The restroom service tower at Austin Memorial Park Cemetery will be renovated to provide updated services and ADA compliance. The renovation includes a fully accessible restroom and will preserve the historic architecture and features. Access to the park road, administration building, and entry will not be impacted during the renovation. The restroom tower will be closed during construction. District 7

Update

The construction contract was executed on January 13th, 2023. The contractor has completed millwork measurements for windows and doors. Anticipated construction mobilization will begin in February 2023 with project completion expected in April 2023.

Due to the historic designation of the cemetery, all precautions are being made to make certain the restroom tower will serve the community and their loved ones for years to come. Construction updates will be provided every month until project completion.

Interior post demolition

Project Background

Austin Memorial Park Cemetery was built in 1927, with the caretaker’s cottage (main administration building now) and ‘tower’ restroom in 1928, by a private company, Austin Memorial Park Corporation, and architect Will Harry Chambers.

Image of the existing service tower restroom

Project Description

The proposed restroom renovation will provide a family restroom with a locking latch from the inside. The ADA-compliant restroom will include a 4-foot-wide accessible path, new lavatory sink, mirror, floor-mounted toilet, baby changing station, hand dryer, grab bars, fresh ventilation, and LED lighting with occupancy sensors.

All proposed improvements inside the restroom will maintain the historical character while providing updated features. No changes to the exterior façade are proposed. All wood windows, trim, and doors will be refurbished or replaced with like materials in accordance with historic preservation practices.

Proposed restroom section and details

Anticipated Project Schedule

  • December 2020: Start of the design phase for renovation drawings.
  • June 2021: 100% construction drawings complete
  • Summer 2021: Permit submittal
  • Spring 2022: Redesign of plumbing and vent exhaust
  • Feb 2023: Anticipated construction start
  • Spring 2023: Anticipated construction completion

Contact

PARD Project Coordinator: James Wheeler, james.wheeler@austintexas.gov,  239-974-9413