susan M. Cotellesse Jaclyn Hall Michael Peter Lehmann Cory Elrod** Douglas Burnette Cottle Terri Hall Deborah Lewis Mary Bauerlein Allen Jen Crownover Larry Hammonds Mark List Pat Allen Thomas Marvin Daum Mark Hampton James E. Mahan Amanda Marie Anding Carola M. Davis Stephen Hanshaw John R. Mannino Matt Prather Anding Ashley Scott Davison Stephen Wade Hanz John Manthey Don Austin J. Lee Deardorff Matthew R. Harrison Shannon Marek Bob Barber John Dierksen Laurie Hawkins Angie D. Martinez Richard Nicholas Beach Frank H. Dietz Melissa Hearrell Patricia Anne McCoy Troy Bearden Larry Dobbins James Heinbaugh Terry Mechler Roger R. Biggers Doug Draeger Will Taylor Henry Rachel Meissner Robert Lansing Blythin Laura DuPont Shane Hines Jane W. Miller Connie Born D. Lee Edwards Yvonne Elaine Hoffmann Garry Don Montgomery Britin Bostick Gerald (Jerry) David Everett Tom Hovestadt William Morgan Tricia Boucher Michael Edward Fogerty Debra Howell Scott Morris Harry Toulmin Bowers Antoinette (Toni) Fournet Scott R. Jauregui Matt Morse Arthur A. Brinkkoeter Michael Fredrickson Jeff Jewell Jan Kotylo Morton Brannon Brooke Elroy J. Friesenhahn Jerry Turner Jr. Sandy J. Nolte Austen Grant Brown Terrence Michael Frost Ray A. Kappel Tracey M. Norris David Brown Cheryle Fuller Bryan Kastleman Lynn Norvell Travis Brown Sabrina Andrea Fumagalli Al Kaufmann Scott Nowack Edward Bruce Cambell Shaun David Gibson Crystal Kinman Jeffrey Organ Sandra Harley Carey Sheryl Gibson Gary Wayne Kirkham Daniel Reece Orr Mary Ann Carter Christine M. Gonzalez Earl Koester Donna Pacheco Joe A. Castilleja Jerry Goode Barbara Lackey Jennifer Michelle Parker Gene Challenner Bob Gray Patrick Lackey Annalisa Peace
** Envision New Braunfels Steering Committee
vii PLAN ELEMENT ADVISORY GROUPS
Patrick Edwin Pence Ronald Joseph Walton Gene Challenner Kathleen W. Jaroszewski Melinda Koester Poss Sue Dwelle Waters Cindy Coers Robin Michelle Jeffers John Ross Powell Brad Wehring John B. Coers Jeff Jewell Mary Powell Ralph H. Wiesepape Douglas Burnette Cottle Teresa Ohlrich Johnson Alice Pullin Julie Willeke Andrea (Tody) D. Jerry Turner Jr. Lee W. Rahe Patrick T. Winn Thomas Marvin Daum Jan Kingsbury Belinda Raindl Kelle Wirt Carola M. Davis David Kneuper Marc Rhodes David Wolters La Cerda, Rosa Linda D Earl J. Koester Donna Rice Keith W. Wooley John Dierksen Michael Douglas Lee Rusty G. Rice Timothy Dean Word Brandon F. Dietert Bonnie Leitch Scott Roots Deedy Wright Michael Dietert Curt Leonhardt Corban Walker Rosenauer Joyce A. Yannuzzi Laura Robledo Etter Courtney Lyons-Garcia Kelly Annette Rotzler Stephen Craig Zgabay Michael Edward Fogerty Eunice Maricela Macias Kelly Diane Sadler Ted Zimmerhanzel Nancy Ford James E. Mahan Chris Sandahl Cynthia Foster John R. Mannino Michel Schadt URBAN DESIGN AND CULTURAL, Terrence Michael Frost Shannon Marek Kama Scheffel HERITAGE AND HISTORIC Linda Heitkamp Gabbard Patricia Anne McCoy Adam Whitney Schexnayder PRESERVATION: Maria Elena Gonzales Rachel Meissner Kyle Setliff Scott Haag** Christine M. Gonzalez Jane W. Miller Jim Skinner Mary Bauerlein Allen Glenn H. Griffin Kendra Miller Rob Smith Amanda Marie Anding Hannah Elizabeth Groggett Valin Woodward Miller Cody Michael Stewart Matt Prather Anding Sarah Hammond Adrienne Morgan David Vernon Strauss Brad Bechtol David Joseph Heefner Kathy L. Nichols Dan Tharp J. Chris Bischoff Marilyn J. Henderson Daniel Reece Orr Thor Thornhill Michael Blahnik Lisa Michelle Heymann Nancy S. Pappas Kandace Kennedy Tornquist Robert Lansing Blythin Tyler Hoffmann Annalisa Peace Michael Turpin Britin Bostick Yvonne Elaine Hoffmann Melinda Koester Poss Cheryl Kay Vinsonhaler Tricia Boucher Kristina Jacobs John Ross Powell Karen Goff Boyd
** Envision New Braunfels Steering Committee
viii | Mary Powell Brad Bechtol Janet Hahn Jennifer Michelle Parker Lee W. Rahe Thomas Ferrell Blagg Sarah Hammond Annalisa Peace Martha Rehler Tricia Boucher Matthew R. Harrison Kathleen Perales Rick Reitz Karen Goff Boyd James Heinbaugh Mary Helen Phillips Kathleen Barrett Rockwood Dane Boyle Lawrence Jackson Donna Rice Kelly Annette Rotzler Brannon Brooke Scott Jackson Chris Sandahl Kelly Diane Sadler Amber Brown Kathleen W. Jaroszewski James Henry Scheele Ellen M. Salyers Adam Edward Bruchas Michael Jaroszewski Kama Scheffel Kama Scheffel Austin L. Buck Michael S. Jaroszewski Shawn Schorn Andrea “Tody” D. Sindelar Sandra Harley Carey Robin Michelle Jeffers Christine Marie Seidel Mason Standley Gene Challenner Jan Kingsbury Michael G. Short Kelsi M. Stotts Rob Clark Crystal Kinman Jim Skinner Cathy C. Talcott Richard Cook Barbara Lackey Michael Smetanka Austin Bates Talley John Cotellesse Patrick Lackey Micaeli Klein Smith Dan Tharp Susan Cotellesse Rahe W. Lee Austin Bates Talley Michelle Domier Thomas Douglas Burnette Cottle Courtney Lyons-Garcia Michelle Domier Thomas Michael Turpin David J. Davenport Shelly Malatek Helena Torravala Jaden Mykol Florencio Urdiales John Douglas Davis Maureen Mayo Lee Towns Brad Wehring Ashley Scott Davison Michael Meyer Ardyn Tubb Elaine Weichsel Michael (Mickey) Douglas Jane W. Miller Creighton Tubb Patrick T. Winn Arlynn Ellis Adrienne Morgan Jackson Tubb David Wolters Laura Robledo Etter William Morgan Leo M. Villarreal Judy Young Peggy Potthoff Ford Scott Morris Kyle Turner Weidenfeller Ted Zimmerhanzel Antoinette (Toni) Fournet Kathy L. Nichols Ben Wolfe Terrence Michael Frost Sandy J. Nolte David Wolters PARKS, RECREATION Maria Elena Gonzales Lynn Norvell Deedy Wright AND OPEN SPACE: Cutter Wayne Gonzalez Donna Pacheco Judy Young Andrew Kim** Jerry Goode Donna Pacheco
** Envision New Braunfels Steering Committee
ix PLAN ELEMENT ADVISORY GROUPS
ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS: Jason Leach Joyce A. Yannuzzi Jan Kingsbury Mike Meek** Roy Neal Linnartz Stephen Craig Zgabay Richard D. LaRochelle Coby Bernhard Baese James E. Mahan Don Austin Kio D. Legler Troy Bearden John Manthey Curt Leonhardt James Blakey Leticia Pena Martinez TOURISM: Nathan Daniel Manlove Rusty Brockman Nikki Jean McDaniel Stuart Hansmann** Angie D. Martinez Brannon Brooke Terry W. Mechler Amanda Marie Anding Joe Miller Denise Brown Jose Uribe Michel Joe Behl Kendra Miller Stephen Brown Matt Morse James Blakey Valin Woodward Miller Darin Conkright Jan Kotylo Morton Britin Bostick Alex Ozuna Donald Walter Cooper Jeffrey Organ Austen Grant Brown Kathleen Perales John Cotellesse Sandy Payson Denise Brown Martha Rehler Michael Dietert James B. Poage Stephen Brown Marc Rhodes Larry Dobbins Rusty G. Rice Jen Crownover Donna Rice Laura DuPont Johnny Ryan Rodriguez Brandon F. Dietert Christine Marie Seidel Dani Fuselier Natalie Connors Rougeux Michael Dietert Christina Priscilla Smith Shaun David Gibson Kelly Diane Sadler Jim Flynn Dan Tharp Glenn H. Griffin James Scardami Peggy Potthoff Ford Helena Torralva Jaclyn Hall Adam Whitney Schexnayder Antoinette (Toni) Fournet Lee Towns Larry Hammonds Kyle Setliff Michael Fredrickson Sasha Velarde Matthew R. Harrison Jim Skinner Sabrina Andrea Fumagalli Shane Wolf Clayten Hearrell Rob Smith Will Taylor Henry Ben Wolfe David Joseph Heefner Jerry Turner Tyler Hoffmann Judy Young Will Taylor Henry Michael Turpin Debra Howell Stephen Craig Zgabay Shane Hines Allen Ray White Scott Jackson Matthew Hoyt Ralph H. Wiesepape Kristina Jacobs TRANSPORTATION: Chester Jenke Julie Willeke Michael S. Jaroszewski Jack Shanafelt** Richard D. LaRochelle Ben Wolfe Bryan Kastleman Gregory Gerard Brandt
** Envision New Braunfels Steering Committee
x | Arthur A. Brinkkoeter Mary Bauerlein Allen Kandace Kennedy Tornquist Ralph H. Wiesepape David Brown J. Chris Bischoff Michael Uchniat Don Austin Austin L. Buck Harry Toulmin Bowers Christopher Damon Weeks Richard Nicholas Beach William Gerard Courtney Jen Crownover Julie Willeke Robert Lansing Blythin Thomas Marvin Daum Rob Clark Shane Wolf Connie Born Ashley Scott Davison Carola M. Davis Timothy Dean Word Donald Walter Cooper J. Lee Deardorff Frank H. Dietz Joyce A. Yannuzzi La Cerda, Rosa Linda D Larry Dobbins Brandon F. Dietert Stephen Craig Zgabay J. Lee Deardorff Elroy J. Friesenhahn Cutter Wayne Gonzalez Christine (Chris) Douglas Jaclyn Hall Mark Hampton FACILITIES, SERVICES AND D. Lee Edwards Terri Hall Stephen Wade Hanz CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS: Cynthia Foster Michael Herman Hansen Charlie Jacobs Ron Reaves** Elroy J. Friesenhahn Debra Howell Alice Reeves Jewell Pat Allen Christine M. Gonzalez Matthew Hoyt Misti Marie Johnson John Archer Bob Gray Jeff Jewell Ray A. Kappel J. Chris Bischoff Amy Gusman Michael Peter Lehmann Patrick Lackey Edward Bruce Cambell Janet Hahn Roy Neal Linnartz John R. Mannino Richard Cook Jaclyn Hall Terry W Mechler Gerald E. McLeod Jr. Gerald (Jerry) David Everett Sherry G. Harrison Scott Nowack Rachel Meissner Raymond Franck Melissa Hearrell Donna Pacheco Garry Don Montgomery Kathleen Thea Jackson Caisey Hoffman Patrick Edwin Pence Jeffrey Organ Alice Reeves Jewell Charlie Jacobs Ian Perez Daniel Reece Orr Stanley Laskowski Kendra Jacobs Michel Schadt Scott Roots Thad Miner Kathleen W. Jaroszewski Shawn Schorn Kelly Annette Rotzler Johnny Ryan Rodriguez Michael S. Jaroszewski Michael G. Short James Scardami Ellen M. Salyers Misti Marie Johnson Lynna Sullivan Adam Whitney Schexnayder Nancy Serebrenik Kio D. Legler Kathy Walker Greg Swoboda Sue Dwelle Waters Deborah Lewis Keith W. Wooley Michelle Domier Thomas Christopher Damon Weeks Leticia Pena Martinez
** Envision New Braunfels Steering Committee
xi PLAN ELEMENT ADVISORY GROUPS
Nikki Jean McDaniel Ashton Lynn Dicke Joe Miller Gerald E. McLeod, Jr. Christine (Chris) Douglas Kendra Miller NATURAL RESOURCES AND Jan Kotylo Morton Arlynn Ellis Serena Vela Morris INFRASTRUCTURE: Nancy S. Pappas Laura Robledo Etter Matt Morse Atanacio Campos** Ian Perez Kristen W. Fain Ashley Murphy Scott Haag** Gretchen Reuwer Stephanie Ferguson Patricia Marie Nieto Mary Bauerlein Allen Kama Scheffel Peggy Potthoff Ford Scott Nowack Pat Allen Michael G. Short Cynthia Foster Jennifer Michelle Parker Matt Prather Anding Micaeli Klein Smith Sabrina Andrea Fumagalli Marie Payne John Archer Greg Swoboda Dani Fuselier Kathleen Perales Richard Nicholas Beach Brad Wehring John Austin Garcia Penny Pereboom Brad Bechtol Keith W. Wooley Shaun David Gibson Mary Helen Phillips Roger R. Biggers Stephen Craig Zgabay Amy Gusman Belinda Raindl Arthur A. Brinkkoeter Ted Zimmerhanze Janet Hahn Awilda I. Ramos Rusty Brockman Sherry G. Harrison Gretchen Reuwer Edward Bruce Cambell Sandra Harley Carey EDUCATION AND YOUTH: David Estes Hartz Kathleen Barrett Rockwood Rob Clark Andrew Kim** David Joseph Heefner Natalie Connors Rougeux Randall Collier Randy Moczygemba** Norma C. Herrera Chris Sandahl Richard Cook Harry Bowers Lisa Michelle Heymann Michel Schadt John Douglas Davis James Blakey Kathleen Thea Jackson Shawn Schorn La Cerda, Rosa Linda D John Archer Robin Michelle Jeffers Christine Marie Seidel Frank H. Dietz James Blake II Chester Jenke Nancy Serebrenik Laura DuPont Connie Born David Kneuper Micaeli Klein Smith D. Lee Edwards IV, Harry Toulmin Bower Amy Frances Birchill Lavergne Rob Smith Michael Edward Fogerty Rusty Brockman Jason Leach Jaelyn Rae Tracy Nancy Ford Amber Brown Shelly Malatek Leo M. Villareal Cutter Wayne Gonzalez Travis Brown Shannon Marek Kathy Walker Bob Gray Susan M. Cotellesse Leticia Pena Martinez Allen Ray White Jaclyn Hall Sarah Olivia Currie Jose Uribe Michel Judy Young
