Austin/ Transportation & Infrastructure
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Published on June 27, 2024
Austin to Start Construction of 'Wishbone' Pedestrian Bridge Over Lady Bird Lake in JulySource: dankeck, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Construction on the new Lady Bird Lake pedestrian bridge, a uniquely designed 'wishbone' style, is set to begin in Austin on July 1. The bridge, which is intended to enhance connectivity for pedestrians and cyclists, is part of a $25 million project that will link together Longhorn Shores, Holly Shores, and the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, according to FOX 7 Austin.

The city's initiative, which was first mentioned in a preliminary engineering report back in 2018, will see the start of actualization with necessary preparatory actions, such as fencing off the construction areas around Canterbury Park, Longhorn Shores, and Krieg Fields. Krieg Fields will remain accessible to the public during construction, however, the tunnel from Krieg Fields under Pleasant Valley Road will be closed, as reported by KXAN.

In the following week, from July 8, the daily rhythm of trail users will be disrupted, as parts of the area become inaccessible. Traffic changes will also be put into effect with eastbound vehicular traffic on Canterbury Street being closed off, shaping a new one-way flow westbound. Additionally, access to Canterbury Park will be restricted, with an unnamed peninsula near Holly Street also closed to the public.

Significant detours will affect those accustomed to the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail. From July 15, a rerouting will push northbound traffic along the east side of Pleasant Valley Road, after which, it will continue westbound along Canterbury Street and then head southbound down Pedernales and Holly Streets. Expected to last for 18 months, as per FOX 7 Austin, this deviation in daily trajectories embodies the city's greater ambition for improved mobility and connectivity. Capital Delivery Services has indicated that while the project is slated to be completed in Winter 2026, its timeline might adjust depending on weather conditions.

Austin-Transportation & Infrastructure