The Austin Revitalization Authority (ARA) is a private, non-profit community development corporation working in the East 11th and 12th Street Commercial Corridors to restore the cultural and economic viability that once thrived in the historic area of East Austin. Our mission is to engage in commercial, residential and cultural development that promotes community well-being, while respecting the people, institutions and history of East Austin and other under-served communities. As we usher in a new era in ARA history with the launch of our new logo and rebranding of the organization, it is crucial to recognize how far ARA has come in 25 years.
Since 1995, the Austin Revitalization Authority has worked to develop residential, commercial, and cultural spaces in East Austin and other areas in Central Texas. As an institution with a deep understanding of and respect for the people and history of Austin’s Black community, we continue to lead efforts to create sustainable communities in areas in need of vibrant business corridors, housing, and distinct cultural assets.
We stand shoulder-to-shoulder with other enterprising thinkers and doers who bring authenticity, purpose, and compassion to this vision and seek to magnify shared successes through collaboration. Our three-fold purpose is to RESPECT • RESTORE • REVITALIZE.
Respect - honoring the heritage, culture, and infrastructure of East Austin, and earning trust through responsible actions and clear intentions aligned with diverse shareholders across the community.
Restore - responsibly reclaiming the potential of Black East Austin as a safe, inclusive, and vibrant neighborhood without barriers to opportunity.
Revitalize – enlarging possibilities for everyone by bringing new energy, fresh ideas, responsible investment, and beneficial partnerships to residential and commercial development and other community initiatives impacting East Austin and other underserved communities
As our organization has evolved over the past 25 years, we’ve played an integral part in shaping and supporting the East Austin community. What began as an effort to renovate the historic East 11th and East 12th streets, has now grown into an incredible community corporation and resource for the people. We at ARA envision a thriving, prosperous, and healthy East Austin with neighborhoods that honor, nurture, and celebrate underserved communities.
Just because Austin Revitalization Authority’s look may have transformed, does not mean our mission has changed. Our mission is to continue to encourage residential, commercial and cultural development that promotes community well-being while respecting the people, the institutions, and the history of East Austin and other underserved communities.