** Envision New Braunfels Steering Committee
xii | Sarah Hammond Melinda Koester Poss SUPPORTING CITY DEPARTMENTS Mark Hampton Gretchen Reuwer Airport Stephen Wade Hanz Kathleen Barrett Rockwood Office of the City Attorney David Walter Hartmann Johnny Ryan Rodriguez Office of the City Manager Caisey Hoffman Ellen M. Salyers City Secretary Tyler Hoffmann James Scardami Finance Yvonne Elaine Hoffmann James Henry Scheele Fire Lawrence Jackson Cody Michael Stewart Human Resources Scott Jackson Greg Swoboda Information Technology Charlie Jacobs Lee Towns Library Misti Marie Johnson Michael Uchniat Municipal Court Crystal Kinman Ronald Joseph Walton Parks & Recreation Earl J. Koester Christopher Damon Weeks Planning & Community Development Barbara Lackey Timothy Dean Word Police Michael (Mickey) Douglas Lee Deedy Wright Public Works Mark List Stephen Craig Zgabay Courtney Lyons-Garcia CONSULTANT TEAM Nikki Jean McDaniel Principal, Claire Hempel, AICP CUD - Design Workshop Marilyn Jane McFarland Project Manager, Emily Risinger - Design Workshop Jr., Gerald E. McLeo Planner, Mikey Goralnik - Design Workshop Jose Uribe Michel Planner, Chris Perkes - Design Workshop Valin Woodward Miller Planner, Toni Toscano - Design Workshop Garry Don Montgomery Project Assistant, Kenita Hood - Design Workshop Adrienne Morgan Lead Planner, Rebecca Leonard, FAICP - Lionheart Places Scott Morris Engineer, Brian Rice - Binkley and Barfield Nancy S. Pappas Engineer, Brittany Johs-Gori - Binkley and Barfield Annalisa Peace Sean Garretson, AICP - Pegasus James B. Poage Jillian Anderson - Pegasus Michael Svetz - PROS Consulting
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INTRODUCTION ENVISION NEW BRAUNFELS 4 RECENT INITIATIVES 8 PLAN ELEMENTS 10 COMMUNITY OUTREACH 12 ADVISORY GROUPS AND STEERING COMMITTEE 14 VISION AND GOALS 28 IMPLEMENTATION ROADMAP 30 STRATEGIES 31
1 HISTORY
For centuries, the cool, fresh spring water of the Texas Hill Country has On March 13, 1845, Prince Carl of Solms-Braunfels, Germany entered into drawn people to New Braunfels. Native Americans inhabited the area for an agreement with Maria Antonio Garza and her husband Rafael E. Garza thousands of years before the arrival of Europeans. Tribes known to have for 1,265 acres of the Veramendi land grant for a sum of $1,111. A wagon of called this area home include the Waco and Tonkawa people, who were German immigrants arrived on Good Friday, March 21, 1845. Prince Solms known to be prolific semi-nomadic traders. The Lipan Apaches, who were and his engineer, Nicholas Zink, selected a town site. The original town had much more warrior-like and nomadic, often crossed the area. an open square with narrow streets laid out at right angles. This urban plan design, popular in German scholarship of the 19th century, ensured that the Spanish explorers arrived in the region in the 1600s and developed the El new town’s 342 lots, each with narrow street frontage, remained compact Camino Real trail following well-established Native American trade and and defensible while accessible. This compact urban form sets New travel routes. The El Camino Real (today a National Historic Trail) crossed the Braunfels apart from other Texas towns and is still evident today. Guadalupe River at the present location of the Faust Street Bridge. It was used as a route for supplies and personnel connecting the Spanish Missions Within the town’s center and along the banks of the flowing Comal River, being established in Texas. manufacturing and industry flourished. Newcomers produced essential goods for pioneers settling throughout the Texas Hill Country, such as The expedition of Domingo Teŕan de los Rios of 1691 followed the El wagons, farming tools, leather, furniture, cotton, wool, grain and, in later Camino Real. Subsequent French and Spanish expeditions, including those years, electricity. Churches provided educational classes and facilities that of the Marqués de Aguayao and Louis Juchereau de St. Denis, commonly would later become the city’s school district. By 1850, New Braunfels was passed through this area. In 1825, a Mexican land grant bestowed land the fourth largest city in Texas (part of the United States of America by this surrounding the springs to Juan M. Veramendi. During the 18th century, time), following Houston, Galveston and San Antonio. the springs and river (which had been called Las Fontanas and the Little Guadalupe respectively) took the name Comal (Spanish for “flat dish”), and New Braunfels’ role as a regional industrial hub made it an important part Guadalupe. Much of the western portion of present-day New Braunfels is of the Confederate effort during the Civil War, and provided the community within the Veramendi grant, while much of the eastern portion of the City with access to significant infrastructure investments such as telegraph and lies within the A. M. Esnaurrizar grant. rail lines in the postwar era. In 1912, New Braunfels’ population was 3,165; less than 20 years later, it had doubled to 6,242. However, the boll weevil 1836 saw the formation of the Republic of Texas after years of bloody infestation during the 1920s decimated the community’s cotton crop, a battles with the Mexican Government who laid claim to this territory. To major driver of the economy at the time. Coupled with the Great Depression, pay off war debt and weaken political ties with Mexico, the new nation this calamity greatly curtailed New Braunfels’ growth. The many needs of of Texas began offering public land to Americans and Europeans. This the World War II effort helped regenerate New Braunfels’ economy, and offer, in conjunction with political unrest in Europe, enticed a group of by the middle of the 20th century, New Braunfels’ population had again German noblemen to form an immigration company named Adelsverein. doubled from its pre-Depression numbers. The construction of Canyon Germans began migrating to the Republic of Texas during this time. Their Lake during the 1960s, and the completion of Interstate Highway 35 in the journeys were long and arduous sailing across the Atlantic and into the decades after World War II, launched New Braunfels’ river tubing industry. Gulf of Mexico, then making their way from the Texas coast, up into the Hill Country. Many were skilled tradesmen and farmers who were being Visitors travel to New Braunfels from far and wide to vacation and tube pushed out of Europe by mechanization and crop failures, in addition to the along the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers, and enjoy the town’s many heritage aforementioned unrest (City of New Braunfels, 2016). festivals—such as Wurstfest (German “Salute to Sausage”)—that celebrate the diverse history and cultures of founding residents.
