BACKGROUND
Built in 1925, the Barton Springs Road Bridge provides access over Barton Creek along Barton Creek Road at the entrance to Zilker Park. The bridge was widened to its current form in 1946, which includes two traffic lanes in each direction. The bridge also features narrow sidewalks along each side, guard rails and a sidewalk underneath. While the existing bridge is structurally in fair condition, many of its features are functionally obsolete and it requires replacement to ensure safety and longevity. Given that the existing bridge present mobility challenges for vehicles, bikes and pedestrians, this project will provide needed mobility enhancements for all users. Intersection improvements to nearby Barton Springs Road and Azie Morton Drive are necessary as part of this project.
In November 2020, Austin voters approved $102 million for major infrastructure projects, with the possibility of allocating a portion of that funding to address the Barton Springs Road Bridge. In December 2023, Austin City Council officially recommended replacing the bridge and advanced the project to the design phase.
The City of Austin received a $32 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation in November 2024 to help fund construction of the new bridge.
TIMELINE
- Preliminary Phase (Engagement/Evaluation): 2023
- Design Phase: 2024-2026
- Bid/Award/Execution: Late 2026 to early 2027
- Construction: Beginning summer 2027
Dates are projected as accurately as possible but are subject to change.
FUNDING
2020 Mobility Bond – Proposition B (Major Capital Improvements Category)
U.S. Department of Transportation Bridge Investment Program Grant – $32 million
CONTACTS
Transportation and Public Works
512-974-2300
Email