City Council Workshop or Special Called Meeting

CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP MEETING WEDNESDAY - APRIL 10, 2024 - 5:30 PM Notice of AGENDA City Council Chamber/Municipal Courtroom 2801 Ranch Road 1869 Liberty Hill, TX 78642 Crystal Mancilla Chris Pezold Angela Jones Amanda L Young Michael Helbing LIVE VIDEO ACCESS AND RECORDINGS The live video link will be on the City's Facebook page. Following the meeting, the link for the live meeting will be removed. The recording of the meeting will be placed on the City's webpage: www.libertyhilltx.gov PLEASE SILENCE YOUR CELL PHONES 1) CALL TO ORDER AND ESTABLISH QUORUM 2) REGULAR AGENDA a) Discussion and Update related to the Downtown Master Plan presentation from Halff Associates. (Ylda Capriccioso-Halff Associates) City_Council_Report_04_10_2024.pdf Preferred_concept_memo.pdf Preservation and Enhancement Initiatives for Liberty Hill_03.13.pdf 3) ADJOURNMENT 1 The City Council, Boards, and Commissions reserve the right to reconvene, recess, realign, change the order of business, or adjourn into Execu ve Session at any me during the course of the mee ng, prior to adjournment, to discuss any item listed above, as authorized by Texas Government Code Sec on §551.071 (Consulta on with A orney), §551.072 (Delibera ons about Real Property), §551.073 (Delibera ons about Gi s and Dona ons), §551.074 (Personnel Ma ers), §551.076 (Delibera ons about Security Devices), and §551.087 (Development). In compliance with the Americans with Disabili es Act, the City of Liberty Hill will provide reasonable accommoda on for persons a ending mee ngs. To be er serve you, requests need to be received 48 hours prior to the meeting. Contact the City Secretary at 512-778-5449 – Extension 125. POSTING CERTIFICATION: I, ELAINE SIMPSON – CITY SECRETARY – CITY OF LIBERTY HILL certify that the attached notice of meeting was duly posted on the bulletin board at City Hall located at 926 Loop 332, Liberty Hill, Texas 78642 and on the City website (www.libertyhilltx.gov) on the ______ day of ____________________, 202_ at ______. Elaine Simpson – City Secretary. REMOVAL CERTIFICATION: I ELAINE SIMPSON – CITY SECRETARY – CITY OF LIBERTY HILL certify that the attached notice of meeting was removed from the bulletin board at City Hall located at 926 Loop 332, Liberty Hill, Texas 78642 on the ______ day of __________________, 202_ at _______. INITIALS _______ 2  CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP MEETING WEDNESDAY - APRIL 10, 2024 2801 Ranch Road 1869 - Liberty Hill AGENDA ITEM 2.a Discussion and Update related to the Downtown Master Plan presentation from Halff Associates. (Ylda Capriccioso-Halff Associates) 3  Liberty Hill Downtown Master Plan Update to City Council April 10, 2024 What is the Downtown Master Plan? Liberty Hill’s Downtown Master Plan aims to enhance livability, vibrancy, and attractiveness in the downtown area and address its challenges and opportunities. Background: The City contracted with Halff Associates to initiate this effort, spanning a nine-month period aimed at developing a downtown master plan. As part of this comprehensive approach, Halff Associates collaborated with Johnson Planning to prepare a historical assessment, integral to understanding the heritage and significance of downtown Liberty Hill. The overarching goal remained shaping the future of the area through strategic private and public investments, with objectives focused on enhancing downtown livability, vibrancy, and attractiveness. The ultimate aim was to create an implementation matrix detailing prioritized actions, policies, and investments. The community engagement process included direct interviews with staff and stakeholders, an online survey, a Downtown Day Stakeholder Workshop, a Community Open House, and presentations to City Committees. Stakeholder meetings and walking tours provided crucial insights, with discussions covering downtown features, challenges, and opportunities. Key takeaways included feedback on streetscape features, walkability preferences, and desired downtown amenities, including insights gathered from the online survey. The Downtown Master Plan: The plan is broken down into seven sections as shown below. 1. Introduction 2. Community Context 3. Public Engagement 4. Historic Assessment 5. Vision & Framework 6. Implementation 7. Appendices 1: Introduction This chapter is a standard component explaining the purpose of the Downtown Master Plan and the importance of Downtown Liberty Hill. 2: Community Context This chapter provides an overview of the existing conditions of downtown assets, encompassing elements such as parking, parks, roads, and sidewalks. Additionally, it explores the significance of Liberty Hill to the community, its growth, and its regional importance. 3: Public Engagement This chapter serves as a summary of the main forms of community and public engagement. The community engagement process for the City of Liberty Hill's Downtown Master Plan was multifaceted; involving direct interviews with staff and stakeholders, an online survey, a Downtown Day workshop and open house, as well as presentations to various City Committees. 