AUSTIN, Texas — A new greenspace in the heart of Downtown Austin is coming to fruition.
Waterloo Park has been closed to the public since 2011, but KVUE got a behind-the-scenes look at the remodel, which is nearing competition.
The park will feature 11 acres of greenspace, 1.5 miles of hike-and-bike trails and a 5,000 capacity outdoor amphitheater that will host around 35 shows a year with top artists.
The project between 12th Street and 15th Street is the result of years of planning and a joint effort with the City of Austin and the Waller Creek Conservancy.
A spokesperson for the park said other features and amenities will include:
- Custom-crafted “European” playscapes, including a 25,000 pound stone slide;
- Concessions, spots for local food trucks and restrooms;
- Lighting such as puck lights in handrails and downlights throughout to illuminate the park in the evening;
- Heritage tree canopies and seating under shade trees (5 heritage trees relocated and nearly 500 new trees added);
- Four green roofs and multiple rain gardens;
- The addition of 62,000 new plants (170 different species);
- An “S” bridge that snakes down to the park;
- Man-made hills.
Waterloo Park’s great lawn will provide nearly 38,000 square feet of fresh Latitude 36 Bermuda Grass, selected for its ability to withstand the heavy foot traffic of community events at the Moody Amphitheater.
Underneath the grass are three different types of soil layered on top of 6 inches of sand, designed “to resist the compaction that will inherently come from chairs, most pits or people jumping up and down during live performances.”
A virtual tour of the park will be open to the public on Oct. 29 at 12:30 p.m.
PHOTOS: Downtown Austin's Waterloo Park nears completion
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