Citing concerns that plans considered for redevelopment of the Seaholm Intake facility do not adequately preserve its historic features, the Austin-American Statesman reports, the city parks department has issued a call for new proposals for the site.
The city held a redesign competition for the building in 2013, but according to the Statesman, preservationists challenged the plans of both finalists: City pick Stratus Properties, developers of Circle C Ranch and the W Hotel and Residences, and Southwest Strategies Group, which the city did contract to redevelop the power plant across the street from the intake facility.
The Historic Landmark Commission recommended last fall that the company chosen to rehabilitate the facility, which is listed the National Register of Historic Places, follow its restoration guidelines.
Throughout the process, a vision of plans for a public entertainment space, gardens, and renovations that connect the lakeside property with the hike-and-bike trail have been a constant, the Statesman reports.