2 | Introduction “The land is so wonderfully situated: nothing better could be wished for: and much more beautiful than could be described.”
– Nicholas and Anton Riedel, letter, April 30, 1845
3 ENVISION NEW BRAUNFELS
Envision New Braunfels as officially adopted by the Planning Commission and City Council, is a comprehensive plan that establishes a vision and framework for the future of New Braunfels. Created through public dialogue and review, it reflects the vision and desires of New Braunfels residents. This is the fourth Comprehensive Plan New Braunfels has undertaken in 54 years. Plans were adopted in 1964, 1977 and 1999.
Envision New Braunfels continues the history of community-driven, long range planning efforts to ensure the quality of life is maintained amidst the tremendous growth. It guides and influences the following types of decisions. • It provides an evaluation framework for land development applications submitted to the City on an ongoing basis. • It provides an action plan for revisions to the Code of Ordinances and official Zoning Map, which are the regulatory tools by which the City implements Envision New Braunfels. • It provides a context by which New Braunfels can make capital investment decisions. • It establishes priorities for more detailed plans for specific areas of New Braunfels (sub area plans) and for detailed topical plans (such as parks and open spaces, trails and roads).
WHAT IS A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN? A comprehensive plan is a long-range “guidebook” for a community’s growth. In addition to setting out policies and direction for the land uses, development, redevelopment and the protection of land, a comprehensive plan sets forth goals for the social, economic and natural environment of New Braunfels.
WHAT ISN’T A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN? A comprehensive plan is general in nature, and typically does not make specific recommendations. It is long term in horizon, although its statements and goals can inform short-term actions and other plans. A comprehensive plan is not overly restrictive and serves as the vision for the future of the community. It is not a “how-to-guide” for the city, but a declaration of values.
4 | Introduction WHO IS AFFECTED BY A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN? In Texas, comprehensive plans are advisory only. This plan represents the vision and goals of the people of New Braunfels. The degree to which this plan is followed will in large part determine the degree to which the stated vision and goals will be met. Relevant provisions of Envision New Braunfels should be used to guide decisions regarding land use, the environment, the economy, transportation, housing, or any other topic of potential impact to the quality of life enjoyed by the people of New Braunfels. Landowners, developers, public agencies, appointed and/or elected officials should recognize the significance of this plan and the implementation tools it contains.
HOW DO I FIND OUT ABOUT REQUIREMENTS AFFECTING MY LAND? The Envision New Braunfels Future Land Use Plan provides helpful information. You should also refer to the current New Braunfels Code of Ordinances for specific standards that apply to all properties. City planners are available should you have any questions. Envision New Braunfels is available for viewing at envisionnewbraunfels.org.
Need additional help? Contact the Planning and Community Development Department if you have a general inquiry about this plan, are unsure what policies apply to your land, or would like to know how this plan may be changed. The American Planning Association website (www.planning.org) is another helpful resource for planning information.
5 PLANNING AREA The planning area for Envision New Braunfels is the corporate limits of the City of New Braunfels and its extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) in unincorporated Guadalupe and Comal counties. When implemented, the plan will also inform planning efforts of the Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (AAMPO) and other regional agencies. While Envision New Braunfels is a planning document with citywide implications, it does not alter existing neighborhood plans, or any other community land use plan. Rather, Envision New Braunfels provides big picture direction for implementing strategies for growth in future places throughout the city.
REGIONAL CONTEXT New Braunfels is strategically located in the Central Texas region, part of the Texas Triangle mega region, and is a city of regional significance, with a growing number of residents and jobs, a tourist mecca and an exceptional quality of life. Centered between Austin (the State Capital) and San Antonio (the home of the Alamo), each year “more than three million visitors come to explore the shopping and recreational activities steeped in German and Hispanic culture and heritage” (New Braunfels 2017 Demographic Profile). Comal County and New Braunfels are “ranked as the ninth fastest-growing county and second fastest-growing city in the nation [and] are experiencing an unprecedented growth rate—growing at an average of 4-5 percent per year, or a 77 percent increase in the last decade.” (New Braunfels 2017 Demographic Profile)
Located 30 miles from downtown San Antonio and 45 miles from downtown Austin, New Braunfels is easily accessible by Interstate Highway 35. Loop 337 circles the city’s center and connects Interstate 35 at the north and south. Conveniently located within a four-hour drive of larger cities such as Houston, Corpus Christi, Fort Worth and Dallas, New Braunfels is also just a three-hour flight to international trade centers in Mexico, Central and South America. New Braunfels is an increasingly popular place for residents, businesses and employers.
The historic downtown is surrounded by predominantly single-family home neighborhoods connected by parks, recreational spaces, scenic waterways and cultural institutions and served by ecotourism, health care, schools, jobs and industries along the Union Pacific railroad which hosts 36 daily freight trains. (New Braunfels 2017 Demographic Profile)
6 | Introduction 73 26 Legend FM ° 9 15 2 New Braunfels City Limits 3 2 M 7 F F 2 D R ETJ M F M 3 M R M F 9 1 F E 7 Bulverde 1 T 6 9 N 2 1 U 1
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Map created 10/26/2016 New Braunfels 0 1.75 3.5 7 Miles 3.5 Mile Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ)
7 RECENT INITIATIVES
There have been several planning initiatives in the last 10 years that have recognized New Braunfels’ growth. These initiatives have led, in part, to the shape and built forms of New Braunfels today, and that will continue to shape the city’s future through 2030. The city’s amenities, proximity and key roadways solidify its standing as a growing center between Austin and San Antonio.
TRANSPORTATION: New Braunfels is accessible by Interstate Highway 35 and by Greyhound bus, which provides seven northbound and six southbound routes daily (New Braunfels Economic Development Council 2016). The City of New Braunfels 2012 Regional Transportation Plan was coordinated with the City of Seguin, the counties of Comal and Guadalupe, the Texas Department of Transportation and the Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization. Though the Lone Star Rail District project was exploring possibilities for an intercity passenger rail service (LSTAR), the project’s environmental clearance process has been temporarily suspended (Lone Star Rail District 2017).