1 4 4: Historic Assessment This chapter focuses on the historical assessment component of the Downtown Master Plan. The report includes the overarching themes and key findings gathered from local residents. The assessment not only identifies opportunities for preservation initiatives but also the historical district process required for designation. 5: Vision & Framework This chapter contains the foundation of the Downtown Master Plan. It shares the vision and the preferred framework developed for Downtown Liberty Hill. The core principles and vision serve as the foundation for the downtown master plan, informing the identified Character Areas and Special Features. This section defines four unique downtown character areas—Core, Village, Flex, and Residential. Each is presented with a corresponding vision for development and future character, supported by various new features and elements. 6: Implementation This section provides the implementation approach the recommended actions outlined in the Downtown Master Plan, emphasizing the necessity of cohesive collaboration between public and private entities for success. Economic development and revitalization of downtown require patience, investment, and commitment from public officials, citizens, partners, and various city departments. Specific catalyst projects and programs include: • Development of a Downtown Streetscape Master Plan, prioritizing enhancement of the Downtown Core along Main Street and Myrtle Lane. • Enhancement of downtown walkability through sidewalk and pathway expansions. • Preservation and promotion of Liberty Hill’s history. • Updates to development codes to align with the Downtown Framework. • Coordination of wayfinding for key gateways to Liberty Hill, particularly vehicular signage along Highway 29, FM 1869, CR 279, and areas affected by the bypass. • Development of the VFW property and other vacant city-owned properties. • Implementation of Downtown building improvement programs to support infill development. The section presents an implementation matrix, which provides detailed strategies and actions for executing Liberty Hill’s Downtown Master Plan. This matrix delineates each action, required steps, responsible organization(s), and implementation timeframe, whether upon plan adoption or as ongoing initiatives. Additionally, the section outlines funding opportunities to be explored as the City pursues the plan's implementation. 7: Appendices This chapter contains appendices that supplement the Downtown Master Plan by providing greater detail for certain sections, including a full report of all the public engagements, and compilation of the historical assessment and histories gathered by Johnson Planning. Next Steps: The draft plan is currently under review by staff for any recommended changes. Over the next two weeks, the consulting team and staff will collaborate to make revisions, with the aim of presenting a finalized draft to the City Council in May. 2 5 January 18, 2024 revised 3/10/2024 updated 4/3/2023 Liberty Hill Downtown Master Plan Guiding Principles and The Downtown Framework Plan INTRODUCTION This document shares guiding principles and the preferred framework developed for Downtown Liberty Hill. The Guiding Principles serve as the foundation for the downtown master plan, informing the identified Character Areas and Special Features that, in turn, created the two framework concepts that were evaluated by staff and the Downtown Revitalization Committee (DRC). This feedback was used to develop the Downtown Framework Plan. This document also provides greater detail about the specific Character Areas and Special Features, providing an understanding of their role in shaping the framework concepts for downtown Liberty Hill. The preliminary street cross sections provided at the end serve as an initial representation of how various elements will come together in the street's configuration. The Guiding Principles The Guiding Principles for the future of Downtown Liberty Hill are intended to establish focus and aid in decision-making of investment and project in the short and long-term. The following Guiding Principles were crafted using insights gathered from both Downtown Day and the community survey. Downtown will be… • Authentic. Downtown comprises unique subareas and districts, offering a platform to showcase and commemorate the distinct history of Liberty Hill. A focus on leveraging key opportunity sites, preservation of traditional character, and ensuring high-quality development will promote authenticity, contributing to the historic preservation of the area. By respecting and maintaining the historical elements, the community can continue to cherish and celebrate its rich heritage for generations to come. • Special. Downtown features unique public spaces for community celebrations, gatherings, and family- focused activities. These special areas are enhanced by local shops and