The Austin Transit Partnership (ATP) has published a draft environmental impact statement for Project Connect, which raises alarms among parks advocates. The central concern is the potential expropriation of city parkland, specifically Waller Beach at Town Lake Metro Park, without obtaining consent from Austin voters. Advocates assert that under Chapter 26 of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Code, any such action necessitates a public hearing and subsequent vote. There are additional issues pertaining to the planned Travis Heights Station's construction impacting nearby off-leash dog parks. Ultimately, the City Council's consideration of a Chapter 26 hearing is necessary, but advocates insist a public vote is essential for legitimacy.
Parks advocates are concerned that the Austin Transit Partnership's plan to expropriate city parkland for Project Connect violates the Austin City Charter and requires a public vote.
Larry Akers and others argue that taking Waller Beach and other parkland for the rail system cannot proceed without voter approval, as mandated by Chapter 26.
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