COMMUNITY GROWTH: In 2013, the Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization Mobility 2040 Plan (AAMPO Mobility Plan) identified New Braunfels as one of 34 activity centers in the region in which future transportation investments will support growth. This suggests New Braunfels’ growth offers opportunities to collaborate with other municipalities to plan for and enhance the larger region. Within New Braunfels itself, three sub-regional attractions—New Braunfels Center, New Braunfels Retail and Schlitterbahn Water Park—were also noted in the AAMPO Mobility Plan as areas needing interconnectivity to other cities by highway and public transportation. As New Braunfels continues to grow, new centers of activity may emerge, and efforts to retain the existing form and character will remain important. The 2,400-acre Veramendi project, approved in 2015, is adjacent to the city limits and will be annexed over time. Once completed, this project will add 5,000 new dwellings (housing 12,000 to 15,000 people), 480 acres of parkland, several schools in New Braunfels ISD, a branch of Howard Payne University, and tens of thousands of square feet of retail and office (The Dallas Morning News 2016). This is just one example of a recent effort but there are numerous initiatives taking place to harness new opportunities brought about by growth in the county and city. Photo courtesy of Annie Theresa Looney
8 | Introduction ADDITIONAL INITIATIVES
• Downtown Implementation Plan ENVIRONMENT: • Main Street Program The New Braunfels Parks and Recreation Strategic Master Plan represents the vision for • Parks and Recreation Master Plan Update the parks system. It is a document that will aid City staff and decision-makers in providing recreational opportunities to the citizens of New Braunfels and in preserving open space • Das Rec, New Braunfels Recreation Center areas. In 2012, the Edwards Aquifer Recovery Implementation Program (EARIP) developed a • Landa Park and Arboretum Master Plan Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) for the protection of the endangered species in the Comal • Market Plaza Master Plan and San Marcos Springs and Rivers. This plan recommends a range of habitat protection and • Mission Hill Park Master Plan flow protection projects, including the removal of non-native vegetation, restoration of native • Callen’s Castle All Abilities Park Master Plan habitat, and limited channel modification in both the Comal and San Marcos Rivers. The Edwards Aquifer Recovery Implementation Program also addresses water conservation from • Veterans Memorial Park Master Plan the Edwards Aquifer for the five-county aquifer region. • Economic Development Strategic Plan Update • NBU Aquifer Storage and Recovery Project In 2014, New Braunfels established a Stormwater Management Program, which details • SH 130 Southern Connection project New Braunfels’ approach to protecting water quality. In addition to identifying the best management practices necessary to reduce the discharge of pollutants into its waters, the • Comal River Bridge rehabilitation project program also provides an implementation schedule. Many of these concepts— preserving • Street Improvement Program native habitats, enhancing water quality and restoring riparian ecologies—will be on display • Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP) at the Headwaters at the Comal environmental education center, located at a former New • Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) Braunfels Utilities site. Elsewhere in New Braunfels, the park and open space amenities • Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) such as the Veramendi project are designed to improve water quality and manage on-site stormwater infiltration at the 2,400-acre community. • AAMPO Bike and Pedestrian Study • Library Master Plan ECONOMY: • Historic Preservation Plan for Municipal In 2010, City Council approved the Downtown Implementation Plan, which serves as Cemeteries a roadmap for the City, development community, and stakeholders to spur economic • Comprehensive Facilities Master Plan development and direct public revitalization projects in Downtown New Braunfels. Also, • Athletic Field Master Plan and Sports Complex the New Braunfels 2012 Economic Development Strategic Plan explored the community’s • River Properties Master Plan success and goals for topics such as real estate development, entrepreneurship and small business development. Tourism, cultural and recreational development and workforce • Watershed Protection Plan development are also addressed. • Habitat Conservation Plan • South Castell Avenue Visioning Plan The City has adopted an Economic Development Strategic Plan (2017-21) which identifies • Broadband Initiative five goals. They center on the topics of workforce housing, quality of place, entrepreneurship, regional transit and real estate development.
9 PLAN ELEMENTS
The plan elements listed below were the primary categories chosen by the residents of New Braunfels. Each plan element was led by a Plan Element Advisory Group made up of community members. The Plan Element Advisory Groups wrote the comprehensive plan, driven by public input and community feedback.
GROWTH AND FUTURE LAND USE This plan element includes the Future Land Use Map and topics related to population, demographics, land use patterns to accommodate growth and encourage reinvestment, walkable mixed use neighborhoods, housing, annexation, and ETJ policies.
URBAN DESIGN AND CULTURAL, HERITAGE AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION This plan element relates to New Braunfels’ urban form, the built environment and its impact on public health, architectural design, the arts and public art, and historic preservation.
PARKS, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE This plan element addresses the preservation of natural resources, improving the health and wellness of the community and providing balanced access to public parks and programs.
ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS This plan element focuses on the creation or update of goals and policies to establish a coordinated approach to economic development to ensure the community is well positioned to attract workers and businesses, and to retain and sustain existing businesses.
10 | Introduction TOURISM This plan element involves capitalizing on the positive impacts of tourism on the community, including the economy, and the special sense of place it engenders, as well as goals and policies that address tourism’s impacts on infrastructure, public safety and the environment.
TRANSPORTATION This plan element addresses the city’s transportation network, the transportation/land use relationship, and how it connects and interacts with the region; all modes will be addressed, from walking to air travel.
FACILITIES, SERVICES AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS This plan element is concerned with the provision and location of public facilities and services including police, fire, emergency services, community safety and security, libraries, government buildings, community service centers for all generations, and sustainable solid waste and recycling goals.
EDUCATION AND YOUTH This plan element emphasizes the needs of the city’s youth, from education and health to social activities and childcare. Education input will guide goals and policies for school locations, preparing youth to become responsible citizens, and identifying technical vocational training and higher education needs, as well as the educational and social needs of all generations in the community.
NATURAL RESOURCES AND INFRASTRUCTURE This plan element focuses on addressing land use compatibility with environmentally sensitive areas and features, conservation of natural resources, stormwater conveyance including Low Impact Development (LID), and utility infrastructure.
11 COMMUNITY OUTREACH
HOW COMMUNITY INPUT SHAPED ENVISION NEW BRAUNFELS The process informed, involved and empowered stakeholders. Outreach engaged a total of 10,068 total participants with 1,436 written comments with input and feedback about the plan.
INFORMED INVOLVED EMPOWERED
8,176 1,436 37 707 16 participants written comments city-wide community plan element advisory steering committee engaged online from citizens input events group volunteers meetings
1,234 7 2 participants external events with Planning Commission engaged on plan element advisory and City Council social media group participation presentations
50+ news articles
12 | Introduction ENVISIONNEWBRAUNFELS.ORG A website served as the portal for public information relating to Envision New Braunfels. Visitors could learn about progress and events, find meeting materials, and information about related planning efforts, and provide input.
FACEBOOK.COM/NBCOMPPLAN A Facebook page was established to create an opportunity to share ideas, discuss issues, and as an additional avenue for advertising events. Followers read about everything from innovative zoning to population and demographic data to historic preservation.
