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prepared by RVi VISION PLAN VISION The October 2008 October

The Trail at Vision Plan , September 2008

Prepared for The Trail Foundation by RVi

www.thetrailfoundation.org

Table of Contents

1 Statement of Purpose 1 2 Overview 3 3 Site Analysis 10 4 Programming 25 5 Workshop 27 6 Goals 30 7 Vision Plan 31 8 Acknowledgments 49

TOC Statement of Purpose

The Trail Foundation Formed in May 2003, The Trail Foundation pursues its mission to protect and enhance the scenic hike and bike trail that shadows Lady Bird Lake, created by the as it flows through Austin, Texas. The Foundation takes donations of funds and volunteer labor from concerned individuals, organizations and corporations and puts them to work to assure the Trail at Lady Bird Lake remains one of the most natural and well-maintained hike and bike paths in the .

The Trail Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit corporation. In coordination with the City of Austin and its Parks and Recreation Department, The Trail Foundation executes strategic improvements that enable Trail lovers to have ownership in and involvement with the Trail that sustains them.

The Trail Foundation also consults with many outside institutions, organizations, and individuals with whom they share common goals including the City of Austin, the Austin Parks Board, the Austin Parks Foundation, the Austin Parks and Recreation Department, and other civic and environmental organizations. Through these relationships, the foundation aggressively advocates on behalf of the Trail and trail users for a wide variety of improvements and enhancements to the Trail experience. Miro Rivera Restroom Lou Neff Point retaining wall Recent Trail Foundation projects include: • Lou Neff Point Widening and Restoration • Miro Rivera Restroom • Zilker Bluffs Tree Grove

Zilker Bluffs planting berms 1 Statement of Purpose

The Vision Plan This Vision Plan will help guide The Trail Foundation as they pursue their mission to expand, beautify, improve and maintain the Trail. The Vision Plan is: • Community driven - the community is the expert • A set of goals and guiding principles • An opportunity for broader, creative thinking and new possibilities • A framework for future projects

A Vision Plan is not a master plan proscribing how, where and when improvements must be implemented. Instead, it provides the community-based goals and envisions a number ways that those goals may be achieved. RVi: Celebrating 25 years In 2007, Austin-based RVi Planning+ Landscape Architecture + Graphic Design sought to commemorate its 25th anniversary with a volunteer community project that drew on its deep knowledge of and its three decades of experience designing outdoor spaces that enhance the human experience. The firm invited The Trail Foundation to share its needs and dreams for the city’s crown jewel, the Trail at Lady Bird Lake. The idea for a Vision Plan was born. Between December 2007 and September 2008, RVi professionals volunteered more than 900 hours toward creating this Vision Plan. It is RVi’s gift to the community in honor of its 25 years of business in Austin. Its goal is to enable The Trail Foundation to visualize how the Trail may serve the growing Austin community for future generations.

2 Overview

Overview Lady Bird Lake (known for many decades as Town Lake) is the last of seven flood control dammed segments of the Lower Colorado River. The reservoir is five miles long and has over 400 acres of water surface, formed in 1960 by the construction of at its eastern boundary by the City of Austin. The western end of the lake is bounded by , built in 1939. The reservoir was envisioned from the beginning as a recreational venue for the city. A system of hike and bike was built along the shoreline of the lake in the 1970s, establishing Lady Bird Lake as a major recreational attraction.

At 10.1 miles long, the Trail stretches along the banks of Lady Bird Lake and is one of the oldest urban hike and bike trails in Texas. It is maintained by the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department. In partnership with the City, The Trail Foundation provides private support and oversight for strategic enhancements.

Before 1971, the shoreline of then-Town Lake was mostly a mixture of weeds, unkempt bushes and trash. Some concerned Austinites tried to clean up the lake, but the effort was only partly successful. In 1971, the City of Austin created the Town Lake Beautification Project and appointed as the project’s honorary chairman. Johnson’s involvement brought lots of attention and funding (including $19,000 of her own) to the Town Lake project, allowing for the planting of hundreds of shrubs and trees and the completion of the hike and bike trail from the fragmented construction that had been done until that time.

3 Overview

Trail History

Building the Dams The Trail’s history begins with the succession of dams built to control flooding of the Colorado River as it flowed through Austin.

Regular floods were common in the Hill Country west of Austin. Flooding upstream meant that the Colorado River would swell and rise in Austin. From 1890 to 1893, Austin labored to build its first dam west of the city where today’s Tom Miller Dam is located. The Great Granite Dam was a short-lived source of pride for the city, however, as it soon washed away in a flood.

This became the norm for Austin dams as the 1912 Austin Dam and up to five additional dams were washed away by seasonal flooding. Successive bridge failures were disastrous to the city.

Finally, in 1939 the current Tom Miller Dam was completed and has stood the test of time and water ever since.

The 1960 construction of Longhorn Dam east of Austin created a true impoundment of the Colorado River and formed Town Lake, now known as Lady Bird Lake.

Electric streetcar washed out on blvd.. The current Tom Miller Dam to the west at the top of Lady Bird Lake, built in 1940

Water flowing over the Austin dam A house spills over the dam with the raging river in 1935. The current Longhorn Dam to the east, at the bottom of Lady Bird Lake

4 The Beginnings of a Trail In 1971, the Town Lake Beautification Committee was formed. In cooperation with Mayor Roy Butler, it set a goal to create a scenic corridor of hiking trails and landscaping to give residents and visitors a rural escape in an urban setting. Many notable Austin citizens served on the committee including Honorary Chair Lady Bird Johnson, Les Gage, Ann Butler, Carolyn Curtis, Emma Long, and Jim Pfluger. Lou Neff Point Gazebo The committee was integral in the development of a master plan, including the layout, initial plantings, and the dedication of two gazebos that remain on the Trail today. In recognition of Lady Bird Johnson’s vision and service to its cause, the City of Austin renamed Town Lake in honor of the former first lady shortly after her death in 2007.

“Here in Austin I worked on a project on the riverfront where the Lower Colorado River flows right through our town... The Austin Parks and Recreation Department had already, a year or two before we came back in ’69, told me about their hopes to build a parkway along the banks of the river, which at that time was neglected. Part of it had been a trash dump, part a gravel pit, all of it was just overgrown with rank weeds and unattended and unloved but potentially a beautiful place. We spent about five busy years raising funds. The general idea was that we wanted to have a succession 1959 1971 of native, indigenous, hardy, blooming shrubs along the riverfront with a hike-and-bike trail and some picnic tables…what it is really used for now is running. This town is mad about running.”

