A Wish Come True: New Bridge Finally Connects the 10-Mile Butler Loop
- Austin Fitness Community
- 4 hours ago
- 2 min read
(Photo By The Trail Conservancy)
AUSTIN (Austin Fitness Community) - For years, traversing the full circuit of Lady Bird Lake meant an awkward - and often traffic-heavy - detour near Longhorn Dam. This Saturday, that gap officially closes. The Trail Conservancy and the City of Austin are set to unveil the highly anticipated Wishbone Bridge and Unity Underpass, a massive infrastructure milestone that finally completes the 10-mile loop of the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail.
The ribbon-cutting celebration takes place Saturday, February 7th, from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM, inviting Austinites to be the first to walk, run, or ride across the new structures while enjoying food trucks, live music, and family-friendly activities on the plaza.
Bridging the Gap
The project, which broke ground in July 2024, addresses one of the most critical connectivity issues in Austin’s park system. Previously, trail users were forced onto the sidewalk of Pleasant Valley Road. The new “Wishbone” bridge changes the game entirely, creating a seamless, traffic-free experience.
True to its name, the bridge features a unique three-way design connecting Longhorn Shores, Canterbury, and the Holly Peninsula in Town Lake Metropolitan Park. It serves as both a functional connector and a scenic viewing platform, allowing pedestrians and cyclists to bypass the roadway completely.
(Photo By The Trail Conservancy)
Art and Culture in Motion
The project is more than just concrete and steel; it is a celebration of the East Austin community. The new Unity Underpass, which routes users under South Pleasant Valley Road to connect with the Roy G. Guerrero Trail, features a massive new art installation titled "Absolute Equality: Unity Tunnel" by Reginald Adams. Commissioned by Austin Art in Public Places, the 130-foot-long mosaic is a testament to community collaboration. Over 200 local residents contributed to the artwork, which utilizes glass, porcelain tile, ceramic, and limestone to create a vibrant visual experience for those passing through.
On the bridge’s plaza, visitors will find another nod to local culture: 14 stunning Maraca Benches. Designed by Austin-based Lemmo Architecture and Design and fabricated by Harvest Lumber Co., these installations are designed to honor the neighborhood’s deep Hispanic roots and history, turning the bridge into a place to pause and gather rather than just a thoroughfare.
A Long-Awaited Celebration
The completion of this project represents the culmination of years of planning, dating back to 2018 when the City’s Transportation and Public Works Department partnered with the community to select the "wishbone" design.
Join neighbors and city officials this Saturday to celebrate the final piece of the puzzle. With the loop finally closed, the Butler Trail is now, more than ever, the heart of Austin.
Event Details:
What: Wishbone Bridge & Unity Underpass Ribbon Cutting
When: Saturday, February 7th | 10 AM – 12:30 PM
Where: Plaza near Longhorn Dam / Longhorn Shores
Highlights: First access to the bridge, food trucks, music, and activities.
RSVP TO RIBBON CUTTING BELOW:
Sources: The Trail Conservancy
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