restaurants and contribute to making downtown an excellent place to wander and explore. • Distinct. Downtown is defined with a clear indication of when you have entered the downtown area. • Walkable. One of Downtown’s most important assets are its streets. The grid pattern offers small blocks and narrow streets making Downtown an easy place to walk. • Alive. Downtown offers a diverse blend of land uses, incorporating retail, employment, food/beverage, civic, and residential elements. This curated mix includes businesses that enhance walkability and contribute to a vibrant downtown atmosphere throughout the day and into the evening. • Connected. Downtown is designed and managed to facilitate seamless access, efficient circulation, and well-planned parking to ensure connectivity to both cultural and commercial assets. 6 CHARACTER AREAS Character Areas play a crucial role within Downtown, serving as unique subareas where specific land uses and physical design character are envisioned. The establishment of Character Areas is integral to breaking down Downtown into complementary districts that collectively create diverse opportunities, destinations, and places. This approach aligns seamlessly with the comprehensive plan goals, as it not only enhances the overall vibrancy and functionality of the area but also allows for a strategic alignment of development with broader community objectives. As the Plan effort progresses, Character Areas are anticipated to serve as a key driver of design and regulatory recommendations, ensuring a cohesive and goal-oriented approach to the sustainable growth and development of downtown Liberty Hill. Downtown Core (DC) Location: Core blocks around Main Street and Myrtle Lane from roundabout to FM 1869. Policy Intent: Maintain the historic and cultural prominence of Main Street by encouraging adaptive reuse of historic buildings, supporting development that is compatible with the general character of existing buildings on Main Street between Myrtle and Grange, and prioritizing pedestrians while still maintaining vehicular access. Future Characteristics: Drawing inspiration from the two vibrant downtown blocks (Main/Myrtle and Main/Grange), this area is characterized by a highly activated and compact urban environment with buildings built close to the street and one another, establishing an uninterrupted street wall that tightly frames adjacent streets. Target land uses include restaurants, bars, and shops that activate the street. Figure 1: Intense development with walkable and landscaped Residential and employment uses are focused on upper streets. floors of vertical mixed-use buildings. Urban Design: • Urban Form and Siting: Buildings sited close to the street; creation of a consistent street wall with little to no space between buildings. • Height: Structures up to four stories, with the third and fourth stories set back to maintain visual compatibility with the scale of existing traditional buildings on Main Street. • Building Orientation: Buildings and entries face Main, Myrtle, Hickman, Grange and Munro streets. • Street Edge Character: Buildings interface directly with the public realm and sidewalk. If a building is set back, the area between the building and right-of-way is generally hardscape and may include outdoor café seating. • Placemaking: The streetscape includes a hierarchy of space that boasts distinctive design elements to define walking zones, landscaped zones and the public/private zones. These elements may include benches, pedestrian scaled street lighting, and special paving, that reflect the historic rustic charm of the 1800’s. • Block Length: Blocks are linear with short distance between intersections. • Parking: Parking is positioned at the rear of the buildings, minimizing visibility from primary streets in the core. 2 7 Downtown Village (DV) Location: Along corridors leading to Downtown Core. Policy Intent: Preserve and elevate the downtown connection through green streets seamlessly transitioning from rural to urban development patterns. Future Characteristics: This Character Area is typified by a more village-like feel than the Downtown Core. Development is compact, but there is more spacing between buildings and distance between the street and buildings may vary. A lush landscape character is present along street edges, which is informed by the presence of converted homes with front yards and mature Figure 2: Example of compact downtown street. trees. Target land uses includes restaurants, bars, neighborhood commercial services, professional offices, retail and mixed-use residential and standalone residential multi-unit buildings. Urban Design: • Urban Form and Siting: Siting and building placement in new development is executed to accommodate pedestrian friendly spaces such as plazas or courtyards. Allows for space between buildings offering opportunity for more greenery. • Height: Structures up to four stories. • Building Orientation: Buildings generally oriented toward the primary street with primary entrances facing the primary