-Lady Bird Johnson Trail Founder

2008 2008 5 Overview

“What will the Trail look like in another 30 years?”

Seaholm Power Plant area Fannie Davis Town Lake Gazebo Railroad Bridge area

1964 1971 1975

2008 2008 2008 6 Heart of the (Growing) City In 2008, the Trail at Lady Bird Lake is one of the most well-traveled recreational areas in Austin. Its usage increases as Austin’s population booms. The Trail owes its growing popularity to its size, scenery and versatility.

The Trail attracts groups. Runners, cyclists, commuters, and dog-walkers take to the Trail alone and in large groups, from stroller mom workouts and marathon training teams to professional dog trainers and high school students getting to school.

The Trail is becoming ’s “front yard.” With nearly two dozen residential developments completed or under construction in and near downtown, the Trail becomes these residents’ place to socialize, play, exercise and retreat. The Trail also connects these residents to restaurants, galleries, shopping and museums. As a commuter link, it brings more and more people to its paths.

The Trail and its adjoining parks support huge cultural events all year round. , Auditorium Shores and Fiesta Gardens host many music festivals, seasonal holiday attractions, and sporting events that rely on the Trail system.

Central Texas expects to continue seeing extraordinary growth. According to the Chamber of Commerce, metro Austin’s population grew to more than 1.5 million in 2006. An Austin Business Journal study predicts the metro area will be home to 7.8 million residents in 2050. Austin Downtown To accommodate that projected growth and maintain its reputation as one of Austin’s natural crown jewels, the Trail and its adjoining parks need public and Emerging Projects private support to maintain, preserve and strengthen their existence. Spring 2008

POPULATION 1980 2008 2030 City of Austin 263,000 751,000 1,121,000

Downtown 3,000 6,000 25,000(by 2020)

DEMOGRAPHICS 1980 2010 2020 Anglo 78% 45% 40% Hispanic 18% 34% 37.5% Black 11% 8% 7% Asian 2% 6.5% 8.5%

7 Overview

“A park was never an ornamental addition to a city but an integral part of its fabric, and a force for future growth on several levels – economic, social and cultural.” -Frederick Law Olmsted, Sr.

The Benefits of Urban Parks Social Benefits • Fights obesity epidemic by increasing frequency of exercise • Offers physical and psychological health improvements • Provides play and recreation opportunities • Reduces juvenile crime rate in urban areas • Creates stable neighborhoods, strong communities Economic Benefits • Attracts and retains businesses and residents • Reduces fossil fuel consumption • Stabilizes and increases property values Environmental Benefits • Mitigates air and water pollution • Fights sprawl by improving the livability of the city • Preserves wildlife habitat • Cools urban heat island • Controls storm water runoff

“Green oases and neighborhood parks within cities offer a promise. If people in humdrum jobs, in drab buildings, surrounded by noise and confusion, know they can move out of all that into areas of serene beauty and quiet, even for a brief time each day, they can better cope with conditions that may bring them to the breaking point.” -Lady Bird Johnson Trail Founder 8 Creating a Vision The Planning Process

Site Analysis

Programming

Workshop

Goals

Vision Plan

9 Site Analysis Site Analysis

The Trail in Layers A Vision Plan needs a foundation, and RVi created this foundation through a thoughtful analysis of opportunities and constraints facing the Trail. Because the goal is a Vision Plan, rather than a master plan, this analysis drew primarily on general geography (illustrated here as a series of layers), more than 24 hours of on-site observations, previously documented reports and studies, and experiential knowledge from many stakeholders. The geographic foundation, combined with the qualitative and secondary research, define the unique character of the Trail system. Together they inform and influence the Vision Plan. PROPOSED TRAILS

EXISTING TRAILS

CITY PARKS

LADY BIRD LAKE & CREEKS

PRINCIPAL CITY STREETS & CULTURAL POINTS OF INTEREST

10 RVi: Detailed surveyors To build the foundation for the Vision Plan, RVi dedicated its entire staff to an exciting and explorative site analysis: a week-long scavenger hunt. The staff ’s mission was to explore the Trail thoroughly and record observations and findings through maps, photos, quotes and a group presentation. RVi divided the Trail into three zones -- West, Central and East -- based on the location of landmark dividers and general character of Trail sections (see page 15).

In teams of two, RVi staff reconnected with the Trail on their own feet and through their own professional eyes as designers, planners and artists. They took pictures; asked questions. They collected souvenirs and recorded discoveries. Each team was asked to find the Trail’s “missed opportunities,” those spaces along the Trail that are not reaching their potential. They surveyed the entire 10 mile loop to see how people are using and interacting with this natural area in the middle of the city.

• Where are you? • How often do you use the Trail? • What sections of the Trail do you use most? • What does the Trail mean to you? • What are your favorite activities to do at the Trail? • What was the best event that you’ve attended that was located along the Trail (ex: concert at Auditorium Shores)? • If you could change one thing about the Trail, what would it be?

11 Site Analysis

12 A sample of our findings

13 Site Analysis

14 Exploring the Trail The Trail was divided into three zones based on the location of landmark dividers West Zone and general character of trail sections. 1. West Zone - MoPac Bridge to Railroad Trestle

Mopac 2. Central Zone - Railroad Trestle to IH-35 Bridge

3. East Zone - IH-35 Bridge to Longhorn Dam Central Zone Zilker Park

City Hall Railroad

Butler Park MACC East Zone

Holly Power IH-35 Dam Longhorn Longhorn

15 Site Analysis

Mapping the Exploration As RVi explored the Trail, sections within each zone presented unique experiences and characteristics, which staff captured with words and phrases illustrated here. This word-connotation mapping represents diverse feelings and impressions. Teams immediately recognized the necessity of preserving the complexity of experiences found along the 10.1 mile trail. But word-mapping also revealed the disparity of the Trail experience from west to east. The eastern half of the Trail is used less, has End of the Line fewer amenities and has more disconnections. Convenient Community Mature Cypress Heart of the City Tree Lined Worn Home School Commuting Prominent Popular Traffic Jam Rush Hour Artistic Metropolitan Well-Used Eroded Manicured Green Long Distance Memorialized Neighborhood Homeless Encampments Confining Diverse Events Locked bathrooms Renewal Junior High Laboratory History Visual Links Shady Senior Citizens Confusing Foreign Natural Nature Relaxing Colorful Wide Open Spaces Wild Graffiti See & Be Seen Pick-up games Beautification needed Pastoral Picnicking Hidden Tunnel Austin’s Front Yard Bucolic Harsh Poor Water Quality Promise of Boardwalk Rural

Smoggy Isolated Long-Loopers Empty

Hot Hard Quiet Forgotten Missed Connections Road Less Traveled

The Trail Grassy & Open Vegetation Boardwalk

Hard Built Edge Medium Density Vegetation Trailhead

Parking Dense Tree Cover Vegetation Views

16 West Zone

End of the Line

Community Convenient

Mopac Mature Cypress Worn Tree Lined School Commuting

Traffic Jam Popular Eroded Zilker Park Memorialized

Lamar

Pfluger Well-Used Railroad Diverse Confining Visual Links Nature History Butler Park See & Be Seen The Trail Grassy & Open Vegetation Boardwalk

Hard Built Edge Medium Density Vegetation Trailhead

Parking Dense Tree Cover Vegetation Views 17 Site Analysis

West Zone Summary Views on the Trail The western zone of the Trail extends east from the MoPac highway bridge (Loop 1) to the railroad trestle just east of S. Lamar Boulevard. This three-mile path is the most intensely used section with two major trailheads and many secondary entry points. The Trail is neighbored by Stephen F. Austin High School, a variety of sports fields, the YMCA, Butler Shores and Zilker Park. Two pedestrian bridges, the Roberta Crenshaw Bridge under the MoPac highway and the Pfluger Bridge east of Lamar Street, are important connectors and gathering areas. Two spoke trails connect to this western zone. The urbanized Johnson Creek Greenbelt extends north from the MoPac Trailhead. Through Zilker Park, the ecologically significant nature trail winds southward. Protected from vehicular traffic Close to urban access Distant city views Newly planted trees at Zilker Bluffs The best concentration of vegetation along the Trail is found in this well-shaded western zone. Very large cypress trees line the shoreline and Zilker Park preserves Favored Destination Spots mature live oaks, junipers and pecans. The aquatic vegetation provides habitat for migrant and wintering birds. The marsh-like water zone at Johnson Creek is an important nesting area for ducks and herons. A colony of naturalized monk parakeets have been observed near Zilker Park along with a wide variety of songbirds, kingfishers, hummingbirds and cliff swallows.

The western zone is heavily used and often crowded. The trailhead under the north end of the MoPac bridge is a popular gathering area for many kinds of groups such as exercise classes and community activists. A public small craft launch and a club provide access to the water.

Lou Neff Point - intimate overlook Trailhead stretching & water area Pfluger Bridge - resting point and view A walking connection to the trail Opportunities for Improvement

Upgrade important trailheads Buffer trail from traffic Improve spoke trail connections High traffic volume = prevalent erosion 18 Central Zone Heart of the City Home City Hall Artistic Metropolitan Rush Hour Prominent

Manicured Green

First

South Auditorium Shores Congress Renewal Butler Park Events Shady MACC Wide Open Spaces

Austin’s Front Yard Beautification needed

Promise of Boardwalk IH-35 IH-35

Smoggy

The Trail Grassy & Open Vegetation Boardwalk

Hard Built Edge Medium Density Vegetation Trailhead

Parking Dense Tree Cover Vegetation Views 19 Site Analysis

Central Zone Summary Views on the Trail The central zone extends eastward from the railroad trestle to IH-35. This section is diverse. The northern side neighbors Austin’s emerging downtown and the evolving Rainey Street neighborhood. On the south side, the new Butler Park, Auditorium Shores and the Long & Parmer Event Centers bring many events to the Trail. Large hotels and manicured landscapes occur on both sides. The Trail leaves the lake edge and follows Riverside Drive for approximately 1.5 miles. This section, known as the Riverside Gap, will be replaced one day with a boardwalk providing a needed connection and the opportunity for a different trail experience over the water. On the north side, two spoke trails connect to this central zone. The Shoal Creek Trail extends to 38th Street. The Waller Creek Trail travels through downtown to Waterloo Park, Symphony Square and the University of Texas Surrounded by city but very natural Distant city views Beautiful overlook of lake and surrounding area campus. Both creek corridors and their trails are undergoing flood control and trail improvements. The Cesar Chavez Esplanade will parallel the Trail from San Favored Destination Spots Antonio to Congress Avenue along the street edge.

This trail zone is the most dominated by the built environment and has some of the narrowest shoreline. The natural areas at the creek outfalls become the most precious areas to preserve and enhance the environment.

The central trail zone is the city’s front yard, where the community celebrates. It is often the first and most lasting impression for visitors. The free-tailed bat colony under the Congress Avenue bridge is the largest urban bat colony in North America and has become a most spectacular and unusual tourist attraction. Auditorium Shores hosts dozens of concerts and special events each year. Variety of fishing opportunities Well-used stretching area The frontyard: hub of dogs and people Opportunities for Improvement

Conceal utilities Narrow and limited sight-distance Important but confusing city link Under-utilized under-bridge space 20 East Zone

Natural Long Distance Locked bathrooms

Longhorn Dam Homeless EncampmentsForeign Confusing Wild Claimed by the Neighborhood Holly Power Senior Citizens Plant Graffiti Junior High Laboratory Pastoral Picnicking Pick-up games Fiesta Gardens Hidden Tunnel Poor Water Quality Relaxing Bucolic

Colorful Harsh

IH-35

Rural

Isolated Long-Loopers Hot Empty Hard Missed Connections Quiet Forgotten The Trail Grassy & Open Vegetation Boardwalk Hard Built Edge Medium Density Vegetation Trailhead

Road Less Traveled Parking Dense Tree Cover Vegetation Views 21 Site Analysis

East Zone Summary Views on the Trail The east zone extends from IH-35 to Longhorn Dam and Pleasant Valley Road. This section of the Trail is the least used, has fewer amenities and leaves the lake edge in two areas. Along the north side, the Trail runs through Festival Beach and Fiesta Gardens. The trail leaves the water’s edge at the decommissioned Holly Power Plant, detouring through the Comacho Activity Center, neighborhood streets and Metz Park. The city is currently in the planning stages for the Holly Shores area which will include realigning the Trail near the lake. The Trail crosses over Longhorn Dam and follows the shoreline to Lakeshore Drive. The Trail then leaves the lake again and runs along Riverside Drive. This streetside section will be replaced by the mostly overwater Riverside Boardwalk in the future. Trail bordered by trees and water Lots of fishing opportunities Neighborhood detour Views of Holly Power Plant The east zone includes some of the most beautiful areas and best views along the Trail. Two lagoons and several docks offer quiet fishing areas. It connects to Favored Destination Spots Kreig Fields and the developing Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Park through a tunnel passing under Pleasant Valley Road at Longhorn Dam. A future spoke trail connection to the new Country Club Creek trail will be possible at the corner of Lakeshore Drive and Pleasant Valley Road.

