The goal is to have the trail connections completed by 2036, establishing the Texas Bicentennial Trail, promoting Texas's rich historical and cultural heritage and enhancing economic development and outdoor recreation, according to the Great Springs Project plan updated in September.
What’s happening?
Utilizing urban and rural paths, the connections will run through Barton Springs, San Marcos Springs, Comal Springs and San Antonio Springs, creating a trail network from the Alamo to the State Capitol.
On April 8, Bexar County commissioners approved a resolution supporting the trail project, and during the 2025 Texas Legislature, HB 4230 was signed, establishing the trail.
According to a Sept. 18 news release, the bill was authored by State Representative Will Metcalf and State Senator Donna Campbell, and was supported by a wide range of chambers of commerce, agencies and organizations focused on economic development and transportation in the state.
“The Texas Bicentennial Trail from the Alamo to the State Capitol represents the greatness of our state and our rich historical and cultural heritage,” Campbell said in the release. “And recreational trails are a win-win for Texas by bringing tourist dollars to a region and providing for a more healthy Texas and health care savings for Texans.”
Key players
Municipalities and organizations across San Antonio are working to make the trail system a reality, approving key projects that will be connected with projects in neighboring communities.
The city of San Antonio, Bexar County, Schertz, Selma, Comal County, New Braunfels and other San Antonio metropolitan areas have each approved trail projects that lay the foundation for the Great Springs Project.
Schertz's Parks Director, Lauren Shrum, said the city is continuing work on two major projects that will connect to the larger system.
“The Great Springs Project is still working hard on the Texas Bicentennial Trail, and Schertz' Great Northern Trail and Dry Comal Creek Trail will be a part of that trail network,” she said. “The Dry Comal Creek Nature Park is still pending further design work and we hope to get that started later this fiscal year.”
Measuring the impact
Upon completion, the trail is expected to generate around $56 million in annual benefits.
While the trail will help generate revenue through economic impacts, it will also work towards conserving a large portion of the Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone, protecting a vital source of water to central Texas.
Overall, the project aims to be completed in time for the 200th anniversary of Texas, with a target completion date of Jan. 1, 2036.
San Antonio resident Rich Hernadez said he believes the trail system will be utilized by many residents and visitors who want more recreational activities to enjoy, without the need of spending money.
“I think a trail from [San Antonio] to Austin would be great for people who enjoy walking and biking,” he said. “A lot of people want to get outside and stay active, but some of these roads and trails can be a bit dangerous, so any improvement would be welcome.”
