Most nights in the pre-pandemic world, one could sip a coffee or a beer and enjoy a muffin at Austin s Coffee in Winter Park while listening to poets, comedians or musicians hone their chops on stage. The walls are lined with paintings from local artists, available for purchase. For the past 18 years, the coffee house has served as a hub for local arts of all types.
That could all change soon if the city of Winter Park has its way.
According to a City Commission agenda item from the Feb. 24 meeting, the city is looking to purchase the buildings from 929 to 957 W. Fairbanks Ave., which includes Austin s as well as Vines & Forks by the Wine Barn, Delightful treats and Nail Alchemy. The intent is to help ease traffic along Fairbanks by adding another turn lane, and they ll do that by demolishing the buildings to make more space.