Access to water Picnic stop Exotic palm trees add interest The gazebo at water Opportunities for Improvement

Improve connection to Kreig Fields Cleanup of debris and trash, regular upkeep Complete the boardwalk Trail route unclear 22 Resources and Research

Over the past four decades, the Trail and its surroundings have been documented, 40.00 Entrance use by volume studied, and planned repeatedly. This Vision Plan has drawn upon a wide variety of resources and research. The following studies and plans were reviewed: • Town Lake Corridor Study The Town Lake Task Force, 1985 30.00 • Town Lake Park Comprehensive Plan Johnson, Johnson & Roy Inc., 1987 • Waterfront Overlay District Setbacks • Austin Town Lake Corridor Study 20.00 Prepared by ROMA Design Group, 2000 •

Town Lake Trail User Survey Percentage Prepared by Austin PARD, 2003 • Approaches to Public Art for Town Lake Park 10.00 Submitted by Gail M. Goldman Associates, 2003 • Town Lake Trail Beautification Plan Town Lake Trail Foundation, 2006 • Riverside Boardwalk Investment Study-Completing the Town Lake Trail 0.00 Town Lake Trail Foundation, prepared by SEC Planning, Inc., Sept. 2007 Other IH-35 • Every Town Needs a Trail: Lady Bird Johnson’s Quiet Legacy YMCA Metz Park Lakeshore Statesman Deep Eddy

Jen Ohlson, 2007 High Austin Nature Center Nature Butler Shores Festival Beach Festival Camacho Center Camacho Auditorium Shores Auditorium Entrances

Activities Fishing 0.07 2003 PARD Trail User Survey Transportation 0.07 The Parks and Recreation Department of Austin conducted a user survey of the People Watch/ Socialize 1.07 Town Lake Trail in 2003. The following illustrations highlight some of the most relevant findings. There is considerable data and detail available from the survey, Nature Walk 0.99 but we have simplified the information for this report.

Key findings from the survey that influenced the Vision Plan include: Baby Carriage 1.78 • Where people accessed the Trail Walk a dog 6.39 • What kind of activities they pursued • When they used the Trail Bike 8.03 • What ages and genders most used the Trail Run 50.43 • What were perceived (and real) conflicts of users Walk 31.18

23 Would You Volunteer

Yes 70%

No 30%

Site Analysis

Trail Use by Time of Day Trail use by time of day Age Range Age<16 Range 17-21 Do Doyou YouDo haveYou Have Have Conflicts conflictsConflicts with Other Other Userswith Users other users? Improvement Suggestions under 16 17-21 ImprovementMore Suggestions 51+ No No Evening 1% 6% Evening 27% 51+ 1% 6% No 27% 73% Restrooms 19%19% 22-30 73% More Restrooms Sep. TrailsSeperate for Trails Bikers for Biker & Do& You12% Feel12% Safe on the Trail?More Waterfountains 15% Morning 47% More Waterfountains 24% Runners Yes 22-30 10% 15% 24% Runners 10% 93% Morning 47% Trail Use by Time of Day ReduceReduce Overcrowding Expand Trail 9% 10% Extend Trail 9% Evening Overcrowding 10% 27% 41-50 41-50 Age Range 25% 25% MoreMore Parking Parking Lots Lots 2% Afternoon under 16 17-21 1% 6% 2% 17% 51+ Morning Afternoon 17% 19% More Trailside Facilities 47% More Trailside Facilities 6% 31-4031-40 Yes 27% 6% Mid-day 25% More Mutt Mitts Mid-day9% 9% 22-30 Yes Other 25% 4% 24% 27% Other 24%24% Reduce BikeMore Speeding Mutt Mitts 4% 3% Increase Ordinance Yes EnforcementReduce Bike Speeding 3% 27% More Shade 3% Afternoon Increase Ordinance 17% Gender No More Shade Structures or Structures7% or Trees Trees 2% Trail Use by Day of the Week 41-50 Enforcement 3% Mid-day 25% 9% 2% Weekdays 20% Types of Conflicts female 31-40 45% 25%

Speeding Bikers 56%

male Running Group 55% 10% Trail useTrail Useby by day Day of of the weekWeek Gender TypesTypes of conflictsof Conflicts Safety SuggestionsSafety Suggestions Weekdays Gender Speeding Bikers 20% Add Lighting Weekdays 20% Speeding Bikers Are You Visiting? Weekends Add61% Lighting 61% Both 18% Female 56%56% Running Group 62% Yes Other 10% 10% 45% 14% Running Group

female 10% 45% Is Signage Along Trail Adequate? Uncontrolled Dogs Male 20%

Weekends male55% 55% Other 14% Weekends18% IncreaseIncrease Police Police Patrols Patrols Both 18% 20% 62% Other Yes 14% 20% Both 62% 79%

Prevent Parking Theft Uncontrolled Dogs Other Preventing2% Parking Theft 2% Uncontrolled Dogs 20%20% Other 17%17% No 21%

No 90%

Trail Use by Number of People Would You Volunteer Trail use by number of people Is Signage AlongIs Signage Along The Trail Adequate?Trail Adequate? SignageSignage Suggestions Suggestions Would You Volunteer? With Another With Another Person ImprovedImprove Directional Directional Signs 37% OtherOther 10% Signs 10% 11%11% Person 37% Yes 70% With a Group More Signage More Signage 7% 7% 8%With A Group Yes 8% 70% Yes 79%Yes Post Etiquette Rules 79% Post Etiquette8% Rules Improve Mile Markers Improve25% Mile Markers No 8% No 25% 30% No No 21%21% MoreMore Trail Trail Maps Maps 14% 14%

