Austin Mourns Progressive Visionary, Chris Riley

Austin Loses a Champion

URL: https://www.statesman.com/story/news/politics/government/2023/07/31/chris-riley-former-austin-city-council-member-dies-cancer/11842611/

Austin has lost a true champion of progress and a passionate, dedicated soul. Former Austin City Council member Chris Riley passed away Sunday from cancer complications, aged 60.

Riley's family confirmed his passing, stating that he spent his final moments surrounded by loved ones, peacefully passing with his wife, Denise Brady, by his side.

Riley, a true blue Austinite, served on the City Council from 2009 to 2015, and his impact was profound. He advocated for urbanist policies, aimed at making downtown living more attractive and accessible, especially for those on foot or cycling. Having ditched his car years ago, he understood the importance of a vibrant, walkable city.

"It's time, and I'm ready to go. It's been such a wonderful, blessed life." - Chris Riley, reflecting on his life and impact on Austin.

Born and raised in the city he would later help shape, Riley was always one to forge his own path. As a teenager, he left high school to work as a page for U.S. Rep. J.J. Pickle in Washington, D.C., and later attended Harvard for his undergraduate degree. However, Austin remained his home, and he returned to attend law school at the University of Texas.

"He's incredibly thoughtful and ethical. And he really puts his money where his mouth is... He has beliefs, and then he lives his life according to those beliefs." - Carolyn Ostrom, longtime friend and attorney.

A Visionary Leaves His Mark

In May, Riley was honored by the City Council as they renamed a section of the Shoal Creek Trail as "Chris Riley Bend." This tribute recognized his tireless advocacy for reconnecting downtown Austin with the historic Shoal Creek Greenbelt.

His impact on the city's urban planning is undeniable. Riley was an early advocate for parking reform, better transit infrastructure, and making it easier to build accessory dwelling units. He embraced change and growth, and his vision helped shape a more welcoming, vibrant Austin.

"We're so lucky to be in this vibrant city, and we should be welcoming all these people that are coming here because they're making it more vibrant and more interesting." - Ben Leffler, former policy adviser to Riley.

Riley's dedication to his beliefs was evident in his graceful exit from the 2014 election. He withdrew from the race, citing his desire to avoid negativity and division, instead choosing to focus on the policies he championed.

In his final weeks, Riley reflected on his impact on the city, his relationships, and his response to hardship. He found meaning in his achievements, his love for his wife of 25 years, Brady, and the joy he exuded despite his illness.

"I've had all three opportunities to draw meaning in spades now, so I feel like it's been a very beautiful, satisfying happy life, and I'm ready to go. And I feel very blessed about all the opportunities that I've had and all the joy that I've had, so I can leave this world with a smile on my face. It's been great." - Chris Riley, on his legacy and outlook facing death.

Survivors

Chris Riley is survived by his wife, Denise Brady; his parents, Eva and Peter Riley; siblings, Joan Laves Reitblatt, Ken Riley, and Michael Riley; nieces and nephews, Susan Laves Mandel, Sarah Laves, Jake Laves, Charles Riley, Chris Riley, Augie Mandel, and Max Mandel; and a host of cherished friends.

Funeral arrangements are pending.

Rest in Power, Chris Riley

Austin bids farewell to a true progressive hero. Chris Riley's vision and dedication have left an indelible mark on the city, and his legacy will live on in the streets and communities he helped shape. May his memory inspire us to continue fighting for a more vibrant, inclusive, and accessible Austin.

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