City Council took the first step toward broadening the types of multiunit housing that can be built in Austin neighborhoods and allowing more mixed-use development citywide.

The details: New zoning categories advanced March 26 included one to support more multiunit “missing middle” housing at scales in between single-family homes and bigger apartment complexes. Another is aimed at transit- and pedestrian-oriented developments blending residential and commercial space, from smaller corner stores to larger mixed-use buildings.

Specific details for the two concepts forwarded in a resolution from council member Paige Ellis are still to be determined. Her approved resolution builds on a January study by city planners that evaluated Austin’s current stock of missing middle and mixed-use development and laid out policy recommendations to expand those options.

Next steps: This spring’s vote is just the first step toward creating the zoning categories and eventually seeing development take place under the policies. The city will spend the next year drafting the zoning districts.

Kites, wiener dogs, bluegrass and more—the spring festival season is here, and it stretches well beyond Austin city limits. 

ABC Kite Fest
Nearly a century old, this Zilker Park tradition will pull more than 10,000 kites into the Austin sky. Handmade and commercial kites will compete side-by-side while live music, children’s activities, a pet zone and a mini market populate the park.

• April 11, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Free (admission)
• 2100 Barton Springs Road, Austin

• April 24-26, times vary
• Free (admission)
• 710 S. Main St., Georgetown

• April 25-26, 8 a.m.
• $10
• 204 San Antonio St., Buda

The owners of Freddo, a coffee shop in South Austin, introduced additional owners to reopen the business as a sports bar in February.

What's new: Walter's Tavern now offers a full bar and kitchen until midnight and continues to serve coffee. Patrons can participate in watch parties for sporting events featuring a 15-foot jumbotron outside, live music, free pool, trivia and poker nights.

Did you know: Walter's Tavern is located at a Victorian building that was originally home to Walter Tips—a prominent politician and businessman in Austin in the late 1800s, according to the Austin History Center. The historic house is rumored to be haunted, according to Walter's Tavern's website.

• 2336 S. Congress Ave., Austin