13 ADVISORY GROUPS AND STEERING COMMITTEE
Plan Element Advisory Groups and Steering Committee both worked together in the creation of a recommended plan. The Steering Committee consisted of ambassadors from each of the following as approved by City Council: • City of New Braunfels Planning Commission; • Comal County Commissioner’s Court; • Guadalupe County Commissioner’s Court; • New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce; • New Braunfels Independent School District; • Comal Independent School District; • New Braunfels Economic Development Corporation (4B Board); • New Braunfels Utilities; and • New Braunfels City Council. STEERING The Steering Committee: COMMITTEE • Monitored progress; • Reviewed the work of Plan Element Advisory Groups; • Reviewed community dialogue formats and outcomes; and • Made recommendations to the Planning Commission and City Council.
Plan Element Advisory Groups created a “roadmap for the future.” They met before the second, third and fourth community workshops to: • Create content for the plan; • Review public input; and • Provide recommendations to the Steering Committee.
14 | Introduction COMMUNITY DIALOGUES A Strategic Kick-Off meeting and site tour was hosted in the fall of 2016 to inform all team members of the purpose, goals, and organization of the project.
DIALOGUE 1: DIALOGUE 2: PLAN ELEMENT DIALOGUE 3: DIALOGUE 4: FALL 2016 SPRING 2017 ADVISORY GROUPS: FALL 2017 SPRING 2018 SUMMER 2017 VISIONING GOALS GOALS KEY FINDINGS ACTIONS
Introduced process. Created goals. Further refined goals Shared future Reviewed and Shared aspirations. Began brainstorming and strategies with each land use scenarios. commented on a Drafted a vision strategies and mapped advisory group. Refined strategies, preferred growth scenario statement. future growth scenarios. projects, policies, and and land use plan. programs that achieve the vision.
15 DIALOGUE 1: VISIONING WORKSHOP NOVEMBER 29, 2016
At the Visioning Workshop held November 29, 2016, more than 230 community and Plan Element Advisory Group members gathered for the first Visioning Workshop of Envision New Braunfels.
The dialogue featured activities that introduced the effort, explored strengths and opportunities, and collected input on the community’s vision for the project.
Activities included:
• Presentation of the Envision New Braunfels timeline and process;
• A welcome during which each person filled out a “vision sticker” with their name and greatest desire for the plan (in three words or less);
• “My neighborhood” sticky dot mapping;
• Keypad polling that quilzed participants’ knowledge of comprehensive planning;
• “About me” icebreaker which introduced Plan Element Advisory Groups, community members and Steering Committee liaisons to each other;
• Strengths and opportunities sticky note exercise; and
• An online survey to gather feedback on a vision, strengths and opportunities for each Plan Element.
16 | Introduction CHAMBER BOARD JANUARY 16, 2017
At a Chamber Board of Directors meeting, Ron Reaves presented on the status and outlook for Envision New Braunfels and how the city-wide effort would develop a vision and ‘roadmap’ for New Braunfels’ future through 2030.
CISD STUDENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE JANUARY 24, 2017
At a meeting of the Comal Independent School District Student Advisory Committee, Planning and Community Development Director Christopher Looney engaged local high school students in an interactive dialogue about Envision New Braunfels. Assisted by Texas State University interns Emilio Levario and Katherine Crowe, the students learned about careers, comprehensive planning and Envision New Braunfels. This event provided students with an opportunity to put their real-world planning skills to the test! Teens worked together to prepare land use maps illustrating future visions. Then, each student team shared their vision and land use strategies with the group.
17 CITY UNIVERSITY FEBRUARY 2, 2017
City University is a program that provides the citizens of New Braunfels the opportunity to receive an in depth education about the services and operations provided by the City. The participants graduate with a greater understanding of municipal operations through an interactive learning experience. On Thursday evening, February 2, the Planning and Community Development Department provided an overview of their department, services provided and current projects. Students learned about Envision New Braunfels and even had the opportunity to provide input directly into the planning effort.
KIWANIS CLUB FEBRUARY 2, 2017
Over a lunch meeting, Kiwanis members heard an update on population growth and development in New Braunfels, and received a personal overview of the Envision New Braunfels effort. Attendees learned of the innovative opportunities to provide input into the plan, and inquired and provided input about a variety of growth related topics including regional growth centers that can accommodate live, work and play in a concentrated area. Attendees were also invited to attend the next community-wide workshop to help their fellow residents craft long-range goals.
18 | Introduction DOWNTOWN ROTARY CLUB FEBRUARY 23, 2017
On Thursday, February 23, members of the Downtown Rotary Club heard a presentation on community growth and Envision New Braunfels. Over a lunch meeting, Downtown Rotary members were provided information on population and development growth in and surrounding New Braunfels, and received an overview of the Envision New Braunfels plan process. Attendees learned about innovative opportunities to provide input into the plan, the qualities of the process that make it community-driven, and inquired and provided input on a variety of growth related topics including annexation, ETJ and thoroughfare planning. Attendees were also invited to attend the next community-wide workshop to help their fellow residents craft long-range goals.
19 DIALOGUE 2: GOALS WORKSHOP MARCH 6, 2017
This community-wide event was held at the New Braunfels Civic/Convention Center at 375 S. Castell Avenue. The event focused on goal setting for the plan.
Nine Plan Element Advisory Groups, made up of approximately 300 interested citizens, residents, property owners and other stakeholders, with more being added daily, participated in the event. Working groups focused on drafting goals, that built upon the strengths and weaknesses identified in the first Visioning Workshop held on November 29, 2016.
The March 6 workshop was held in two segments: the Economic Competitiveness; Facilities, Services and Capital Improvements; and Transportation groups met at 4:00 p.m., while the Natural Resources and Infrastructure; Tourism; and Urban Design, Cultural, Heritage and Historic Preservation groups met at 6:30 p.m. The Education and Youth, Growth and Future Land Use, and Parks and Recreation groups met at both times. The aim of this approach was to provide as much time as possible for each Plan Element Advisory Group, and to provide options for participants to work on multiple groups.
The Plan Element Advisory Groups conducted an inventory of the 2006 Comprehensive Plan goals. They determined which goals were achieved and identified gaps that Envision New Braunfels could work to complete. Refer to the Technical Report Appendix for a matrix of the reviewed goals.
20 | Introduction MOVIES IN THE PARK MARCH 17, 2017
At a Movies in the Park event at the Landa Park Dance Slab, the City of New Braunfels presented Disney-Pixar’s Cars, a movie about an Interstate Highway bypassing a friendly, small town. Prior to the showing, City Planning Manager Stacy Snell hosted an interactive discussion with kids and families about the Comprehensive Plan. Stacy discussed New Braunfels, town pride, and how residents can participate in the Envision New Braunfels planning effort to express their desires about the future of New Braunfels. As a part of the discussion, Stacy shared an activity sheet with the kids to be included in the Comprehensive Plan. For those that did not get a chance to attend the event, activity sheets were available for download online.
