AUSTIN, Texas — A pilot program in the Red River Cultural District is doing so well, Austin’s Economic Development Department is calling on the City Council to make it permanent.
The Red River Extended Hours Pilot Program gives five outdoor music venues three extra hours a week to play amplified music.
Extended hours are:
- Thursdays until 12 midnight (current end time is 11 p.m.)
- Fridays and Saturdays until 1 a.m. (current end time is midnight)
Ever since the program started back in May, the city’s Music and Entertainment Division has been monitoring sound levels along the downtown street. City employees work in the neighborhood those evenings to better understand and investigate sound concerns along Red River Street.
The Economic Development Department said that compared to same time period a year before, venues are generating greater revenue. Staff and local artists are getting paid more, too. They also found that 311 complaints decreased and there was no link between the pilot and crime.
“A highlight is the improved communication and relationships between the venues and resident, you know, having them coming together and get to understand each other and work together was a real benefit,” said Brian Block, the entertainment services manager for the Economic Development Department.
Block said the live music industry is vital to Austin’s economy and the city wants to preserve it, as well as the quality of life among residents. In addition to amending the city code, the Economic Development Department wants to create an ongoing forum among the venues, residents and other stakeholders.
“[Live music is] at the heart and soul of our community, and there’s a real threat of displacement for music venues, due to affordability and their ability to just remain viable and sustainable,” Block said.
The City Council will vote on the extended hours on April 26.