AUSTIN, Texas — City officials announced plans to replace water-filled plastic barriers with concrete barriers along Sixth Street in Downtown Austin starting this week.
The new concrete barriers will offer increased durability and protection compared to the current plastic ones, according to assessments conducted by city planners.
The installation is scheduled to occur throughout the week, with efforts made to minimize disruptions to businesses and traffic.
The barriers, considered a temporary measure, will remain in place until city officials identify a long-term solution. Strategic placement along Sixth Street will be based on traffic and pedestrian flow studies.
Officials said they have coordinated with local businesses and residents to prepare for the changes. Public notifications were issued ahead of the installation to ensure community awareness.
The city has not provided a budget or a definitive timeline for the barriers’ removal but confirmed that the current measure is preventive, especially ahead of events expected to increase foot and vehicle traffic.
Austin authorities will monitor the effectiveness of the concrete barriers and collect feedback from the community to inform future decisions.