Make Signs Easier to More Info on Signs Make ReadSigns Easier to More Info13% on Signs Read 12% Alone 13% Alone 55%55% Improvement Suggestions

More Restrooms Seperate Trails for Biker & 12% Runners More Waterfountains 10% 15% Signage Suggestions 24 Improved Directional Reduce Overcrowding 10% Extend Trail Other Signs 9% 10% 11%

More Signage 7% More Parking Lots Post Etiquette Rules 2% 8% Improve Mile Markers More Trailside Facilities 25% 6% Other More Mutt Mitts 24% 4% Reduce Bike Speeding 3% Increase Ordinance More Trail Maps Enforcement 14% 3% More Shade Structures or Trees Make Signs Easier to 2% More Info on Signs Read 13% 12% Programming

Prioritizing the Needs Being inspirational Programming is a process of defining the needs and wishes of users and prioritizing them in a plan or exercise. Today the Trail is quite successful in Meditating its ability to accommodate many recreational activities, cultural and recreation facilities, and events. These uses overlap and coincide with one another harmoniously with rarely a problem. Practicing guitar

Using the Trail Kayaking Although physical activities (running, walking, biking) dominate the Trail’s use, the 2003 Trail User Survey by the Austin Parks & Recreation Department (PARD) indicated very few conflicts. In fact, the wide variety of activities -- or layers of Dog swimming use -- enriches the Trail experience and provides enjoyable spaces for practically everyone. Many activities rely on one another for their very existence (e.g., people watching). The Trail’s many “program layers” are illustrated on the next pages. Feeding ducks These layers of use are the essence of the Trail. Collectively, they create a vibrant public space where people engage with each other and the outdoors in the shadow of the city. Relaxing

As Austin grows, Trail users will indirectly place more pressure on it to meet their needs and desires. Some areas of the Trail will need to be expanded to handle this increased use. Underutilized and neglected spaces will need to be evaluated and Taking flight planned for future potential. Working

Exploring/ enjoying wildlife

Enjoying the event from the lake

25 Programming

Driving By/ Biking View from Above

Running Sitting Studying Walking Dog Walking Baby Stroller Playing

Exercising Climbing trees/ Training Family Relaxing

Picnic Resting Gathering

People Watching Commuting Waiting Fishing

26 Workshop

Engaging the Public Trail Vision Plan Workshop In preparing a Vision Plan, the community is the expert. Public input was a vital Mexican American Cultural Center • April 24, 2008 • 6:00 pm part of RVi’s design process. The firm used a workshop format to gather input and ideas from a broad cross-section of citizens who know and use the Trail in different ways. The Trail Foundation invited stakeholders from across the city to participate; Table Discussion Guide about 40 individuals attended the two-hour workshop held at the Mexican American Cultural Center in April 2008. (You don’t have to answer all these questions!)

After a brief presentation outlining the process and purpose of the Vision Plan, 1. What primary purpose or function does this trail segment serve today? How should that purpose change the stakeholders divided into three groups corresponding with the Trail’s three in 25 years? (See also question 2.) zones. Each group selected a speaker to lead the table discussions and a scribe to 2. We tend to think of the trail as recreational, but it also can or does provide other functions. For your seg- record the results. The Table Discussion Guide included 10 questions, and the ment, please rank (or strike) these functions in importance, for 2030: groups were given one hour to arrive at consensus answers for as many questions as a. Recreational (walking, running, biking, rowing, dog walking, etc.) desired. After one hour, the speakers delivered their responses to the entire group. b. Social (interacting with friends and strangers, seeing and being seen) The results are summarized in the “Discussion Summary” on the following page. In c. Conservation/preservation (of natural resource) addition to the workshop, representatives from the E. Cesar Chavez Neighborhood d. Reserve (land banking for extra capacity) e. Ornamentation (providing beauty) Planning Team were interviewed and their responses incorporated into the f. Transportation (getting somewhere) Discussion Summary. All participants are named in the Acknowledgments section g. Education/interpretation (explaining/understanding the resource) of this Vision Plan. h. Cultural (concerts, fireworks, etc.) i. Other

3. Specifically where and how can we enhance the habitat areas and natural aspects (the conservation/ preservation functions) of this segment of the trail?

4. Can the trail remain central to recreation in Austin? Should it? Can we serve twice as many users when the population doubles? Is “crowdedness” a benefit?

5. Do we need to increase the capacity of this segment? More of the same users or different users? How can we increase the capacity? (e.g., lighting, parking, wider or separate trails, restrooms, showers, tech- nology, other “infrastructure”)

6. How would you rank the current maintenance of this segment of the trail? Are there specific areas that should be focused on to receive higher maintenance? What maintenance suggestions do you have?

7. Should there be more (or fewer) opportunities to privatize the functions of this segment? (e.g., rental kiosks for bikes or strollers; concessions for sunscreen, Gatorade, umbrellas; adopt-a-trail sponsors with advertising; fishing tournaments, etc.) What are the pros and cons?

8. How should proposals for change be evaluated? Should some existing activities be removed or discour- aged? New ones encouraged?

9. How can we endow the trail? Can we make it self-supporting, not subject to the uncertainties of annual municipal budgeting? (e.g., private sources, donation boxes, fees, bonds, special district, merchandising, etc.)

10. Other.

27 Workshop

Trail Vision Plan Discussions Summary Invited Stakeholders Workshop • April 24, 2008 Mayor’s Office • May 1, 2008 ECC Neighborhood Planning Team • May 8, 2008 Discussion Summary

How to Primary Uses Primary Uses Can trail meet expected Areas to Enhance Funding Hotbed Issue Opinion of Privatization Consider Today 2030 growth? What needs to Natural Habitat Options change? Change

• Balancing nature and • High recreational use (due • Whole recreational system NO. • Signage/interpretation throughout • Carefully • Choose carefully to to simple loops & parking) should expand up the creeks & wildlife opportunities • Expand with more loops & better connectivity • Monitor carefully promote trail use and with intense use to educate users and protect native • Nature enjoyment westward to relieve pressure (Nature Center, Johnson Creek) species • Rentals are OK (especially enjoy Texas improve habitat • Conservation • People already running elsewhere Rowing Center) West • Educational interpretive • Parking limited, • Signage should be kept at a minimum wildlife signage • Trail too impacted by high use

