Rainey Street Trailhead Park Improvements

With the growth of the Rainey Street District, the connection between the Ann & Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake and Rainey Street is becoming more vital for transportation and access to nature. The Austin Parks and Recreation Department is partnering with The Trail Conservancy to identify park improvements south of Cummings Street between Rainey and East Ave. This project is in the bidding phase. District 9

View south of Cummings Street toward the Trail and Lady Bird Lake

Background

Previously in this area, The Trail Conservancy completed the Miró Riveria Restroom in 2007 to bring a much-needed restroom to this stretch of the Trail. PARD and Public Works completed ADA enhancements to the restroom and the Trail in recent years, as well as an expansion of the Great Streets along Cummings St., complete with benches, sidewalk, and new shade trees. This gateway to the Trail is an important entry point that we envision improving the ecological function, providing expanded recreational benefit, and increasing amenities for the neighborhood and Trail users.

Project Description

The project goal is to improve and enhance the ecological function of the site while providing spaces for recreational use and improved trail connectivity for the growing area. PARD partner, The Trail Conservancy (TTC), has developed a site plan for the space that includes improved trail connections to Butler Hike and Bike Trail, a nature play playground, sitting areas, open play lawn, a small dock, and native plantings. A detailed site plan may be found at The Trail Conservancy website.

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.

September 2019 to December 2019: Community Engagement and Design Phase (Complete)
January 2020 to May 2020: Cost estimation and fundraising (Complete)
Mid-2022: Permitting/Construction Documents (Complete)
Fall 2022 to Spring 2023: Construction Bidding (Ongoing)
Spring 2023 to Fall 2023: Construction Phase (Anticipated)