street; however, some primary entries may be oriented to shared amenity spaces at the interior of a lot. • Street Edge Character: Buildings should be moderately set back from the public realm. This setback allows for the creation of hardscape areas between the building and right-of-way which typically include features like pathways, plazas, or paved areas. This can create a pleasing pedestrian experienced enhanced with landscaping and trees • Placemaking: Gateway markers, open plazas or spaces with public art, green spaces, flexible or shared outdoor seating for gathering activate the street. Includes features that promote walkability with a such as sidewalks, street furniture, bike racks, landscaping, planters, and street trees. • Block Length: Blocks are linear with short distance between intersections. • Parking: Parking options include on-street parking where available; off-street parking is positioned at the side or rear of the buildings. 3 8 Downtown Flex (DF) Location: Along DC edge and adjacent to DV buffering residential. Policy Intent: Maintain and create downtown neighborhoods/districts, with diverse development characteristics, that contain a mix of uses, including commercial and residential with appropriate transitions from less intense areas to more intense Downtown Core. Future Characteristics: This area features a less compact urban environment, blending residential and commercial uses along streets with a green landscape character. Buildings are strategically positioned along primary streets to maintain a consistent presence Figure 3: Less compact development with setbacks to accommodate street cafes, greenspace, and walkability. while allowing for some variation in building type and whether buildings are situated close to the property line or moderately set back. Target land use is a mix of small lot single units, accessory dwelling units, and lower-intensity commercial uses like smaller restaurants, shops, offices, and similar low-impact commercial activities in new buildings and adaptively reused residential structures. Urban Design: • Urban Form and Siting: Flexible siting of buildings to allow for a variable street wall; more spacing is provided between neighboring buildings to maintain the existing presence of front yards, side yards and greenspace. • Height: One and two-story commercial development is preferred to maintain compatibility with the scale of adjacent residential on streets. • Building Orientation: Entrances face the primary street along which buildings are strategically positioned. The emphasis on maintaining a consistent presence along these streets enhance accessibility and visibility for pedestrians. • Street Edge Character: Buildings are moderately set back from the public realm. This setback allows for the creation of landscaped areas, including street trees and planted areas, between the buildings and the right-of-way. Hardscape elements such as paths and small gathering areas are limited, emphasizing the importance of creating inviting and pedestrian-friendly spaces. • Placemaking: Thoughtful landscaping, street trees, and planted areas between the buildings and right-of-way create a visually appealing and pedestrian friendly environment. The use of decorative fencing or low rise walls can delineate spaces and add visual interest and enhance the overall appeal of the streetscape. • Block Length: Blocks are short distance between intersections to promote walkability and pedestrian connectivity. • Parking: Parking options include on-street parking where available; off-street parking is positioned at the rear and sides of the buildings to minimize visibility from the street. When surface parking is located adjacent to the street, it is screened with landscape buffers, decorative low walls, public art, or other screening elements. 4 9 Downtown Residential (DR) Location: Downtown neighborhoods surrounding DC, DV, and DF. Policy Intent: Maintain and preserve the traditional and historic character of existing housing in Downtown while encouraging new compatible residential infill. Future Characteristics: This area emphasizes residential development varieties in line with local priorities and community preferences, aiming to preserve the residential character of the downtown neighborhood. New residential infill development contributes to a walkable neighborhood with entries facing the street, with front porches and yards. Target land use is residential, with a mix of single unit and Figure 4: Example of missing middle residential type for downtown. missing middle products (duplexes, townhouses, etc.); larger scale multi-unit may be appropriate on a case-by-case basis if designed to meet intended character along the street; home-based occupations permitted. Urban Design: • Urban Form and Siting: Buildings are sited with small to moderate street and side setbacks creating small to medium front yards, side yards and/or shared common space. • Height: Structures up to three stories, however massing of taller buildings should be broken down with shifts in