The Walter E. Long Metropolitan Park improvements will center on the existing Lakeside Park area and emphasize the rehabilitation of the site's infrastructure. These improvements will help sustain park operations until implementation of vision plan elements can begin in the future. District 1

Background

The expansion of the City of Austin’s steam turbine plant along Decker Road in the mid-1960s required a constant source of water for cooling and resulted in the need and development of a new lake in the area. Construction of the dam started in May 1966 and the introduction of water began in early 1967.

Since 1968, the following Land Use Plan items have been implemented and constructed:

  • Two Nature Preserves: Louis Rene Barrera Indiangrass Wildlife Sanctuary and the Decker Tallgrass Prairie Preserve;
  • two boat docks;
  • restrooms (no longer in operation);
  • a portion of a hike and bike trail; and
  • enhanced native grassland areas, main park road, picnic areas, and a swimming area.

In January 2018, the Austin Parks and Recreation Department began a new vision planning process (formerly called master planning). The city of Austin Council adopted the Walter E. Long Vision Plan on October 15, 2020. Vision Plan recommended long-term improvements to the metropolitan park.

Project Description

The proposed park improvements will primarily address utility work, restroom upgrades, road work, and a nature trail.

Objectives

Improve existing conditions of the metropolitan park in alignment with the recommendations of the vision plan. Improvements to include existing restroom rehabilitation, improve existing roads and vehicle connectivity throughout the implementation area and provide for a nature trail. Adjustments to road layouts and other amenities will be made based on their alignment with the vision plan.

Anticipated Schedule 

Background research was conducted summer of 2022 by the Public Works and Parks and Recreation Departments.

Item Anticipated Start Date
Assignment to Public Works Project Management Team  Summer 2022     
Assignment of Consultant through Rotation List Late Summer 2022 – Early Fall  2022
Scope Development  Fall 2022
Approved Consultant Project Scope Winter 2022-23

Community Engagement

This project will focus primarily on infrastructure improvements. The project team will keep stakeholders informed of improvements. Input will be sought if playgrounds and other amenities are to be included based on the budget.  

Funding and Resources

This project will be funded by 2018 Prop C – Parks and Recreation (Infrastructure) – Fund 8123.

Contact Information

For more information, please contact Reynaldo Hernandez by email or by phone at 512-974-9464