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Waterloo Greenway's newest addition, The Confluence, formerly called the Creek Delta, is the continuation of the 35-acre riverside greenspace and trail system being constructed along Waller Creek in downtown Austin, TX.
The Confluence is the second in a three-phase plan that will culminate with a 3-mile chain of parks, dotted with community-friendly infrastructure, that will link the University of Texas's campus with Lady Bird Lake by way of bicycle and ADA-accessible pedestrian trails that parallel the creek.
The first phase of the Waterloo Greenway, called Waterloo Park, opened in August of 2021 after being closed for almost a decade. Now, attention is shifting to the southernmost point of the Waterloo Greenway, at the intersection of Cesar Chavez and Red River Streets, where Waller Creek meets Ladybird lake at Butler Hike & Bike Trail.
The Confluence's urban backdrop will also necessitate an approach that equally emphasizes enhanced connectivity. To achieve this goal, three lightweight suspension bridges, designed to blend effortlessly into the natural environment, will be constructed, creating vital new east-west connections for hiking, biking, and exploring.
To effectively calibrate the design of The Confluence with plans for downtown development, linking the west side of Waller Creek, where the Austin Convention Center and Four Seasons Hotel reside, with the bustling East side, where the Rainey Street District's dining and shops are located, became paramount in order to amplify economic development for the entire surrounding area.
The first phase of the Waterloo Greenway, called Waterloo Park, opened in August of 2021 after being closed for almost a decade. Now, attention is shifting to the southernmost point of the Waterloo Greenway, at the intersection of Cesar Chavez and Red River Streets, where Waller Creek meets Ladybird lake at Butler Hike & Bike Trail.
Unique Design Approach
Focusing heavily on sustainability and resiliency, the backbone of this $75 million project will include a complete reconstruction of the creek channel to stabilize severely eroded slopes, construction of creek features that create habitats for wildlife, and the introduction of nearly 1,550 trees (including a 500,000 pound, 70' tall Pecan Tree!), 200,000 mature plants, and 10 acres of seed mixes. These calculated improvements will enhance downtown air quality, restore creek health, mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, and reduce the urban heat island effect that is created due to proximity to downtown Austin.
The Confluence's urban backdrop will also necessitate an approach that equally emphasizes enhanced connectivity. To achieve this goal, three lightweight suspension bridges, designed to blend effortlessly into the natural environment, will be constructed, creating vital new east-west connections for hiking, biking, and exploring.
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The Stone Bluff runs parallel to Waller Creek.[/caption]
The Confluence is also pursuing certification under the Sustainable SITES Initiative (SITES), which recognizes sustainable land development projects that increase resiliency using nature-based solutions. Park-goers will be able to enjoy a one-of-a-kind immersive experience within the 13-acre park, including the deepest and most ecologically diverse section of Waller Creek.
The Stone Bluff runs parallel to Waller Creek.[/caption]
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Lakeview Terrance (left) and Lagoon & Leaf Deck (right)[/caption]
Lakeview Terrance (left) and Lagoon & Leaf Deck (right)[/caption]