National Retailers Expand Presence on South Congress
New brands are moving in as the corridor braces for potential long-term construction from the Orange Line project.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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South Congress Avenue continues to shift as national brands claim storefronts while longtime local staples contend with rising commercial rents. Shoppers and business owners are navigating a transformation driven by the corridor's popularity with tourists and the looming prospect of the Orange Line transit project.
Why it matters
The changing face of South Congress reflects a broader struggle between the city's tourism-fueled economic growth and the rising costs that push out established local retailers. Business owners currently face the dual pressure of increasing rents and the potential for five years of construction if the Orange Line project proceeds as planned.
Austin's tourism sector supported 151,700 hospitality jobs in 2025 behind a total economic impact of $11.4 billion. Property valuations continue to climb, with the former Uncommon Objects building now appraised at $2.1 million, or $385 per square foot.
The players
Wrangler
A national apparel retailer planning to open a new store on South Congress Avenue.
Alberta Boot Company
A footwear company expected to establish a retail presence on South Congress by late 2026.
Cody & Sioux
A boutique retailer scheduled to open on South Congress Avenue within the next two years.
Project Connect
A transit expansion initiative that includes the proposed Orange Line light rail project.
The details
New retailers including Wrangler are moving into the corridor, with Alberta Boot Company and Cody & Sioux slated to arrive by the end of 2026. This trend follows the departures of local icons like Lucy in Disguise With Diamonds, which closed in 2022, and Uncommon Objects, which moved to Ben White Boulevard in 2017. Property owners are raising commercial rents as appraisals rise, exemplified by spaces such as 110 E. Riverside Drive listed at $30,667 per month.
Timeline
1948: The former Uncommon Objects building is constructed.
2017: Uncommon Objects moves from South Congress.
2022: Lucy in Disguise With Diamonds closes its doors.
2023: The city of Austin replaces free curbside parking with paid zones.
End of 2026: Expected opening for Alberta Boot Company and Cody & Sioux.
The Texas Context
The retail turnover on South Congress echoes the commercial shifts seen in cities across Texas facing similar pressures from rapid growth and urban transit planning. This development follows the pattern of the Orange Line transit project, which creates uncertainty for corridor businesses expecting years of potential construction.
Visitors and residents shopping on South Congress will face ongoing parking fees installed by the city in 2023. Those who frequent the area should monitor the status of the Orange Line project for future construction alerts that could impact street access.
The takeaway
The changing landscape of South Congress shows that historic storefronts are increasingly difficult to maintain amid rising property values and tourism-driven demand. Readers should keep an eye on upcoming commercial lease announcements and public updates regarding the Orange Line project timeline.
Further reading
For more updates on new storefronts and local business departures, check our Openings & Closings section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Austin American-Statesman.
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