Austin Will Weigh Lions Municipal Course Deal

The city and University of Texas eye a potential ownership transfer for the historic golf course.

Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Golf

Austin Will Weigh Lions Municipal Course Deal

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The city of Austin and the University of Texas are nearing an agreement to transfer ownership of the Lions Municipal Golf Course to the city. The Austin City Council is scheduled to vote on this proposed deal on November 19, 2026.

Why it matters

This agreement aims to guide the development of land along Lady Bird Lake while preserving the site of the historic golf course. Donors have contributed funds to the university to support students and help ensure the property remains protected.

The Lions Municipal Golf Course is an 18-hole facility that celebrated its 100-year anniversary in 2024. In 1950, golfers paid 85 cents to carry their bags at the course.

The players

University of Texas

A public research university that currently holds ownership of the land where the golf course is located.

Austin City Council

The legislative body for the city of Austin responsible for voting on municipal agreements and city planning.

West Austin Youth Association

A local organization involved in the proposed agreement alongside the city and the university.

The details

The proposed deal involves amending the 1989 Brackenridge Development Agreement and creating a Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone to manage the area. It includes the exchange of city rights-of-way and requires coordination with the West Austin Youth Association.

1950: Lions Municipal Golf Course integrated.
April 1951: Austin City Council recognized the golf course desegregation.
1989: Brackenridge Development Agreement established.
November 19, 2026: Proposed City Council vote on agreement.
Spring 2027: Expected adoption of agreement components.

Season Trajectory

This deal updates the 1989 Brackenridge Development Agreement to facilitate the transfer of golf course property. It represents a significant shift in long-term local land management and municipal sports facility ownership.

The potential ownership transfer shifts the management of the city’s first integrated golf course from a month-to-month lease to permanent municipal control. This change secures the long-term status of the course for local golfers and the West Austin Youth Association.

The takeaway

Lions Municipal Golf Course holds historical significance as the first integrated course in the American South. The current proposal aims to balance the university's property interests with the city's commitment to maintaining a century-old recreational space.

What happens next

The city of Austin plans to brief the Environmental and Planning Commission on the proposal in October 2026, followed by a potential City Council vote on November 19, 2026. Staff are expected to return next spring to seek consideration for the regulating plan and Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone.