The Texas Society of Architects Advocates for Architecture Day will take place today in Austin. Architects from across the state will converge on the Texas Capitol to meet with legislators to promote the importance of architectural design for urban planning. Our own MG'er Christopher Collins, Architect, will be on hand to lobby key issues with our local representatives.
During the 84th Regular Legislative Session, architects expect challenges relating to the laws governing: Qualifications Based Selection (QBS), Local K-12 public school planning and design, Public-Private Partnership (P3) bill - We helped amend this bill last session, and it is likely to change again in 2015. Adequate funding for public works - Facilities funding must grow to keep pace with population increases, which it has not done recently. Dollars must be appropriated now for Tuition Revenue Bonds (TRBs) and to save Texas' historic courthouses.
The primary goal of Advocates for Architecture Day is to create and strengthen the awareness among legislators of the implications of good architectural design. Well-designed buildings and infrastructure positively impact the state's resources (i.e. water, energy, maintenance costs, etc.) as well as the health, safety, and welfare (HSW) of all Texans. Chris is looking forward to telling our profession's story! Congratulations to all who are participating in this endeavor.