wall plane, 1-story front porches/stoop elements, pitched roofs, and other techniques. • Building Orientation: Buildings oriented toward the street with entries facing primary streets. • Street Edge Character: Buildings should be set back a small to moderate distance from the street; the area between the building and right-of-way should be heavily landscaped with the exception of paths connecting sidewalk/street to front doors. • Placemaking: Rural character fencing, low walls, landscape features and other vertical delineation along the street is common, but a more open edge is also appropriate. Pathways should be provided in front yards to connect a primary entry to the street. • Block Length: Shorter block lengths to support a more pedestrian scale street and facilitate connectivity. • Parking: Parking is located to the rear of buildings wherever possible to minimize its visual impact on the street; where possible, parking at the rear of properties should be accessed by alleys rather than the primary street. 5 10 SPECIAL FEATURES & IDEAS Street Network Expansion Policy Intent: The downtown street network should be expanded to create a more walkable grid and improve circulation. This effort should focus on strategic enhancement aimed at bolstering circulation safety and efficiency of the road network, particularly northeast of Main Street. This thoughtful expansion will provide a greater set of options for vehicles and fosters a more interconnected urban fabric, while simultaneously creating opportunities for increased development and dynamic street frontage. The street network expansion opportunities and locations depicted on the framework alternatives are conceptual. Any expansion of the network would require property owner coordination to occur Figure 5: Street network connectivity as new development occurs. and would likely occur concurrent to future development. Myrtle Lane Promenade Policy Intent: Create a vibrant and accessible environment that blends private and public realms, to create a unique and distinctly Liberty Hill experience. Featured in the Hometown Urban concept, this new signature public space capitalizes on the newly acquired VFW building property space and Veterans Memorial Park. By designing this space for leisurely walks, community gatherings, outdoor café seating for restaurants, and other activities, this Promenade creates opportunities for increased development Figure 6: Example promenade that balances storefront and pedestrian and a dynamic street frontage. activity for a vibrant active experience. Shared Street Policy Intent: The creation of walkable spaces, aiming to enhance the overall experience and accessibility of pedestrian-focused streets in Downtown. Featured in the Charming Cityscape concept, this idea offers space along an alley or narrow residential streets that functions as a signature public gathering space but allows slow moving vehicle traffic, and in some cases, parking. It is designed for flexible use to meet the desires of adjacent residents or function as Figure 7: Shared Street offers vehicular movement and pedestrian access. 6 11 a public space for socializing and leisure. These spaces are typically designed to be easily transformed into pedestrian-only spaces for special events, farmers’ markets, or other activities. Gateways Policy Intent: Create distinct alerts to drivers, walkers, and bicyclists that they have arrived in Downtown. Gateways serve as a clear signal you have entered a new location. For downtowns, these features contribute to the unique and distinctive character of the area and can provide a renewed sense of civic pride for residents and businesses. Gateways are strategically positioned and can take on various forms such as public art, signage, murals, lighting, landscape elements, or other features. As private development takes place in the downtown area, fostering collaboration with developers near identified gateway locations can encourage the design of distinctive gateways that significantly contribute to creating a heightened sense Figure 8: Mural gateway in Liberty Hill. of arrival. Myrtle Lane Connector Policy Intent: Crafted to serve as a distinctive lateral pedestrian connection to connect and enhance the accessibility between the two newly envisioned districts – Church Street and Stubblefield Districts – situated at opposite ends of Downtown. Featured in both concepts, Myrtle Lane is intentionally designed as a special lateral pedestrian connection linking the two newly envisioned districts (see below) located at either end of Downtown. The Myrtle Lane Connector is punctuated by an enhanced intersection at the Main Street midpoint creating a new focal point for Downtown. The street should be redesigned to include special features, add visual interest, enhance pedestrian safety, and increase walkability. Special lighting, enhanced sidewalks, wayfinding signage, and street art are all components that could be employed to brand and design this signature connecting street. A key intersection can be created at the intersection with Main Street using enhanced pedestrian crossing treatments, special paving elements, and other special furnishings and fixtures. 