Gaps in Shoal Creek trail may be filled

AUSTIN (KXAN) - New renderings of multi-use pathways were released Monday night that could eventually fill the gaps in the Shoal Creek trail that runs through much of the Western parts of downtown.

The section of the trail needing improvements is located just west of the Monarch tower, between West Avenue and West 5th Street.

"For years and years there's been a gap there and people have had to resort to crossing the creek over some boulders. They're even using a concrete easement on the waste water line over there," said Robert Brennes with the Austin Parks and Recreation Department .

Monday afternoon, several bicyclists were seen trying to cross over rocky terrain, deep puddles and narrow concrete paths that already exist. Some, actually slipping off into the water.

"I saw people that were stranded here earlier," said John Parfitt.

"I about killed myself here last year," said cyclist Mike Bagby. "I rode over and fell face first. Broke my brake lever here. So, I always walk across now instead of riding."

Cyclist Brian Steele doesn't mind the terrain as much.

"Here and then down that way a quarter of a mile is perpetually washed out. You might have to get your feet wet, but oh well," he said.

The $2.5 million project will still have to be approved by the full Parks and Recreation Board before construction can move forward. If that happens, the project should start in about three months and wrap up the end of 2012.

"A lot of the community wanted it for years, so it's good to have that connectivity. My concern is the way it's going to be implemented right now," said Zoila Vega with the Austin Heritage Tree Foundation .

Vega is worried because much of the greenery along the lush trail will have to be cleared along the banks to make room for the improvements. She would prefer another alternative be explored before the construction moves forward to preserve some of the current landscape.

"There's urban wildlife in this area," she said.

But, while everyone can agree on connectivity, many could agree on a need for something else as well.

"I think that it could be cleaned up. This whole area is really cool, but it does need some work I think. It would kind of make this place transform a bit. It has a lot of potential," Parfitt said.