Last public exit from Comal River to be renovated

At the conclusion of this summer’s river tourism season, work will begin on a $1.2 million renovation and update to the aging last public exit from the Comal River in New Braunfels. The exit is the last place on the river that tubers can exit.

The renovations will improve safety for city staff, park users and allow for Americans with Disabilities Act accessibility and compliance, according to city documents.

The takeaway

The New Braunfels Economic Development Corporation added the last public exit to its list of capital projects to support in 2022 and approved the $1.2 million expenditure at its April 18 meeting after reviewing a final design proposal from construction and engineering firm Freese & Nichols.

The New Braunfels City Council approved the EDC’s $1.2 million recommendation May 13 as well as a contract modification of $154,179 to Freese & Nichols for bidding and construction phase support.

The details

Some of the stairs will be replaced with additional steps and handrails will be replaced, according to city documents. A 12-foot-wide underwater landing will be added to aid in reducing the backup of tubers waiting to exit the river, which also could reduce city staff intervention.

Marker buoys for the landing and an ADA transfer system are also part of the plans, according to city documents.