7 12 Church Street District A casual atmosphere is created in this District by embracing its eclectic mix of businesses and historic houses of worship. Here, locals and visitors are invited to enjoy a variety of experiences; one might unwind with some self-care at the spa before gathering with friends at the tavern, exploring the charming offerings at Main Street Market, and ending the evening with a delightful dinner at one of the area's exquisite dining establishments. Diverse experiences harmoniously come together in this vibrant locale to create a perfect blend of leisure and community connection. Stubblefield District With a focus on family-friendly commercial activities and the addition of new multi-family dwellings, including condos and townhomes, the Stubblefield District provides the perfect setting to foster a sense of community. This welcoming neighborhood invites residents to enjoy a leisurely stroll to the local coffee shop or savor the vibrant local arts scene, featuring acoustic shows by emerging local artists. The nearby park is the ideal spot for gatherings with friends for a picnic or barbecue. 8 13 THE DOWNTOWN FRAMEWORK PLAN 9 14 PRELIMINARY STREET CROSS SECTIONS These preliminary street cross sections serve as an initial visual representation of the potential layout and design elements. 10 15 11 16 12 17 13 18 Prepared by: Meredith Johnson, MSHP Principal Preservation Planner Johnson Planning and Preservation meredith@johnsonplanning.com | (215) 789-1901 Liberty Hill Downtown Master Plan Historic Assessment: Preservation and Enhancement Initiatives PART 1: INTRODUCTION Liberty Hill, situated in the heart of Texas, captures the essence of quintessential pioneer charm. The town's downtown area, mirroring the distinctive Texas Hill Country style, serves as a living canvas of historical architecture and narratives that echo the enduring legacy of Liberty Hill. As a testament to its rich heritage, the town initially embodied the characteristics of a typical Texas pioneer settlement. However, Liberty Hill's narrative took a fascinating turn during the cultural resurgence of the 1970s. This period marked a transformative arts renaissance, breathing new life into the community and infusing it with a creative spirit that has become synonymous with Liberty Hill's distinct character. The influence of this artistic revival has left an indelible mark, shaping the town into a unique and charming destination where the echoes of history seamlessly intertwine with the vibrant pulse of the present. Walking through Liberty Hill's downtown streets reveals not only the physical remnants of historical architecture but also the intangible stories embedded in its cultural fabric. Each building, street, and corner carries tales of the past, contributing to a collective narrative that reflects the resilience and evolution of Liberty Hill over the years. The fusion of historical roots and artistic influence has resulted in a town that celebrates its heritage while embracing the dynamic and evolving cultural landscape. Liberty Hill's unique blend of history and artistry positions it as more than just a small town; it is a captivating destination where visitors can immerse themselves in the charm of pioneer communities while experiencing the vibrancy of a community shaped by a creative renaissance. This interplay of past and present not only defines Liberty Hill but also beckons those who appreciate the beauty of history and the dynamism of artistic expression to explore and celebrate the town's unique character. PART 2: PRESERVATION PATHWAYS Historic preservation plays a pivotal role in safeguarding Liberty Hill's cultural legacy. As the town seeks to cherish its history, communities often have two traditional paths to choose from: first, the National Register of Historic Places and second, a Certified Historic District designation. The former, a federal program administered by the National Park Service, recognizes significant historical and cultural sites at the national 19 level. On the other hand, the Certified Historic District designation, managed by state authorities, offers a local approach, providing communities with the tools to preserve their unique character while fostering economic revitalization. In addition to these preservation pathways, Liberty Hill can explore various tools to further enhance its commitment to preserving its historical fabric. Adaptive reuse policies or guidance can facilitate the repurposing of historic structures, ensuring their continued relevance while maintaining their original charm. Economic development tools like Tax Increment Reinvestment Zones (TIRZ) can provide financial incentives for preserving historical assets, promoting sustainable growth. Additionally, masonry guides offer valuable insights into gentle cleaning methods, ensuring that preservation efforts prioritize the protection of Liberty Hill's