Green Urbanism at Mueller

Merging environmental protection, economic prosperity, community cohesion, multi-modal connectivity, abundant open space and aesthetic beauty

The redevelopment of the 711-acre former Austin Mueller Municipal Airport began in earnest in the early 2000s, conceived as a master development with a projected 10,000 residents and 10,000 jobs.  Sustainability was identified early on as one of Mueller’s six central tenets, along with fiscal responsibility, economic development, East Austin revitalization, compatibility with surrounding neighborhoods, and diversity.

CMPBS began our collaboration on the project in 2004, collaborating with Mueller’s Master Developer Catellus Development Group, Master Planner ROMA Design Group (now McCann Adams Studio) and a host of other consultants integrating the shared interests of sustainability and New Urbanism into a coordinated effort, “Green Urbanism”: merging environmental protection, economic prosperity, community cohesion, multi-modal transit connectivity, abundant open space and aesthetic beauty around a common theme.

In 2006, The Center developed the Mueller Green Resources Guide, a nuts-and-bolts primer for contractors, building owners and residents on the how’s and why’s of green urbanism, including extensive resources and references. All buildings at Mueller are required to achieve either a LEED™ for New Construction certification or an Austin Energy Green Building rating.

Protecting air quality, reducing the urban heat island effect, protecting the night sky, and creating green buildings are applicable to all proposed development.  In addition, CMPBS co-developed and oversaw compliance with construction best practice requirements associated with waste management, noise, and air quality targeting non-building construction activities, not in widespread practice even today.

Mueller was selected as one of about 240 LEED™ for Neighborhood Development Pilot Projects in 2007, and earned Stage 3 LEED Gold Certification in 2017.