Austin’s Walnut Creek Trail Extended (TX)

AUSTIN, Texas, 11/13/03 – The Trust for Public Land (TPL) announced today the addition of nearly eight acres, located within the Walnut Creek watershed in east Austin, to the City of Austin’s Parks and Recreation Department for the expansion of the Walnut Creek trail.

Funding for the parkland came from Austin’s Proposition 2, which TPL played a lead role in creating. The measure was approved by voters in November 1998, and authorized $75.9 million for parks and greenways in under-served areas of Austin, including $35.5 million for new open space acquisitions.

“We’re happy to have helped Austin add to one of its most popular and scenic trails,” said Jenny Parks, TPL project manager. “City leaders have consistently shown a sincere commitment to conserving Austin’s natural resources for its residents and visitors.”

This project marks TPL’s sixth effort with the City of Austin for the Austin Greenways and Destination Parks Program, designed to improve park and open space access in under-served areas of Austin. Through the program, funds are earmarked for projects east of Interstate 35, where many of Austin’s low-income and minority citizens live.

Created in 1998, the Walnut Creek trail initiative was one of the City’s first projects aimed at improving the quality of life in Austin by facilitating a linear park system to link neighborhoods, businesses and schools, and preserve open space and water quality. From its start at the headwaters of the creek at Balcones District Park located off Duval Road, Walnut Creek trail extends to Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park. Ultimately, the City hopes to extend the trail to the Colorado River.

The property consists of nearly eight acres of low rolling green hills, densely wooded oaks and elms and has Walnut Creek cutting through its middle. It is located next to an approximately 198-acre property in east Austin that TPL acquired and conveyed to the City of Austin in 2002.

The Trust for Public Land is a national nonprofit land conservation organization that conserves land for people to enjoy as parks, gardens, and natural areas, ensuring livable communities for generations to come. Since its founding in 1972, TPL has helped protect more than 1.6 million acres of land in 45 states. In Texas, TPL has protected more than 22,000 acres for communities, including areas in and around Austin, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio. The Trust for Public Land depends on the support and generosity of individuals, foundations and businesses to achieve our land for people mission.