distinctive architectural features. As Liberty Hill navigates the intersection of its rich past and vibrant present, a comprehensive approach to historic preservation will not only celebrate its unique history but also pave the way for a sustainable and thriving future. PART 3: KEY FINDINGS This memo outlines key findings for preserving and enhancing the cultural and historical significance of Liberty Hill. The identified initiatives aim to celebrate and protect the unique heritage of Downtown Liberty Hill, foster a sense of community pride, and attract people to Downtown. I. First, we found that there is a strong love and desire among many community members to preserve the rich history of Liberty Hill. In fact, some community members have taken it upon themselves to collect historic mementos and materials. In our conversations with community members, we delved into their memories and experiences, gaining valuable insights into the significance of various properties and events. During these discussions, we also collected documents, including photographs, letters, and historical records, which shed light on the town's evolution. Staff contributions also provided us with a comprehensive understanding of Liberty Hill's historical landscape. Amidst the historical tapestry of Liberty Hill, there are at least eight (8) properties that stand out with particular significance. These buildings, each uniquely contributing to the town's narrative, have the potential to serve as focal points for preservation efforts. Not only do these properties reflect the Texas Hill Country architectural style, but they also carry the weight of cultural and historical importance. As we examine the map, it is noteworthy to consider whether these properties align well to fall within a boundary of a new historic district. The inclusion of such historically significant sites within a district could further strengthen the town's commitment to preserving its unique heritage and enhance the overall historical character of Liberty Hill. By identifying and protecting these key properties, the community can ensure that future generations can connect with and appreciate the enduring legacy of Liberty Hill. 2 20 II. The second key finding was uncovered during our conversation with the community members. We learned that during the 1970s, Liberty Hill underwent a transformative sculpture renaissance that laid the foundation for the establishment of the Sculpture Park. This artistic movement not only shaped the cultural landscape of the city but also attracted international interest, solidifying Liberty Hill as a hub for artisans and sculptors throughout Texas and the world. The park, with its collection of artistic sculptures, has become an integral part of Liberty Hill's identity, offering a unique and immersive experience for residents and visitors alike. While the Sculpture Park continues to draw attention and admiration, there is a pressing concern regarding the aging and inadequate care of the art sculptures. The current state of disrepair is not a result of neglect but rather a lack of education and knowledge on proper maintenance practices. Recognizing the significance of the park and its sculptures to the city's cultural fabric, Liberty Hill has a valuable opportunity to take a more active role in assisting with the upkeep and preservation of this artistic treasure. By addressing the maintenance needs of the Sculpture Park, Liberty Hill will not only prolong the life of these valuable art pieces but also enhance the overall visitor experience. Implementing educational programs and resources for proper sculpture care can empower the community to actively contribute to the preservation efforts. Additionally, the city may consider collaborating with local artisans and sculptors to share expertise and establish a sustainable maintenance plan. Investing in the preservation of the Sculpture Park aligns with Liberty Hill's commitment to cultural heritage and can further elevate the city's reputation as a destination for art and creativity. This initiative not only honors the legacy of the 1970s sculpture renaissance but also ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy and be inspired by the unique artistic expressions within the heart of Liberty Hill. III. Finally, we discovered that Liberty Hill has the potential to claim the title of Outdoor Sculpture Capital of Texas. This would be a strategic initiative that goes beyond symbolic recognition: it is a catalyst for economic growth, media attention, and the establishment of Liberty Hill as a premier destination for art and culture, enriching the community and creating a lasting legacy for future generations. While Texas boasts titles such as the Barbeque Capital and Live Music Capital, the absence of a recognized Outdoor Sculpture Capital leaves an opportunity for Liberty Hill to distinguish itself in the realm of art and culture. Furthermore, media recognition stemming from the designation enhances Liberty Hill's visibility on a regional and national scale. News