TRANSPORTATION PLAN ELEMENT ADVISORY GROUP JUNE 13, 2017
The Transportation Plan Element Advisory Group met on Tuesday, June 13. The group heard about existing plans and current conditions from City Engineer Garry Ford. Afterwards they reviewed the draft goals coming out of the March 6th workshop as well as from the online poll, and made adjustments and updates.
PARKS AND RECREATION PLAN ELEMENT ADVISORY GROUP JUNE 19, 2017
The Parks and Recreation Plan Element Advisory Group met on Monday, June 19. Jerry Millership, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Member, and Stacey Laird Dicke, the City’s Parks and Recreation Department Director, were on hand to share information about existing conditions and current plans under way. The advisory group worked further on the draft goals coming out of the March 6th workshop as well as from the online poll.
21 FAMILY FUN DAY AT EIKEL PARK JUNE 24, 2017
The Hispanic Business Alliance hosted a Fun Day at Eikle Park on Saturday, June 24 from 10 AM to 1 PM. Comprehensive plan staff attended and discussed the future of New Braunfels with neighbors. A tremendous amount of input was gathered that will further inform the long range goal development. The HBA assists in promoting, advocating, and educating the local Hispanic community as they seek opportunities for success.
ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS PLAN ELEMENT ADVISORY GROUP JUNE 28, 2017
On Wednesday, June 28, the Economic Competitiveness Plan Element Advisory Group met. Mike Meek, President of the New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce, and Jeff Jewell the City’s Economic Development Manager presented information and answered questions regarding current policies and baseline conditions. They also discussed the recently adopted Strategic Plan. The advisory group revised the draft goals coming out of the March 6th workshop as well as from the online poll.
TOURISM PLAN ELEMENT ADVISORY GROUP JULY 6, 2017
On Thursday, July 6, the Tourism Plan Element Advisory Group met. Judy Young and Tyler Hoffmann of the Convention and Visitor’s arm of the New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce shared information and answered questions regarding current programs and baseline conditions. Amy Niles, River Operations Manager, was also on hand to provide info and answer questions. The advisory group discussed the draft goals coming out of the March 6th workshop and online poll, and made some changes and additions.
22 | Introduction FACILITIES, SERVICES AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PLAN ELEMENT ADVISORY GROUP JULY 12, 2017
The Facilities, Services and Capital Improvements Plan Element Advisory Group met on Wednesday, July 12. Assistant City Manager Bryan Woods answered group member questions and provided updates on capital projects underway, as well as progress on future planned projects. The advisory group discussed the draft goals coming out of the March 6th workshop and online poll, and made changes and additions.
NATURAL RESOURCES AND INFRASTRUCTURE PLAN ELEMENT ADVISORY GROUP
AUGUST 2, 2017
The Natural Resources and Infrastructure Plan Element Advisory Group met on August 2. The City’s Watershed Program Manager, Mark Enders, provided an overview of plans and projects, and answered questions from attendees. The advisory group members further developed the draft goals, making improvements and additions.
URBAN DESIGN AND CULTURAL, HERITAGE AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION ADVISORY GROUP AUGUST 9, 2017
The Urban Design and Cultural, Heritage and Historic Preservation Plan Element Advisory Group met on Wednesday, August 9. We heard about existing plans and current conditions from the City’s Historic Preservation Officer, Amy McWhorter. The group spent time updating and further developing the draft goals coming out of the March 6th workshop, online poll and outreach events.
23 GROWTH AND FUTURE LAND USE ADVISORY GROUP AUGUST 31, 2017
On August 31st, the Growth and Future Land Use Plan Element Advisory Group met to update the draft goals. The group heard about existing plans, current conditions, new development concepts, and the difference between zoning and future land use from the City’s Planning and Community Development Director, Christopher Looney. They then discussed population, land use, real estate development, financing, workforce housing, walkability and a plethora of other land use related topics. The group further developed the draft goals coming out of the March 6th workshop, online poll and outreach events.
EDUCATION AND YOUTH PLAN ELEMENT ADVISORY GROUP SEPTEMBER 19, 2017
On Tuesday, September 19, the Education and Youth Plan Element Advisory Group met. Randy Moczygemba, NBISD Superintendent presented information and answered questions regarding current status, plans and enrollment numbers for the district. The advisory group vetted and further developed the draft goals coming out of the March 6th workshop, other public outreach and the online poll.
24 | Introduction DIALOGUE 3: KEY FINDINGS WORKSHOP OCTOBER 30, 2017
The City of New Braunfels and the Envision New Braunfels Steering Committee invited the community to the third workshop for the comprehensive plan update. This event was held at the New Braunfels Civic/Convention Center.
The groups focused on prioritizing the strategies to accomplish the goals that were drafted during the Goals Workshop and further developed over the summer.
The Tourism; Urban Design, Cultural, Heritage and Historic Preservation; and Transportation groups met at 4:00 p.m., while the Economic Competitiveness; Facilities, Services and Capital Improvements; and Natural Resources and Infrastructure groups met at 6:30 p.m. Education and Youth, Growth and Future Land Use, and Parks and Recreation groups met at both times.
DIALOGUE 4: ACTIONS WORKSHOP JANUARY 23, 2018
The City of New Braunfels and the Envision New Braunfels Steering Committee invited the community to the fourth workshop for the comprehensive plan update. This open house style event was held at the New Braunfels Civic/ Convention Center.
At this fourth workshop, the New Braunfels community viewed goals and strategies that resulted from the Vision and Key Findings workshops, and provided feedback on a future growth scenario for the draft plan.
The event was held from 3:30 to 7:30pm.
25 RE/MAX RIVER CITIES OUTREACH FEBRUARY 1, 2018
At an annual meeting of RE/MAX River Cities, Planning and Community Development Director Christopher Looney gave local and area realtors an update on Envision New Braunfels. Attendees of the event at the Civic/Convention Center learned of the innovative input tools that have been employed in the development of the plan, asked questions and gained insight about the community-driven process, and saw some examples of goals, strategies and actions currently being finalized. Attendees were invited to participate through continued engagement by taking the latest online poll regarding growth scenarios, and/or providing direct input to City staff or advisory committee members.
COMAL COUNTY SENIOR CENTER OUTREACH Photo courtesy of RE/MAX River Cities FEBRUARY 16, 2018
Planning and Community Development Director Christopher Looney provided an update on Envision New Braunfels to local members of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees at one of their regular meetings. Held at the Comal County Senior Center, approximately 25 attendees learned about the status of plan development, gained insights into goals the citizens have been providing, and asked questions about the community- driven process and specific planning issues in the community. Attendees were also invited to participate through continued engagement, taking the latest online poll regarding growth scenarios, and/or providing direct input to City staff or advisory committee members.
HISPANIC BUSINESS ALLIANCE BREAKFAST MEETING MARCH 16, 2018
Hispanic Business Alliance members were provided a presentation by the City of New Braunfels in the Envision New Braunfels effort during a breakfast meeting. The event was held at the Chamber of Commerce’s Honors Hall where members heard of the innovation being employed in the new plan, asked questions, and gained insight about the community- driven process. Attendees were invited to participate through continued engagement, including taking the latest online poll regarding growth scenarios.
