City of Austin

Austin, TX — Austin has completed the erosion stabilization project at Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Metropolitan Park, marking a historic undertaking to protect parkland. At $28.5 million, it is the largest erosion control project in Austin’s history. 

The project, which began in August 2022, addresses long-standing and worsening erosion along the creek known as Country Club West. Severe flooding in 2015 washed away the pedestrian bridge and caused erosion that threatened Krieg Fields, park trails and roads, multi-family homes, large scale water and wastewater infrastructure, adjacent drainage channels and bridges on Riverside Drive and Wickersham Lane. 

A new pedestrian bridge is now open that is designed to withstand flood events. The bridge spans one of three newly constructed grade-control structures that helps step stormwater safely downward from the creek to the Colorado River. The completed project also includes a naturalized river bottom and stabilization features such as rocks and native grass along the channel banks. The City planted more than 40 trees as part of the project and contributed $500,000 to plant trees throughout the park that help make up for the hundreds of mature trees lost to the erosion. Funding was provided through a combination of Drainage Utility Funds, 2018 Bond Funds, and a FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant.

 “This project shows how thoughtful engineering, collaboration and innovation can correct the mistakes of the past,” said Jorge Morales, Director of Austin Watershed Protection. “It protects our open spaces, improves park connectivity, enhances wildlife habitat, and helps build a more resilient Austin for the future.” 

"This project is about more than erosion control - it's about protecting homes, infrastructure, and natural spaces while strengthening Austin's flood resilience. Thanks to FEMA, Austin voters, and local partners, we've stabilized 35 acres of parkland and strengthened Austin's resilience to flooding. This success reflects the power of collaboration between our city, federal partners and our community " said Austin Mayor Kirk Watson.

The project has already earned statewide recognition. It was named 2025 Project of the Year by the Texas chapter of the American Public Works Association in the Environmental Projects category ranging from $25 to $75 million.
 

About Austin Watershed Protection

Austin Watershed Protection protects lives, property and the environment of our community by reducing the impact of flooding, erosion, and water pollution. Visit AustinTexas.gov/Watershed to learn more.

About Austin Parks and Recreation

Austin Parks and Recreation seeks to inspire the community to learn, play, protect and connect by creating diverse programs and experiences in sustainable natural spaces and public places. This City of Austin department protects and maintains parkland, urban forest, and trails as well as offering sports, recreation, educational enrichment, nature programs, and aquatic activities for all Austinites. For more information visit AustinTexas.gov/Parks and follow @AustinCityParks.

About Austin Capital Delivery Services

Austin Capital Delivery Services builds projects that serve the community. Our team of engineers, architects, and construction professionals collaborates with residents, consultants, and City departments to ensure that projects are delivered on time, on budget, and with the community’s best interests at heart. With the philosophy of One City, One Team, One Approach, Austin Capital Delivery Services is committed to Austin’s continued success.