outlets, travel publications, and cultural platforms may highlight Liberty Hill's unique status, creating a buzz around the town's vibrant art scene. This exposure not only attracts more visitors but also positions Liberty Hill as a prominent destination for art and culture enthusiasts, establishing the city as a noteworthy hub within Texas. The recognition as the Outdoor Sculpture Capital of Texas opens doors for the hosting of cultural events and festivals, further solidifying Liberty Hill's reputation as a cultural hotspot. Events showcasing local and international sculptors, art installations, and workshops can create a dynamic 3 21  and engaging atmosphere. This not only fosters community pride but also offers residents and visitors alike a rich cultural tapestry to explore, fostering a sense of connection and appreciation for the arts. PART4: PRELIMINARY RECOMMENDATIONS In summary, the key findings from our exploration of Liberty Hill's historical context and preservation opportunities are as follows: ● Historical Significance: Liberty Hill, with its small downtown reminiscent of Texas pioneer towns and Texas Hill Country architectural style, has experienced an international arts renaissance in the 1970s, shaping its distinctive character. ● Preservation Pathways: The community's desire to preserve its history can be pursued through two main pathways—the National Register of Historic Places, a federal program recognizing sites at the national level, and Certified Historic District designation, offering a local approach for preserving the town's unique character. ● Significant Properties: The community helped identify more than eight downtown properties of particular significance, reflecting the Texas Hill Country architectural style and carrying cultural and historical importance. Additionally, the Sculpture Park is a significant property with potential ties to Downtown. The consideration of these properties within proposed new districts can further strengthen the commitment to historical preservation. By leveraging these findings, Liberty Hill can develop a comprehensive strategy that celebrates its unique history, fosters community pride, and attracts visitors, ensuring the sustainable preservation of its cultural heritage for generations to come. These initiatives, when implemented collectively, can contribute to a cohesive vision for Liberty Hill's future, preserving its unique heritage and attracting visitors to Downtown. These recommendations set the foundation for a renewed interest in honoring Liberty Hill’s unique contribution to the arts. 1. Develop and adopt a historic context statement for Downtown Liberty Hill that comprehensively outlines its historical, cultural, and architectural significance during the 1970s and the development of the Sculpture Park. Measure of Success:  Successful adoption of the historic context statement.  Integration of the context statement into preservation planning.  Use of the context statement as a reference in decision-making processes.  Develop an oral history and community archives program to strengthen the Statement. 2. Declare Liberty Hill as the Outdoor Sculpture Capital of Texas to attract attention and tourism. Measure success through increased tourism revenue, media recognition, and the number of cultural events hosted in the area. Measure of Success:  Increase tourism revenue. 4 22   Media recognition as the Outdoor Sculpture Capital of Texas.  Number of events hosted in Downtown and/or the Sculpture Park. 3. Collaborate with the Sculpture Park organization to enhance the cultural appeal of Liberty Hill. Form partnerships, organize joint events, and increase awareness of the Park through combined efforts. Measure of Success:  Number of partnerships formed with the sculpture park.  Successful organization of joint events.  Increased foot traffic resulting from collaborative efforts. 4. Explore additional opportunities for the Sculpture Park, such as holiday lights installations, rededication ceremonies, and hosting events like birthday parties for the 501(c)3 organization. Connecting these opportunities physically to Downtown will make a strong historical connection. Measure of Success:  Increased events connecting the Sculpture Park with Downtown.  Increased engagement with Sculpture Park and Downtown events.  Positive media coverage of the Sculpture Park, Downtown, and preservation initiatives. 5. Implement gentle cleaning methods to remove dirt, pollutants, and biological growth from masonry surfaces, including buildings, historic markets, and public art. Avoid abrasive techniques to prevent damage to historic buildings. Develop a set of cleaning guidelines for these specific structures. Measure of Success:  Develop a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO) program for special events in unoccupied historic structures.  Prevent major maintenance-related structural failures.  Improve the lifespan and safety of the Sculpture Park.  Use the cleaning guidelines for historic material treatment Downtown. 5 23 6 24