During construction, foot and bike traffic will be redirected through a series of detours. The first detour began in late July, and the second detour will be implemented Aug. 26.
What you need to know
Those who regularly enjoy the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail can expect to be rerouted over Waller Creek on the recently installed lattice bridge between the Austin Rowing Club and Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center along Lady Bird Lake.
The detour will remain in place for several months while the contractor tears down the existing pedestrian bridge. A third lattice bridge will be installed over Waller Creek, furthering the project's goal of increasing pedestrian east-west connections.
According to an update from the city, for safety of trail users, the entire route will be fenced on both sides, and a section of the trail will be covered for overhead protection.
Bicyclists and pedestrians are urged to use caution and slow down in the area, as traffic may need to stop for construction vehicles to cross the trail.
Those on bikes may also need to dismount along the trail in some spots, including the new Waller Creek bridge, the covered section and a sharp turn near the bridge.
Work hours are Monday through Friday 7 a.m.-7 p.m.
About the project
The second phase, known as The Confluence, will extend from Fourth Street to Lady Bird Lake. City documents state the 13-acre project will improve the ecology and water quality of Waller Creek, which is over 2,500 feet of waterway ending in Lady Bird Lake.
The entirety of the project will also create a continuous, off-street bike and pedestrian trail between the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike trail, and Fourth Street.
Plans for Phase 2 include:
- 1,550 new trees and plants
- Three suspension bridges
- 800-foot boardwalk under Cesar Chavez Street
- Biofiltration pond that uses organic filtration to remove pollutants and manage stormwater runoff
- Elevated walkway connecting Palm Park to the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail
- New Lagoon overlook and Leaf Deck adjacent to the lake
- Shaded Lakeview Terrace and Explorers Garden
- New connection to the creek at Fourth Street near Cypress Grove and Trailhead Plaza
The project is expected to be completed by spring 2026.
Residents can click here to receive construction updates related to The Confluence and more information on how to get involved with the project.
There are also other trail detours occurring along the Butler Trail related to construction of the Longhorn Dam Bridge. Keep up to date with a complete list of trail closures here.
