AUSTIN, Texas — The nonprofit behind a popular Austin nightlife destination is once again asking for help to keep several of its programs afloat.
The Red River Cultural District (RRCD) posted to social media Wednesday, reiterating its need for donations amid continued financial strain.
"We find ourselves at a critical crossroads and on the brink of ending many of our community programs due to unforeseen challenges," the nonprofit wrote in part.
Those programs could include the RRCD's admission-free music festivals Free Week and Hot Summer Nights.
The nonprofit is asking for support from businesses and philanthropic organizations after facing a series of issues. According to the post, its main concerns include increasing rent and insurance costs, affordability, the Texas Department of Transportation's Interstate 35 expansion project and parking.
Other problems listed are continued downtown developments, concerns with the city's unhoused population and the redevelopment of the Austin Convention Center.
To help combat these issues, the RRDC is offering a number of partnership services to local businesses, including photos and videos, newsletters and promotions, branded content, festival badges, product placement opportunities and more.
Over the summer, RRCD leaders urgently asked the city of Austin for financial help. A resolution was passed in an attempt to find funding, but the nonprofit soon learned there wasn't any available.
An additional ordinance was then passed to secure funding, which "sets aside $150,000 per year from that revenue source this upcoming fiscal year, starting October 1st, for the exclusive purpose of merchant association efforts in the Red River Cultural District," according to a statement from City Councilmember Zo Qadri.
Below are some of KVUE's previous articles chronically the RRCD's financial struggles:
- With Hot Summer Nights near, Red River Cultural District businesses plead for more city funding
- Red River Cultural District continues push for funding from city of Austin
- Austin leaders sign off on funding aimed at helping the Red River Cultural District
- Red River Cultural District asks for community's help getting funds from City of Austin
- Red River Cultural District asks City of Austin commission for funding