I attended the University of Texas at Austin nearly 30 years ago. Austin was a great place to live. I also lived in Austin for a few months back in 2007. Things were getting expensive. But, otherwise, it still had its charms.
Before COVID shutdowns, I attended a conference in Austin. We stayed at a place above 6th Street near the Austin Convention Center. Austin wasn't so cool. There were homeless camping out downtown. Day or night, they were out there asking for change from passersby.
Driving around the downtown area, we also saw encampments with tents. I had not been to Austin since then until a couple of weeks ago. I have kept up with the news. Austin has a growing homeless problem, reaching California levels. Austin can't seem to figure out a way to deal with it.
Based on my experience and the articles I have read, I was under the impression that the problem is widespread throughout Austin. However, it did not seem present around the Arboretum. Streets were clean. There were no homeless encampments in sight. This was a pleasant surprise. Even better, that part of Austin is visually appealing. I felt more inclined to spend time outdoors.
If I have to go to Austin again, I'll be sure to hotel near the Arboretum. My family and I had already written off Austin as a destination. But, I think we will have to reconsider.
The change of Austin being a great place to visit to being overwhelmed by homelessness was drastic. I would attend conventions and work events every year by the Austin Convention Center. Then one year I went and everywhere we turned we were being approached by homeless people. It was a shock. What had happened from one year to the next? I have no idea. So, I'm glad to hear that during your recent visit things have improved.
Sort of. I wasn’t anywhere near downtown .