Members of the Integrative Biology section of the School of Biological Sciences at the University of Texas have come forward with their own plan (large pdf) for the portion of the Brackenridge Tract currently containing the Brackenridge Field Laboratory. UT's Brackenridge Tract Tack Force recently recommended that the University hire an outside master planner to propose redevelopment for the entire tract, including the field laboratory. The biologists' plan contemplates creation of a new Institute for Biotic Systems & Biodiversity, which would consolidate various existing UT biology facilities at this location, while preserving most of the existing research space. The plan would also extend the hike-and-bike trail through around the development and include some room for private, mixed-use development along a short section of Lake Austin Boulevard.

We'd rather see mixed-use development all along Lake Austin Boulevard (instead of the surface parking that is there now and appears to stay in place under this plan) and having the hike-and-bike trail cross Lake Austin Boulevard doesn't seem like a great plan, but otherwise this is an interesting proposal and a nice way to improve an important UT asset. UT will hold a public hearing to discuss the development at 2 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 9 at Ashbel Hall (201 West 7th Street).