Planners praise PARD’s Brush Square Master Plan

The Parks and Recreation Department’s Brush Square Master Plan has been recognized by the American Planning Association Texas Chapter with a Planning Achievement Award in Urban Design. According to a city press release, “The master plan envisions Brush Square as a unique park for downtown Austin that is distinct yet complementary to other downtown squares and public spaces. Brush Square is one of three remaining historic public squares from the 1839 Waller Plan for the City of Austin and is located in the southeast area of downtown. It is home to the Susanna Dickinson Museum, O. Henry Museum, the Austin Fire Museum, and historic Central Fire Station #1.” PARD Director Kimberly McNeeley thanked the APA for “recognizing the sense of place that the Brush Square Master Plan will create. This important urban square provides space for residents and visitors to learn about Austin’s unique culture and enjoy healthy recreation opportunities.” The award was presented at the APA’s Annual Planning Conference on Friday, Nov. 8, in Waco.