Bastrop Proposes New Rules to Fill Downtown Storefronts

October 16, 2026 - 21:07

City leaders in Bastrop are moving forward with a plan that would require at least 60 percent of ground-floor storefronts in the Downtown Historic District to be used for customer-facing businesses. The proposal aims to breathe new life into the historic core, where several retail spaces have sat empty or been converted to offices and other uses that do not draw foot traffic.

Under the draft rules, property owners would need to keep a majority of street-level spaces open to the public, whether as shops, restaurants, galleries, or service businesses. The remaining share could still be used for offices, storage, or other purposes. Supporters say the change would create a more vibrant streetscape and help existing merchants by concentrating activity along the main corridors.

Some building owners have raised concerns about flexibility and the cost of finding tenants that meet the new standard. City staff say the goal is not to punish landlords but to protect the character of the district and support small businesses. Public feedback will be collected before the measure goes to a final vote later this year. If approved, the requirement would apply to new leases and major renovations rather than existing operations.