University Neighborhood Overlay (UNO) Program

The purpose of the University Neighborhood Overlay (UNO) district is to promote high-density redevelopment in the West Campus area adjacent to the University of Texas at Austin. UNO was created to provide a mechanism for the creation of a densely populated but livable and pedestrian-friendly environment and to protect the character of the predominantly single-family residential neighborhoods adjacent to the district. 

The University Neighborhood Overlay (UNO) program offers numerous benefits by encouraging redevelopment that supports walkability, livability, and sustainable growth, creating a pedestrian-friendly area that enhances access to campus and local amenities. By concentrating density within the West Campus area, UNO helps preserve the character of surrounding single-family neighborhoods, maintaining a balance between urbanization and community identity. Additionally, it promotes housing options for students and young professionals, reducing the need for long commutes and supporting a thriving local economy.

 


UNO streetscape at W 22 Street and Nueces

UNO Update:

For more information about the upcoming University Neighborhood Overlay update, please refer to the SpeakUp Austin page.

 


 UNO streetscape at W 26th and Seaton Ave

History

The University Neighborhood Overlay, or UNO, was first adopted in 2004 to promote high-density, pedestrian-oriented redevelopment of the West Campus area that maintains the area's existing character and stimulates income-restricted affordable housing development. By design, the overlay supersedes specific site development standards and allows land uses to encourage development that serves the primarily student population of the area. This includes reduced required parking spaces, increased maximum allowable building height and bulk, and allowance for a mix of local, pedestrian-serving commercial uses. For a property to qualify to develop under UNO, additional requirements must be met, including providing affordable housing and adherence to stricter streetscape and design standards. These regulations were crafted through a robust community process involving residents and stakeholders.

Since their original adoption, UNO regulations were amended in 2014 and 2019. The 2014 amendment allowed participating developments to rent by the bedroom and increased the affordability period from 15 to 40 years. Amendments in 2019 created a second tier of maximum allowed building height available through the dedication of additional affordable housing units or bedrooms. These amendments demonstrate the commitment to updating UNO to address necessary changes that better serve students and the surrounding community.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many units are income-restricted under UNO guidelines and regulations?

A: As of 2023, the city tracked 572 units and 911 beds that were income-restricted under UNO.

 

Q: How many University of Texas students could qualify for income-restricted units in UNO?

A: Nearly 25,000 UT students receive financial aid, many of whom could qualify.

 

Q: How many future income-restricted units can be expected in the UNO area?

A: Planned development is bringing approximately 281 affordable bedrooms and 382 affordable units in future years.

 

Q: How many updates have there been to the original UNO ordinance?

A: Since the Austin City Council passed the original UNO ordinance in 2004, there have been seven amendments, with the most transformative changes occurring in 2014 and 2019.

Resources

University Neighborhood Overlay Building Criteria Manual

University Neighborhood Overlay Ordinance: 

  • Ordinance 040902-58
  •   Ordinance 20140213-056 (amendment to original ordinance)   
Contact Information

Jill Amezcua (Program Manager, Urban Design Division)

jill.amezcua@austintexas.gov; +1 (512) 978-1702