09 Jun A Dream Activated: Austin’s Lady Bird Lake Boardwalk!

Joyous ceremonies marked the opening of the Boardwalk on the Roy and Ann Butler Hike and Bike Trail around Lady Bird Lake in Austin, Texas. A ribbon cutting led by Austin Mayor Lee Lefffingwell opened the 1.4 mile link connecting the east end of the lake to downtown. A dream of many for decades, it was actualized in a partnership between the Trail Foundation and Austin Parks and Recreation, completing the $28 million boardwalk and trail extension.

Watch the video at:  http://bit.ly/AustinBoardwalk

The boardwalk and new trail sections create a 10 mile loop from Mopac on the west to Pleasant Valley Road in East Austin, allowing residents of East Austin full access to the trail and adding additional loops and connections for all trail users. The trail is a central feature of Austin and one that actively draws thousands to the outdoors every day.

After presentations by Mayor Leffingwell, Mayor ProTem Cole and Council Members Martinez, Riley and Tovo the audience heard of the history and effort in designing, funding and building the boardwalk from Austin Parks and Recreation Director Butch Smith, followed by Griffin Davis, head of the Trail Foundation's capital campaign and Susan Rankin, director of the Trail Foundation.

Upon cutting the ribbon, the crown surged after the Eastside Panther drum corps from the Lakeshore park to I-35 where Blue Lapis Light performed an aerial ballet in celebration. A perfect summer day greeted thousands of Austinites in using the Boardwalk for the first time.