A long-missing link in Houston’s trail network is set to be completed with a new stretch of the Buffalo Bayou Greenway connecting Joe Campos Torres Plaza downtown to the Heights Hike and Bike Trail. City officials aim to close a persistent north-side gap and create a continuous shared-use path for walkers and cyclists ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
The project is on this week’s City Council agenda, including an ordinance for an interlocal agreement with the Houston Parks Board to design and build the Austin Street–Runnels Street connector. If approved, the Parks Board would take the lead on the next steps, moving the project closer to construction, according to Houston Daily.
What The Ordinance Would Do
Under the proposed agreement, the Houston Parks Board would manage and fund all design, permitting, and construction costs for the Austin Street–Runnels Street connector, with construction expected to finish before the 2026 World Cup. The ordinance describes the project as "filling a critical gap in the Buffalo Bayou Greenway system and creating a safe and accessible trail connection along the north side of downtown," ensuring a continuous and accessible path for walkers and cyclists.
Because parts of the route run through Texas Department of Transportation rights-of-way, a separate agreement with TxDOT is required and is already in progress. Once the path opens, the city will take over maintenance duties, with no major impact expected on operating costs, as reported by Houston Chronicle.
Where It Fits In The Bayou Greenways Network
The connector fills a downtown missing link in the broader Bayou Greenways initiative, a public-private effort that aims to create roughly 150 miles of connected trails across Houston, according to Houston Parks Board. A city map shows 26.9 miles of paved trails currently open, about 17 percent of the 150-mile target. The new stretch would add continuity to the trail system, as per Arcgis.
Timeline And Next Steps
City Council is slated to vote on the ordinance on Wednesday. If it passes, the Houston Parks Board would be authorized to move into design and permitting for the project. The overall schedule still depends on completing the TxDOT agreement and any remaining construction notices, as reported by the Houston Chronicle.
For riders, commuters and downtown businesses, the connector promises safer and more direct access across the north side of downtown and a smoother link to parks and venues. Keep an eye out for official timelines and any detour notices from the Houston Parks Board and the city as the project moves from paper to pavement.