• City front door/front yard • Recreation • Boardwalk will NO. • Under bridges • Negative • Reference or improve • Where the community significantly change this • Achieve connectivity through boardwalk • Creek outfalls upon previous use celebrates • Commuting • Do not make the Trail like the SA River Walk • Expanded cultural zone • Upper and lower paths • Bat colony • No new concessions studies • Face to visitors/first • Healthy Trees for the Trail impression of the city • Conservation Center • Commuting • Restoration • Cultural (long, dougherty, mac)

• Recreational usage less • Will become similar to high- • Holly Power Plant: YES. • Preserve open areas already existing (only long loopers) use zone Many possibilities for • Develop this area from lessons learned in more • Maintain habitat near Holly, Snake • Could be positive if well-planned • Must ensure eastside • Highly used by local • Thoughtfully enhance event/ redevelopment, need used areas Island • Need the amenities other zones enjoy. neighborhoods are well neighborhoods gathering space community input • Create shorter loop opportunities • Improve water quality and usability • Privatization could reduce trash (greater represented • Large open spaces good for • Conservation • Also consider • Greater potential to grow within the Trail and at Fiesta Gardens responsibility) & should reflect and serve local • How to balance East group gathering • Greater connectedness redevelopment effects on create better connections • “meaty” shoreline throughout neighborhoods, especially seniors and children neighborhood needs • School commuting and (boardwalk, holly, kreig) the Lagoon (floating stage) • Create a large park at Fiesta Gardens • Maintain greater connection to • No naming rights or “adopt-a” sponsors and goals with overall classes • More amenities to meet • Adding dog parks (city for/ • Greater connectivity to rest of trail (boardwalk) water, areas of quiet development of the trail - • Homeless camps expectations of growing/ neighborhoods against) • Develop more Trailheads a city asset. changing area & satisfy • Preserve area history- Legends Trail neighbors • Adopt-a-section • Recreation, • Maintain the trail as a natural respite from • Conservation • Endowment for the city education, maintenance • Ornamentation • Keep back the urban edge • Cultural or expansion Overall • Organized volunteers Trail • TIF • Tax-overlay district • $650/unit parkland dedication fee

28 29 Goals Vision Plan

Why a Vision Plan? 1 Enhance the Trail 2 Expand the Trail The beauty and popularity of the Hike & Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake is one of Austin’s great success stories. Only 35 years ago the lake and its shores were devoid Maintain and enhance the natural environment Improve linkages of quality vegetation. Today it boasts miles of well-traveled paths, shade trees, • shelters, water fountains and grassy lawns. It has become a treasured destination of the Trail Improve connections to spoke trails • for more than one million Central Texans and visitors. The once-dusty city stream Build on the “Healthy Trees for the Trail” program corridor was transformed into one of Austin’s most beloved natural assets through • Add trailheads the vision and efforts of innumerable community leaders. Identify focus areas in which to continue addressing reforestation, invasive management, ecological To ensure the continued success of the Trail at Lady Bird Lake, its stakeholders restoration and wildlife management Increase trail mileage must evaluate and anticipate its place in Austin’s urban fabric for the next 30 years. • • Add trail eastward and westward The Vision Plan allows the community and Trail stakeholders to step away from Create visual and physical access to the water • their roles of using and maintaining the Trail and to envision all of its possibilities. Expand the trail within itself Through this Vision Plan process, RVi invited stakeholders to ask big questions: Encourage continued layers of use • Define ADA accessible routes • Where should we enhance and expand the Trail? • Maintain multi-purpose destinations • How do we make it safer, more accessible, more attractive? • Expand the day • How may we involve the community to support and enhance the Trail? Balance active and passive recreation • • • How do we ensure that its quality endures and improves as its popularity Small, intimate spaces within larger open spaces Extend usable trail hours increases? • Improve the gathering spaces and amenities Create new landmarks through art, gathering areas In the Vision Plan, the community is the expert. Its goals are a mirror of their priorities and concerns. The concepts detailed in this Vision Plan are presented as Develop a cohesive trail signage system ideas for supporting those goals. They are not a proscribed master plan. Instead, • they exist to inspire creativity and resourcefulness. They show the community what Create a complete trail wayfinding system 3 Support the Trail is possible given the realities of an urban watershed. Ultimately, the Vision Plan • Create opportunities for learning and enrichment is grounded in geographical and environmental reality and creates a platform for Create a management plan discovering visionary opportunities. • Set high standards • Identify and address trash sources and zones requiring a higher maintenance level • Identify additional sources of man-power/groups to work with

Find a consistent funding mechanism

Identify particular organizations and neighborhood groups for implementation

30 Vision Plan Vision Goals and Opportunities

Expand the Trail

Increase trail mileage Opportunities to increase trail mileage occur to the east, west and within the trail itself. For example, the Trail may extend westward beyond Eilers Park and Deep Eddy Swimming Pool with the possible redevelopment of the University of Texas Brackenridge tract. A Trail extension in the Brackenridge Tract would greatly benefit a large part of the Austin community and can be routed to preserve diverse natural areas important to birds and other wildlife including the Brackenridge Field Station. A trailhead could also be developed at or near the LCRA complex along Lake Austin Boulevard.

To the east, a similar extension is possible through the soon-to-be developed Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Park to Montopolis Drive. It would provide an important connection to the Montopolis neighborhood. Guerrero Park will include lighted parking, restrooms and other amenities.

Within the park, Zilker Park and Fiesta Gardens offer possibilities for loop trails. These loops create different types of trail experiences and reduce crowded conditions. They also allow shorter or longer runs/walks. These extensions would improve the experience for thousands of daily Trail users who rely on it for health, fitness and a connection to nature.

