The City of Boerne broke ground Thursday on much-anticipated improvements to the parking lot in the 600 block of Plant Avenue, a key public parking area serving the downtown and River Road corridor.
“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, the city’s director of engineering and mobility. “Once complete, these improvements will benefit everyone who uses the Cibolo Lot, commonly referred to as the Plant Street parking lot.”
City staff gathered at the site to mark the start of construction. Planned improvements include:
- New asphalt, curbing, and striping
- ADA-compliant sidewalks
- New entry and exit along Mesquite Street
- New dark sky-compliant lighting
- Upgraded signage identifying public parking
- Enhanced landscaping
The Cibolo Lot will close to the public beginning Monday, Feb. 9. Construction is expected to last approximately three months, weather permitting.
Street parking along Plant Avenue, Mesquite Street, and River Road will remain available, though spaces closest to the construction area may be temporarily impacted.
“Providing a safe, accessible, and welcoming downtown is essential to Boerne’s long-term success,” Mayor Frank Ritchie said. “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 City coordinated the timing of the project with nearby property owners, including the Dodging Duck Brewhaus, a popular downtown brewery and restaurant. Additionally, the enhanced landscaping and signage adheres to the City’s Urban Corridor Design and Enhancement Guide, which incorporates many of Boerne’s strong 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,” City Councilmember Joe Bateman said. “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.”
Visitors are encouraged to follow posted signage in the area and allow extra time when traveling through the area during construction.
Recycling and reuse of materials is a key component of the project. Existing road base will be repurposed by the Boerne Streets Department, while boulders and concrete parking stops will be reused by the Parks and Recreation Department at other City facilities. The approach helps reduce project costs and supports efficient use of resources.
The City entered into a lease agreement on the property with the Lower Colorado River Authority in 2004, and it has been used as public parking since at least 2008. In July 2021, Boerne City Council approved the purchase of the remaining parcel from LCRA to ensure the property remained dedicated to public parking.
The lot will remain closed for the duration of construction of the nearly $500K project to allow the contractor to work safely.
