The Austin Parks & Recreation Department (PARD) partnered with The Trail Conservancy (TTC) to replace and enhance the existing exercise equipment that sits adjacent to the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail near the PARD headquarters on West Riverside Drive. This project is complete and open to the public. District 9

The Trail Conservancy project webpage | Página web del proyecto en español

Photo of new exercise equipment at Butler Shores

Project Description

This project replaced existing items on the site including the exercise equipment, seating, and drinking fountain, and will increase fitness opportunities in the area. As part of the continual goal of trail improvement for The Trail Conservancy, the Butler Shores exercise equipment enhancement introduces more variety of exercise and fitness equipment, allowing for the conditioning of multiple muscle groups and a range of abilities. This enhancement also seeks to bring more awareness of this public amenity in this location. Finally, the project integrates supplemental areas for rest, including an updated drinking fountain and new trees to shade users during their use of the equipment. This project is complete!

Project Elements

The enhancement includes:

  • Exercise equipment with a well-rounded variety of workouts. Equipment is designed for ages 13+
  • Visual guides showing intended exercises for each equipment piece w/ a scannable link for more info
  • Natural hardscape materials
  • Native plants and shade trees
  • Engineered Wood Fiber surfacing
  • Concrete ribbon curb separates the trail from the fitness zone
  • Limestone block seat wall
  • New drinking fountain, bike racks, trash and recycling receptacles

Anticipated Schedule

Please note that as in any construction project, schedules are projected as accurately as possible. All dates are subject to change due to the nature of construction and the weather.

  • Summer 2020: Community Engagement (Complete)
  • Summer 2021: Design Phase (Complete)
  • Summer 2022: Permitting/Construction Documents (Complete)
  • Fall 2022: Construction Started
  • Summer 2023: Construction Complete
  • September 2023: Project Open to the Public

Community Engagement

A survey was made available from August 4 through September 1, 2022

Survey results (PDF, 1.1 MB)

A virtual meeting was held on November 12, 2020.

Funding and Resources

This project is funded through a combination of Parkland Dedication fees and donations from The Trail Conservancy. 

Contact Information

For additional information, please visit The Trail Conservancy project website or email Charles Mabry, PARD project manager.