Plant Street Lot gets a revamp

Parking area closed during facelift

City officials broke ground last week on a project designed to help alleviate parking headaches along River Road and in downtown Boerne.

More than $400,000 of improvements are underway on the parking lot — The Cibolo Lot, often referred to as the Plant Street Lot — in the 600 block of Plant Avenue, the only parking lot near River Road, officials said.

“Providing a safe, accessible and welcoming downtown is essential to Boerne’s longterm success,” Mayor Frank Ritchie said in a prepared release. “By planning ahead, saving over several years and paying cash for this project, we’re demonstrating a strategic and fiscally responsible approach to public improvements.”

The lot closed Feb. 9 and will remain shut down until the project finishes, estimated to be in three months, officials said.

“As the only public parking lot near River Road, it’s important that we invest in updates that improve access, safety and the overall visitor experience,” said Jeff Carroll, city director of engineering and mobility.

Planned improvements include new asphalt, curbing and striping; Americans With Disabilities Act-compliant sidewalks; new entry and exit along Mesquite Street; new lighting that enhances “dark sky” views; and upgraded signs identifying public parking.

Street parking along Plant, Mesquite and River Road will remain available, though spaces closest to the construction may be temporarily closed off.

City officials coordinated the timing of the project with nearby property owners, including the Dodging Duck Brewhaus.

Enhanced landscaping and signage adhere to the city’s Urban Corridor Design and Enhancement Guide, which incorporates many of the city’s identifying features such as limestone, rustic metals and native plants.

“A project like this has a big impact on day-to-day life and balances function with character,” said Councilman Joe Bateman. “Improved safety, new lighting, better sidewalks and clearer access mean people can move through downtown with confidence and feel good about spending time in this area.”