26 | Introduction CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING APRIL 16, 2018
On Monday, April 16, at a Chamber Board of Directors meeting, City Council Member Ron Reaves and City Planning Director Christopher Looney shared updates on Envision New Braunfels. Envision New Braunfels is an overarching, long range vision born out of broad input from resident. The plan will supersede the previous plan, adopted in 1999 and updated in 2006. To date, Envision New Braunfels has included kickoff, visioning, goals, key findings, actions and scenarios phases. It is currently in the phase in which a document is being finalized. The next step is proofing, then review and approval by the City Planning Commission, then consideration by the City Council.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION APRIL 17, 2018
Councilman Ron Reaves and City Planning Director Christopher Looney provided an update on Envision New Braunfels to the members of the Economic Development Foundation. The event was held at the McKenna Events Center where members heard of the innovation employed in the new plan, asked questions, and gained insight about the community-driven process. Approximately 200 attendees were present to hear about Envision New Braunfels and the Economic Impact of Tourism in our community.
Photo courtesy of the New Braunfels Herald-Zeitung
27 VISION AND GOALS
OUR VISION New Braunfels will remain special by design fostering an unequaled quality of place with a culture of cooperation.
GROWTH AND FUTURE LAND USE GOALS 1: Protect the character, integrity and stability of neighborhoods where families can live. 2: Encourage mixed use centers that allow people to work and play near where they live. 3: Create a clear approach to annexation that allows for strategic and efficient growth.
URBAN DESIGN AND CULTURAL, HERITAGE AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION GOALS 1: Grow and target historic preservation efforts. 2: Increase and improve the understanding, appreciation, and learning of historic and cultural assets. 3: Promote a compact urban fabric that includes walkable streets, mixed use development, and high-quality public spaces. 4: Create new and special destinations and experiences that build on New Braunfels’ historic resources.
PARKS, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE GOALS 1: Increase the proportion of park acres per population through a variety of park type amenities and open space options. 2: Continue to plan, develop and operate a variety of indoor and outdoor facilities that support multiple activities; grow recreation facilities, programs, activities and services in the areas of highest community need. 3: Pursue adequate funding to support existing parks, new parks, and other park types. 4: Provide a park system offering the community a variety of services that integrate environmental design, safety, emerging trends and local culture and history. 5: Invest in infrastructure and services along the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers to ensure safety and guest comfort, as well as to expand activities. 6: Establish connectivity between parks, facilities and greenways so that they are accessible by pedestrians, bicycles and a large majority of neighborhoods.
ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS GOALS 1: Create an environment that incentivizes jobs and live/work/play destinations that leverage regional talent and expands industries. 2: Facilitate the creation of new destinations for lodging, recreation, neighborhood goods and services in underutilized neighborhoods and along corridors. 3: Create policies and programs that attract families and talented residents. 4: Continue to diversify the economy to ensure adaptability and resiliency. 5: Cultivate a free enterprise approach to growing an economy where the public and private sectors collaborate.
28 | Introduction TOURISM GOALS 1: Continue to be a year-round destination in Central Texas, leveraging target markets via attractions and multi-day festivals. 2: Improve existing and create new facilities that encourage tourism and generate revenue through performing arts, conventions, sports events, festivals, and other destination events. 3: Enhance existing resources for tourism. 4: Create connections and ease of access to tourism destinations via multi-modal transportation. 5: Ensure adequate parking for all tourist destinations via public/private partnerships city-wide. 6: Increase arts/cultural/heritage tourism. TRANSPORTATION GOALS 1: Coordinate regional transportation investments with planned and existing economic centers. 2: Improve vehicular connections into and within New Braunfels to reduce congestion while mitigating the impacts of the automobile on the urban fabric. 3: Establish a self-sustaining and improved public transit system. 4: Promote healthy lifestyles and relieve automobile congestion through improved and increased pedestrian paths, on-street bicycle lanes, and off-street bicycle paths to major hubs within New Braunfels and beyond. 5: Increase parking options in high-demand areas of New Braunfels, such as downtown, while ensuring efficient and economical land use strategies. FACILITIES, SERVICES AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS 1: Expand the capacity of existing infrastructure and services. 2: Promote investment in innovative infrastructure that keeps New Braunfels livable and economically competitive. 3: Ensure public facilities and spaces are available, welcoming, and accessible to all residents. 4: Emphasize energy efficiency, resource conservation, and environmental stewardship in public infrastructure investments. 5: Maintain adequate public safety services and facilities to keep pace with population growth. 6. With the City of New Braunfels currently at an ISO rating of 1 for fire protection, maintain that rating of 1 which ensures the safety of all residents and keeps property owner insurance rates low. EDUCATION AND YOUTH 1: Support workforce training and development focused on targeted industries. 2: Foster an environment that encourages youth to want to stay, return and invest in the future of the city. 3: Through collaborative efforts, continue to provide and expand coordinated and comprehensive opportunities and environments to prepare children and their families for early education and their complete education journey. 4: Promote healthy lifestyles for youth through upgraded and new sporting venues, parkland and trails. 5: Provide locations for social opportunities for teens after school/evenings.
NATURAL RESOURCES AND INFRASTRUCTURE 1: Protect natural riparian areas and tree canopies that provide resiliency against flooding or other risks. 2: Implement stormwater best management practices to improve water quality and reduce the demands on engineered stormwater systems. 3: Reduce solid waste through material recycling and reuse. 4: Emphasize energy efficiency and innovation in homes, businesses and equipment. 5: Collaborate with surrounding water providers to preserve, conserve and continue to diversify our water supply. 6: Reduce and control air pollution.
29 IMPLEMENTATION ROADMAP
TION GOALS AC S Goals are broad guiding statements that describe community hopes for the future. A goal is a point RATEGI towards which we strive. ST ES
STRATEGIES Describe what is needed to move the community in the direction of completing its goals. Strategies guide GOALS decisions and future actions.
ACTIONS Specific actions for each strategy may be a project, program, policy, plan, initiative, or community partnership. Actions are listed in the order by which they should be implemented over time.
30 | Introduction Describe what is needed to move the community in the direction of completing its goals. STRATEGIES Strategies guide decisions and future actions.
STRATEGY 1. STRATEGY 5. SUPPORT VIBRANT CENTERS BOLSTER RESILIENT INFRASTRUCTURE
STRATEGY 6. STRATEGY 2. COORDINATE COMMUNITY ACTIVATE NEIGHBORHOODS INVESTMENTS
STRATEGY 3. STRATEGY 7. BALANCE JOBS, EDUCATION AND CONNECT ALL HOUSING CHOICES
STRATEGY 4. STRATEGY 8. INNOVATE IN PARKS CULTIVATE LOCAL AND AND PUBLIC SPACES REGIONAL PARTNERSHIPS
31