Mueller Master Development Agreement: Understanding the Key Terms and Implications

The Mueller Master Development Agreement is a landmark agreement that played a significant role in the development of Mueller, a mixed-use urban community in Austin, Texas. This agreement was signed in 2004 between the city of Austin, Catellus Development Corporation (now known as Prologis), and Mueller Airport Redevelopment, LP. Since then, the agreement has set the framework for the development of the Mueller community, which has become a model for sustainable, urban development.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the key terms and implications of the Mueller Master Development Agreement, and how it has influenced the development of the Mueller community.

Key Terms of the Mueller Master Development Agreement

1. Mixed-use development: The Mueller Master Development Agreement envisioned a mixed-use community that includes residential, commercial, and retail spaces. The agreement stipulated that at least 25% of the residential units should be affordable housing, and that at least 30% of the commercial and retail spaces should be locally-owned businesses.

2. Sustainable development: The Mueller community was designed with sustainability in mind. The Mueller Master Development Agreement required that all buildings meet LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) standards, and that at least 25% of the energy used in the community should come from renewable sources.

3. Public amenities: The agreement also required the development of public amenities, such as parks, trails, and open spaces. The Mueller community includes over 140 acres of parks, including the Mueller Lake Park, which features a swimming pool, playground, and a lake.

4. Infrastructure: The Mueller Master Development Agreement required the development of infrastructure, such as roads, utilities, and public transportation. The community is served by multiple bus routes, and a new rail line is currently under construction.

Implications of the Mueller Master Development Agreement

The Mueller Master Development Agreement has had a significant impact on the development of the Mueller community and has set a precedent for sustainable, urban development.

1. Affordable housing: The requirement for at least 25% of the residential units to be affordable housing has helped to address the issue of housing affordability in Austin. The Mueller community includes a mix of market-rate and affordable housing units, which has helped to create a diverse community.

2. Locally-owned businesses: The requirement for at least 30% of the commercial and retail spaces to be locally-owned businesses has helped to support small businesses in Austin. The Mueller community includes a variety of locally-owned businesses, such as shops, restaurants, and grocery stores.

3. Sustainability: The requirement for all buildings to meet LEED standards and for at least 25% of the community`s energy to come from renewable sources has helped to reduce the community`s carbon footprint. The Mueller community has become a model for sustainable development and has received numerous awards for its green initiatives.

4. Public amenities: The development of public amenities, such as parks and trails, has helped to create a sense of community in Mueller. The parks and open spaces in the community are popular gathering places for residents and help to promote a healthy and active lifestyle.

Conclusion

The Mueller Master Development Agreement has been a key factor in the development of the Mueller community. The agreement`s emphasis on mixed-use development, sustainability, affordable housing, and public amenities has helped to create a vibrant and diverse community in Austin. As urban development continues to evolve, the Mueller Master Development Agreement serves as a model for sustainable, community-focused development.