31 Vision Plan

Enhance the Trail Before After

Maintain and enhance the natural environment of the Trail • Build on the “Healthy Trees for the Trail” program • Identify focus areas in which to continue addressing reforestation, invasive management, ecological restoration and wildlife management • Create visual and physical access to the water

1. Unsightly and exposed utility boxes With art piece fencing There are innumerable opportunities to enhance the Trail experiences with limited resources. Ideas illustrated here include: 1. Promoting a competition for artists to design and implement ways to beautify infrastructure like the utility boxes at Auditorium Shores 2. Pruning plant material to open and frame views of the lake and Austin cityscape 3. Adding drought tolerant plantings as a buffer along the roadways when they are close to the Trail

2. Invasive plants and neglected trees block lake view Riparian restoration and tree maintenance open up water view

3. Naked exposure to fast moving traffic With buffer 32 Encourage continued layers of use • Maintain multi-purpose destinations • Improve the gathering spaces and amenities The Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge is one of the Trail’s better known landmarks. It is a gathering place, a milestone, a viewing platform and more. There is an under utilized space created by the bridge itself. Simple upgrades and materials can inexpensively change how people experience this space. Here, painted drainage scuppers draw attention to their fine architectural detail, while added plant material softens and cools the space and creates seating and vending opportunities.

On the next page, a little “lipstick” enhances the familiar concrete and arbor rotunda along Cesar Chavez Blvd. With cleaning and paint, an added bench to Pfluger Bridge existing conditions the exterior of the “drum” and some climbing vines to the foundation wall, this fantastic arbor can be appealing and inviting again. Its prime location across from the Seaholm site and the new City Library might afford a terrific opportunity for a Children’s Outdoor Reading Room, a lovers’ overlook, a picnic spot, or any number of flexible uses.

Pfluger Bridge Concept

Location Pfluger Bridge Concept 33 Vision Plan

Existing conditions

Existing conditions Rotunda concept 34 Develop a cohesive trail signage system Directional & Trailhead sign content Interpretive sign content These signs direct users of the central trail system and enhance use of secondary These signs enhance users’ experience with a variety of interpretive subjects Trail wayfinding system and interpretive graphics trails. Sign content may include: which may include: • • Excellent sign systems achieve and go beyond basic functions such as “where Map to connecting trails showing beginning and end of trail Wildlife species -- water birds, migratory birds, raptors, small mammals, fish amphibians, reptiles and insects am I?” and “how do I get there from here?” Signage can promote an image of • Access to parking and public transportation, restrooms, water Austin that connotes originality, quality, beauty and civic pride. The existing signs • Plant species -- including trees, grasses, riparian vegetation, • Guidance to major streets and arterials retail districts and wayfinding system of the Trail represent 25 years of uncoordinated design wildflowers, invasive species by different entities. Form, materials, color, design hierarchy and typographic • Activities on trail • expression are unrelated and lack key information. Interpretive signs are scarce, • History of Colorado River -- transportation, dams, floods, which could help users appreciate the extensive wildlife, history and ecology of the Length of trail bridges, springs, riverside commerce Trail. Signs that connect the Trail to trailheads are inadequate or missing. Many • existing signs are worn or vandalized. Geology and hydrology of land surrounding lake -- floodplain, Highland Lakes, /Gulf Coastal fault line The Trail needs a thorough graphic makeover that is comprehensive, coordinated, and functional. On top of directional systems, an interpretive system could embrace technology and incorporate interactive kiosks or multimedia that is accessible by mobile phones.

Wayfinding and interpretive graphic systems are designed so that signs can be created over time with consistent results. The system needs a comprehensive set of fabrication guidelines drawings (see illustrations on these pages). Sign functions may be categorized as: 1. Informational signs / maps showing orientation to the lake, trail, and surrounding city environment 2. Directional & Trailhead signs guiding user to connecting spoke trailheads, trail features and landmarks 3. Interpretive signs explaining the environment and the experience of being on the trail 4. Regulatory signs proscribing Trail use, behavior and city laws High quality sign designs are both functional and expressive of the area they inform. Because the Trail is the heart of Austin, it must “break the mold” of a basic system (such as panels on posts) and support the reputation of a first-class metropolitan park.

Informational sign / existing map content The newly designed and installed trail maps may be incorporated into the comprehensive design program for the Trail. They adequately show Trail connectivity to central Austin recreational features and retail districts. Additional maps may be needed at key intersections of the lake basin. Restroom and water facilities should be added to existing maps.

35 Vision Plan

• Environmental preservation -- water treatment facilities; flood control and LCRA’s role in maintaining the waterway, erosion control; contaminants such as city run-off, pesticides, fertilizers, and heavy metals that affect the water system; urban and residential development and its effect on water quality • Restoration of trail -- how the trail and its habitat have been maintained and restored as well as the vision for its future improvements • Cultural history -- historic structures, prehistoric burials, excavations, rock shelter, prehistoric mammals, historic downtown and neighborhood districts

36 Expand the Trail

Expand the Day • Extend usable trail hours One logical strategy for expanding the Trail is to extend its usability into the evenings. As Austin’s downtown population grows, more people will want to use the Trail after sunset. This new use puts pressure on some areas to be modified for safety and wayfinding. Nearly 3,000 new residential units are expected in the urban core in the near future. A portion of Lady Bird Lake and the adjacent land needs to accommodate these city dwellers. A careful plan would make the lake and Trail accessible at night without spoiling the character or disturbing the habitat of present fauna.

An expansion plan may include: • Reviewing conditions, use and opportunities for a usable segment in the Trail’s urbanized core between Congress Avenue and Lamar Boulevard • Adding Urban Rangers to assist in patrolling the Trail at night • Adding emergency call boxes • Illuminating adjacent parking areas and their links to the Trail.

Examples of urban lighting

37 Vision Plan

S. Lamar St

Pfluger Bridge

South First Congress Ave Congress

Urban lighting along bridges, street corridors and parking areas

38 Increase the Trail mileage • Add trail eastward and westward • Expand the Trail within itself • Define ADA accessible routes

Add trailheads

South MoPac Trailhead and Trail Extension The South MoPac Trailhead is a very busy place and offers tremendous potential for upgrades, for example, an intensive training area for group fitness activities. The area west of the MoPac bridge is now used as mulch storage. It could become up to one mile of trail extension and a destination point. The concept (see illustration) features natural berm barriers, offering protection from the road and vantage points; naturally grown “stair training”; a sprint track; stretching area; and restrooms. It could also feature a formal entrance to the adjoining Nature Center, which is currently reached via an undefined dirt trail. That entry area may also Existing conditions Existing conditions include a drop-off/pull-around drive. This trailhead concept also adds a new access point to the lake, in the form of a lounging pier.

