Real estate
BY BEN THOMPSON
Sewage line removal proposed over environmental concerns
The removal of an old wastewater pipe along Barton Creek is under consideration this year to address possible contamination from the line and potentially clear the way for more redevelopment around Southwest Austin, including a potential redevelopment of Barton Creek Square. What’s happening The decades-old Barton Creek Wastewater Inter- ceptor is a central piece of a wastewater system also serving West Lake Hills and Rollingwood. Council member Paige Ellis said she wants to see the process move forward given concerns about city sewage running near the creek, and the pipe’s longtime status as a roadblock for modern development in the area. “There’s no excuse to leave aging infrastructure in place and pretend that there’s not a problem,” she said. Ellis pointed to reports of higher E. coli levels and lower water chemistry ratings in Barton Creek
as examples of possible signs of pollution. Wastewater mains near Barton Springs are reg- ularly inspected and no leaks or structural issues were found during recent reviews, according to Austin Water. Additionally, Ellis said several projects in her district have stalled out thanks to the wastewater system hitting its capacity. One of those projects is Barton Creek Square, according to a representative with Simon Property Group, who said the mall’s redevelopment would likely move ahead if new infrastructure is in place. The representatives said the site has "unrealized potential," including modernizing environmental standards and adding other elements such as housing. What’s next Before the city report on the pipe replacement is completed this fall, Austin Water staff will analyze the area wastewater system and capacity needs.
Wastewater pipe
Barton Creek Wastewater Interceptor
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