AUSTIN, Texas — Editor's note: A previous version of this story stated that the detours would begin on Sept. 30, but the city later clarified that they will begin on Oct. 14.
A new detour on the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail begins soon and will remain in place through mid-December.
The city of Austin said the third series of detours will begin on Monday, Oct. 14, and will take users over Waller Creek on a temporary crossing.
Unlike the second phase, this detour won't force users to get off their bicycles. The city also said for safety reasons, the route will have a fence on both sides. The city urges bicyclists and pedestrians to use caution on the detour. Those who access the trail from Trinity Street should also be aware of a construction entrance at the location.
During the detour, crews will finish the bridge supports and install the final Waterloo Greenway lattice bridge, which will become the new Butler Trail bridge over the creek. The current detour will remain in place until the third phase begins.
The city noted there are also other, unrelated detours happening on the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail. You can check out this full list of complete closures to learn more.
More about The Confluence
According to the city, The Confluence will include approximately 13 acres along Waller Creek from Fourth Street to Lady Bird Lake and will allow for a continuous, off-street bike and pedestrian tail between the Hike and Bike Trail and Fourth Street. The project also aims to stabilize the creek bank, improve water quality and provide access to nature.
Construction on The Confluence began in May 2023 and is expected to be complete in 2026. The estimated construction cost, including contingencies, is $75 million and the project is funded by the city, the Waterloo Greenway Conservancy and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Among other things, The Confluence will include three lattice bridges; a continuous, elevated walkway connecting Palm Park to the Hike and Bike Trail; the new Lagoon Overlook and Leaf Deck adjacent to the lake; the Lakeview Terrace and Explorer's Garden; and a new connection to Waller Creek at Fourth Street with the Cypress Grove and Trailhead Plaza.
