Mueller Neighborhood Redevelopment

Construction workers redeveloping Mueller neighborhood sidewalk

Revamping a Community: The Mueller Transformation

Two decades ago, the site of the former Robert Mueller Municipal Airport was a vast, underutilized expanse with dreams of a mixed-use community brewing in the minds of visionary developers. Fast forward 20 years, and Mueller is now a bustling neighborhood offering a blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces—an embodiment of what modern city planning aims to achieve.

A Community Over Two Decades

Mueller began its transformation in the early 2000s, spearheaded by the California-based Catellus Development Corporation. It was touted as an ambitious 20-year redevelopment project aimed at creating a neighborhood where residents could live, work, and play—all without the necessity of a car. Fast forward, and as of 2025, the area boasts approximately 14,200 residents with expectations to rise to over 16,000 once all phases are complete. The promise of an eco-friendly and pedestrian-friendly community is finally becoming a reality.

The Heart of Mueller: Vital Amenities

Since its inception, residents have seen a variety of essential spaces emerge—Dell Children's Hospital, interactive spaces like the Thinkery, and a vibrant retail sector along Aldrich Street. With 655,000 square feet of retail presently available, this space is projected to grow to 735,000 square feet, making it a coveted area for local businesses and a gathering place for the community. With the ongoing construction of new buildings, the Mueller delightful vibe continues to attract residents from all over Austin.

Local Character Wins Over National Chains

One of the many achievements of the Mueller project is cultivating a business environment that reflects Austin’s unique culture. Over 77% of the businesses lining Aldrich Street are locally owned, marking a stark contrast against other commercial developments in the area that often lean toward major franchises. Patrons can enjoy homegrown restaurants such as Chuy’s and Kerbey Lane, enhancing the area's sense of community.

Affordable Housing: A Work in Progress

Although Mueller has provisioned for 25% affordable housing, providing homes for individuals earning around 80% of Austin's median income, challenges remain in ensuring long-term affordability. Rising homeowner association fees and general upkeep costs are concerns for residents, particularly for those in affordable units. Still, mechanisms like a 2% appreciation cap on resale maintain the integrity of home prices for future buyers.

Future Developments and Community Feedback

As developers clear the final parcels for construction, community leaders and residents are eager to ensure that Mueller continues to thrive as an inclusive neighborhood. With additional affordable housing developments proposed and community involvement in planning, Mueller aims to address the gaps in density and diverse price points. This includes discussions about implementing “gentle density” solutions throughout Austin, which could pave the way for similar projects across the city.

Insights on Urban Planning from Mueller’s Journey

The Mueller redevelopment serves as a benchmark for future urban planning projects in Austin and beyond. As residents express their desire for more fine-dining establishments and nightlife options, it highlights the importance of creating balanced, vibrant communities. The challenges of developing affordable housing can be daunting, but Mueller's vision and steadily growing infrastructure shine a light on what's possible when a collective community vision comes to life.

As we reflect on the evolution of Mueller over the past 20 years, it’s evident that significant strides have been made in urban development, yet much work lies ahead. Great opportunities persist for residents, local businesses, and even city government to collaborate for a shared future of sustainability, community engagement, and growth.

By understanding the past and looking toward the future, we can embrace the opportunities and challenges that accompany such transformative efforts. Let this serve as an invitation to get involved in the development of your community.