Location Existing conditions 39 Vision Plan

South MoPac Trailhead upgrade concept 40 Enhance the Trail

Maintain and enhance the natural environment of the Trail • Create visual and physical access to the water • Balance active and passive recreation • Create new landmarks through art, gathering areas South Lamar Boardwalk This concept addresses a major “choke point” of the Trail, a section under the S. Lamar bridge where Trail users are exposed to heavy traffic on Cesar Chavez and fast-moving cars. This area loses the sense of retreat from the urban hustle and bustle that makes the Trail so enjoyable. In addition to its hazards, this section of the Trail is barren and prone to flooding. To address these issues, this concept extends the Trail onto the lake with a mini-boardwalk.

The concept uses land, water and the bridge structure itself as the traffic barrier. The Trail’s existing path could be returned to a more natural state and re-planted with South Lamar bridge existing conditions South Lamar bridge existing conditions native plants. The wide boardwalk would accommodate the heavy traffic of runners, bikers and walkers in this section. It features two “lounging loops” that provide a place to fish, rest and enjoy the lake. This mini-boardwalk concept fits in well with the Trail at both points of connection: with the Pfluger bridge on the east side and at the traffic signal on Cesar Chavez at the Lamar Bridge on the west side.

Location South Lamar bridge existing conditions South Lamar bridge existing conditions 41 Vision Plan

Lamar bridge concept 42 Enhance and Expand the Trail

Improve the gathering spaces

Improve linkages • Improve connections to spoke trails

North MoPac Trailhead This trailhead is one of the most recognized and highly used places along the Trail. Located under the MoPac viaduct, east of Austin High School, it is well established and features a stretching area and watering station. The enhancement concepts presented here require minimal use of materials and resources. The focus is on more trail signage, graphics/paintings on the bridge columns, cleaning or replacing the well-used stretching area, and minimal plantings as buffers to the road.

The trailhead’s large open lawn under the pedestrian bridge is undefined. It could N MoPac trailhead existing conditions N MoPac trailhead existing conditions be upgraded to accommodate activities seen here, such as community fitness training events and kayakers. Bridge pylons in the water are used by kayakers to hang up nets and play soccer. Defining this area as a public kayak launching point would help the lawn become more engaged with the Trail.

Location N MoPac trailhead existing conditions 43 Vision Plan

North area MoPac upgrade concept

North MoPac Trailhead upgrade concept 44 Expand the Trail

Expand the day • Extend usable trail hours

Increase the Trail mileage • Add trail eastward and westward • Expand the trail within itself • Define ADA accessible routes

Add trailheads

North IH-35 Trailhead

This concept addresses an area that is critical to expanding the use of the Trail North IH-35 existing conditions North IH-35 existing conditions to the east. It turns a desolate parking lot into a defined destination point that supports many layers of use. For example, a new trailhead underneath the IH-35 bridge could include a kayak drop-off/pull-off, plantings and graphics/paintings by local artists, bringing the area to life. Replacing the concrete parking area with a stretching area and plaza and /kayak launch creates a more visible connection to the Trail. A floating fishing dock extended onto the lake adds activities. This low-use area has great potential for Trail users and may activate more interest in Festival Beach and the surrounding area.

Location North IH-35 existing conditions North IH-35 existing conditions 45 Vision Plan

IH-35 Trailhead concept plan IH-35 Trailhead concept panorama 46 3 Support the Trail

Create a management plan • Set high standards • Identify and address trash sources and zones requiring a higher maintenance level • Identify additional sources of volunteer power/groups to work with

Find a consistent funding mechanism The Trail Foundation receives a donation from the Texas Realty Capital City Council Member Mike Martinez, The Trail Foundation’s Susan Rankin, RVi Principles Barbara Austin and Bob Richardson, and Austin Mayor Will Wynn Identify particular organizations and neighborhood groups for implementation

Young Trail Foundation volunteers with LBJ Cares picking up trash. Tina Schweiger of Spoonbend next to a trail map sign she designed

47 48 Acknowledgments

RVi would like to thank the following participants who RVi attended the workshop, came together as a community and Barbara Austin produced valuable insight into our goals involving the trail. Melissa Goss-Jentz Participant Organization Participant Organization Chris Lalich John Worrall Facilitator Matt Turner Native Plant Society and Garden Adopter Bob Richardson Susan Rankin Executive Director, The Trail Foundation Lacey McCormick National Wildlife Federation Chris Crawford Griffin Davis TTF Board Member Bruce Hight Austin American-Statesman Gerry Smith Jack Collins TTF Board Member Kelley Jacobs Carter Burgess D’Anne Williams Liz McGuire TTF Board Member Andy Johnston Jacobs Carter Burgess Christina Crawford Martin Sara Moore TTF Board Member Dave Andreas Silicon Labs Shawn Massock Brian Ott TTF Board Member Connie Shepherd Mary Arnett TTF Member Dianne Hughes Victor Ovalle City of Austin Parks & Recreation Dept. East Cesar Chavez Neighborhood Interview Paul Smith Marty Stump City of Austin Parks & Recreation Dept. Lori Renteria E. Cesar Chavez Neighborhood Anjie King Planning Team Troy Houtman City of Austin Parks & Recreation Dept. Rebekah Johnson Sabino Renteria E. Cesar Chavez Neighborhood Sarah Macias City of Austin Parks & Recreation Dept. Dennis Tonsor Planning Team Nate Qualls Alice Nance City of Austin Parks & Recreation Dept. Raul Alvarez Grassroots Community Erin Chang Charlie McCabe Austin Parks Foundation Coordinator for AISD Dick Davis Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Mark Smith Jeannine Tinsly Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Chris Patterson Robin Doughty Travis Audubon Society Kolby Davidson Gene Lukow Nancy Manning Travis Audubon Society Sarah Hobson Robin Stallings Texas Bicycle Coalition Christina Moon Mark Stine Texas Bicycle Coalition David MacDermott Les Gage Original Member of Town Lake Beautification Committee Summer Lawton Jeff Jack Town Lake Alliance Peter Dufrene Courtney Jeffries REI David Kenyon Matt Knifton Texas Rowing Center Mike Barta Michael McGill Downtown Austin Neighborhood Association And a special thanks to Lindsey Petersen Jenny McMillian Marathon Kids Will Pickens Landscape Architect Additional special thanks to: Lynn Osgood Landscape Architect Anne Lasseigne Tiedt Wendy Price Todd Save Town Lake and South River City Citizens Laura Bond Williams

49