Protect our Cove and Preserve Lakeway: Reject the Clara Van Rezoning and the Creek at Hurst Harbor PUD

Lakeway’s safety, scenic corridors, natural environment, and balanced growth are at risk.

The Clara Van tract and Hurst Harbor Marina property (proposed “Creek at Hurst Harbor” PUD) are under consideration for major zoning changes that would allow large-scale, high-intensity, and higher-density mixed-use and commercial development along Hurst Creek Cove and Clara Van Drive—areas currently zoned Single-Family Residential and Marina.

The proposal amounts to spot zoning—singling out one property for special treatment inconsistent with Lakeway’s Comprehensive Plan and surrounding residential zoning—and would even convert a residential parcel into a mixed-use commercial hub, isolating a homeowner from the rest of their neighbors and allowing noise and planned outdoor music until 10 p.m. on weekdays and MIDNIGHT on WEEKENDS and holidays—all in a cove where the slightest sound carries across the water into our properties and homes, even miles away.

The natural soundscapes we’re used to would be replaced with the constant hum of commercial activity, nightlife, amplified music, and artificial noise echoing across the water. And this large urban-style condominium complex would be built directly across from Lakeway City Park, changing the very essence of our beautiful park.

These changes would increase density, worsen traffic congestion and safety risks, and place additional strain on local infrastructure, the environment, and wildlife habitats—permanently altering the scenic and low-intensity character of this Lakeway cove.

The developer confirmed during the ZAPCO hearing that short-term rental (STR) use is part of the plan. Because PUDs can override standard zoning restrictions, this development could bypass many of the rules that protect nearby neighborhoods. In addition, PUDs don’t have to follow the same STR restrictions that the rest of Lakeway has to abide by, meaning this arrangement would bring continuous visitor turnover and commercial lodging activity to a park-adjacent residential area—transforming the site into a short-term rental hub with ongoing noise, lighting, and safety impacts next to where our families live, play, swim, and kayak.

Furthermore, the proposed towering urban-style development would dominate views, looming above nearby residences and parkland. Our serene cove surrounded by parkland and greenbelts would be transformed into a loud, action-packed party cove with serious safety and environmental concerns. If this passes, the quiet nights, dark skies, and majestic wildlife that make this area special and drew us here will be forever gone.

We, the undersigned, call on the Lakeway City Council to:

• REJECT the proposed rezoning of the Clara Van property from Residential and Marina to Mixed-Use and/or Commercial;
• DENY approval of the Planned Unit Development (PUD) known as The Creek at Hurst Harbor on the Lakeway City Park–adjacent marina site;
• SAY NO to spot zoning changes that are inconsistent with the surrounding neighborhoods and parkland, and inconsistent with Lakeway’s Comprehensive Plan and surrounding zoning; and
• PRIORITIZE the long-term safety, quality of life, and character that Lakeway residents value over short-term development gains that compromise community integrity.

The petition will be included in the official record of public opposition provided to City Council and the Mayor.

This petition is organized by Preserve Lakeway, a community coalition committed to keeping Lakeway scenic, balanced in growth, and sustainable—protecting our community’s character, parks, wildlife, and natural resources for generations to come.

It is co-sponsored by Friends of Clara Van, a coalition of Lakeway neighborhoods along Hurst Creek Cove and Clara Van Road united to preserve our community’s safety, small-town character, and tranquil lakeside lifestyle.