The details
The roughly 1-mile trail project adds to the larger Brushy Creek Regional Trail system that currently includes segments as far west as Twin Lakes in Cedar Park and as far east as SH 130 in Round Rock.
The Heritage Trail West segment will include both historical and recreational elements.
The design of the pedestrian bridge over Chisholm Trail Road “serves as a link between generations of Round Rock residents,” according to a city news release. The site was home to a similar bridge in the 1800s, providing a safe water crossing for wagons.
Visitors will be able to view the iconic “round rock” from viewing platforms on the bridge.
The city of Round Rock also commissioned artist Antonio Munoz to create up to 10 bronze statues to complement the historical information plaques planned for along the walking path.
Starting at Bathing Beach at Chisholm Trail Road and running to Mays Street, the project includes improvements to Bathing Beach Park, Chisholm Trail Crossing Park and Memorial Park.
Some context
The $19.5 million project originally began improvements in 2021. However, contractors in charge of overseeing the project later filed for bankruptcy and abandoned the project.
Attempts to rebid the project were initially unsuccessful. Patin Construction entered into a contract with the city in August 2022. The rebidding guidelines stated the new company would assume liability for the trail project, which was only about 20% complete.
Funding for this segment of trail comes partially from a 2013 voter-approved bond as well as $6.3 million in grant funding from the Texas Department of Transportation for increased bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure.
Also of note
Progress is also being made on portions of the Brushy Creek Regional Trail east of I-35, which includes a spiral trail ramp, creek overlooks and gathering spaces near Memorial Park, according to city documents.
Construction is underway for the Lake Creek Trail, a project approved by voters in a May 2023 bond package. This trail will connect Round Rock West Park to Centennial Plaza near downtown with a 10-foot-wide path, including a pedestrian I-35 underpass and a bridge over Lake Creek.
