#United States #Austin #Austin Texas #Next Level Valet #Old Sixth Street

Streamlining Visitor Experience in Austin's Old Sixth Street District

Austin's vibrant Old Sixth Street District is renowned for its lively atmosphere, diverse restaurants, and entertainment options. However, the challenge of parking has often turned visits into stressful experiences. Addressing this issue, the Austin-based Next Level Valet & Parking is set to roll out a $15 validated valet service on August 22, enhancing convenience for both locals and visitors alike.

The Pilot Program Details

Expected to start on August 22, this initiative marks the first permitted valet district in the public right-of-way of Austin. The service will launch with a designated valet stand located at 500 San Jacinto, conveniently situated between Fifth and Sixth Streets. The pilot will initially cover the area stretching from I-35 to Congress Avenue.

Next Level Valet CEO Andies Shepherd expressed excitement about the new venture, emphasizing that getting to Old Sixth's attractions should be hassle-free. Shepherd stated, "With support from the Pecan Street Owners Association and coordination with the city, we're organizing curbside valet so guests can park once, enjoy their night, and retrieve their vehicle in seconds."

Convenient Hours and Pricing

The valet service will function from Thursday to Saturday during the hours of 4:30 PM to 3:00 AM. The pricing structure includes a streamlined $15 validation for guests who make a same-night purchase at participating businesses. For those who may not wish to shop locally, the standard price will be $25, and an overnight option is available for $45. This provides a cost-effective solution that encourages more visits to the area.

After 3:00 AM, any vehicles left behind will be secured and available for pickup starting at 7:00 AM at The Driskill valet stand located at 604 Brazos St.

Seamless Technology Integration

Next Level Valet is integrating technology to ensure a smooth experience for guests. Upon drop-off, patrons will supply their phone numbers and receive valet tickets along with a text message containing their ticket number. This message will include a review link, payment link, and request link – all in one. This ensures minimal hassle for users and a streamlined process for the business.

Promoting Safe Travel Practices

While the new service aims to facilitate easiness in accessing the district, safety remains a top priority. Next Level Valet encourages patrons who stay out past 3:00 AM to utilize rideshare or taxis for their return journey, thereby promoting responsible travel practices.

Shannon Sedwick, co-founder of Esther's Follies, remarked on the importance of this initiative. “Organizing the curb is part of making the district welcoming – less circling for parking means more patrons inside. This pilot shows businesses pulling together to enhance the guest experience.”

The valet stand’s location also provides easy access to the Red River Cultural District, establishing streamlined transportation access across the two bustling nightlife areas.

Collaborating for a Greater Experience

Participating businesses will validate parking for guests through a simple QR code located within their establishments. This approach maintains light tenant administration and allows for seamless departures. Next Level will diligently track various metrics throughout the pilot, including parked vehicles and staffing to guide future expansions.

Should the pilot prove successful, additional locations may open, creating a model whereby guests can drop off their vehicles at one stand and pick them up at another – a best practice already established in cities like Fort Worth and San Antonio.

According to Blake Thompson of the Pecan Street Owners Association, this pilot aims to elevate the service experience in Old Sixth Street and create a cohesive brand experience that lets guests know they've arrived in one of Austin's most iconic entertainment districts.

Historically, visitors to the area have come in groups to celebrate and attend events, making efficient ingress and egress essential. The $15 validated option transforms what could otherwise be a cumbersome visit into a simple and enjoyable experience.

Enhancing Safety and Community Engagement

The collaboration with individual businesses for private security through Next Level Security has also shown positive results. Records indicate a 19% decline in both violent and property crime incidents in the district since early 2024. The improved safety, in conjunction with a recent pilot program that reopened Sixth Street to vehicle traffic, has fostered a sense of community among business owners aimed at revitalizing the area.

Next Level Valet and Parking is dedicated to designing premium parking experiences tailored for hospitality, blending technology with exceptional customer service. With extensive operations in major Texas cities, the company is committed to ensuring safe and efficient guest movement in popular areas.

Operating under the Pecan Street Owners Association, a non-profit focused on preserving and promoting the unique character of the East Sixth Street National Register Historic District, this initiative is a fundamental step in enhancing both economic and cultural vigor in the community. Together, these efforts aim to improve visitor experiences and further the area's revitalization.