St. Edwards

St. Edwards is a neighborhood located in South Central Austin, bounded by Lady Bird Lake to the north, Ben White Boulevard to the south, South Congress Avenue to the west, and Interstate 35 to the east. As part of the Greater South River City Combined Neighborhood Planning Area, St. Edwards comprises approximately 750 acres and is home to roughly 3,130 residents according to 2000 census data. The neighborhood is characterized by its proximity to downtown Austin and its position within the urban core, representing less than 1% of the total city area. St. Edwards benefits from its location near major natural amenities including Barton Springs Pool and the Edwards Aquifer, which are managed by the Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer Conservation District. The neighborhood planning area was formally adopted by the City of Austin on September 29, 2005, following an extensive 18-month community engagement process that shaped the area's future development around six key focus areas: land use, transportation, urban design, zoning, creeks and environmental protection, and parks and open space.

St. Edwards offers an urban South Austin lifestyle with convenient access to downtown Austin, Lady Bird Lake recreational opportunities, and the vibrant South Congress corridor. The neighborhood is represented by three community associations: South River City Citizens (SRCC), the South Austin Commercial Alliance (SACA), and Avenue Merchants, which actively engage residents in neighborhood planning and community events. The area experienced significant population growth between 1990 and 2000, with the St. Edwards neighborhood population increasing by 27%, reflecting the broader appeal of South Austin's central location and urban amenities. Residents enjoy proximity to Barton Springs Pool, one of Austin's most iconic natural attractions, as well as access to Lady Bird Lake for kayaking, paddleboarding, and waterfront recreation. The neighborhood is walkable with access to South Congress Avenue's eclectic mix of local businesses, restaurants, and entertainment venues that define South Austin's distinctive character.

St. Edwards is served by Austin Independent School District (AISD). The specific elementary, middle, and high schools serving this neighborhood are not detailed in the available planning documents, but the area falls within AISD's South Austin attendance zones. Residents should verify current school assignments with AISD, as boundaries may have changed since the 2005 neighborhood plan adoption. The South Austin area is generally known for having strong community engagement in education and access to both traditional public schools and magnet programs within AISD.

St. Edwards benefits from its proximity to South Congress Avenue, one of Austin's most vibrant entertainment and dining corridors. The South Austin Commercial Alliance actively supports local businesses throughout the neighborhood. While specific individual establishments are not detailed in the neighborhood planning documents, the South Congress area is known for its eclectic mix of independent restaurants, bars, cafes, vintage shops, and entertainment venues that reflect Austin's creative culture. The neighborhood also provides access to Barton Springs Pool, a major recreational and social hub, and Lady Bird Lake's trail system for outdoor activities. The Avenue Merchants association represents additional commercial interests within the planning area.

St. Edwards represents a diverse housing market within South Austin's urban core. The neighborhood includes a mix of housing types typical of established urban neighborhoods, including older single-family homes, bungalows, and various residential structures developed over several decades. As part of the Greater South River City planning area's approximately 1,500 acres, St. Edwards (750 acres) accommodates the neighborhood's population of approximately 3,130 residents. The 2005 neighborhood plan emphasized infill development, urban design quality, and preservation of the area's character while accommodating growth. Housing in this central South Austin location commands premium pricing due to proximity to downtown, Lady Bird Lake, and South Congress amenities. The neighborhood plan focused on sustainable development, environmental protection related to the Edwards Aquifer, and creek preservation, which influences development patterns and property values. Prospective buyers should expect established neighborhoods with mature trees, walkable streets, and access to urban amenities, with pricing reflecting South Austin's desirable central location.