20.0 - Barton Springs Bridge Recommendation — original pdf

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RESOLUTION AFFIRMING PARTNERSHIP WITH THE AUSTIN CITY COUNCIL 4/27/26 WHEREAS: The Barton Creek bridge in Zilker park was constructed in 1926 as a two lane bridge and expanded in 1945 and 1946 to four lanes, and the bridge is located in a National Register District, Whereas: The Historic Landmark Commission learned in March, that the 100-year old Barton Springs Bridge was slated for demolition and replacement. At the same time, members learned that a Council decision to demolish the bridge was made two years ago without any consultation with HLC, nor the examination of the accurate facts concerning the condition of the bridge. And, members were informed that the recommendation for demolishing the bridge had not gone through the City-mandated review process, which included a reviews by other board and commissions, and including the Historic Landmark Commission review. Beginning the review process after a Council action had already been taken in the process has created unnecessary discord and community outrage. It did, however, provide the HLC with the opportunity—albeit after the fact--to delve into the information about the viability of the bridge and the options for remediation. Whereas, with the limited information provided, there is reason to believe that the condition of the bridge has been misrepresented to the Council and that options for retaining the bridge has not been explored or have been withheld from objective evaluation. For example, the initial HLC presentation included misleading claims regarding the cost of rehabilitation vs. the cost of replacement, how long the bridge might last if remediation is chosen over replacement, lack of clarity on the federal standards and how the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) could govern the development process. In response to tough questions from Commissioners about the validity of the engineering studies, and conclusions drawn from them, the request for HLC review of the demotion request has been put on hold. However, a follow- up briefing did little to dispel Commissioner’s concerns and many questions remain unanswered. Whereas, there is sufficient evidence that if the Council-required process for review of proposed demolition had not been by-passed, and in particular, the advice and expertise from members of the HLC had been included, the Council might not have approved the bridge demolition and a great deal of rancor could have been avoided. THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT: The Historic Landmark Commission requests that the Council’s decision to demolish the Barton Springs bridge be reconsidered and that the HLC is always willing to help review, and provide insight on projects of this nature when we are given the courtesy of the process unfolding as Council has approved. We are proud to stand with the Austin City Council in decision-making that respects the process, preserves our iconic structures, and keeps Austin the city we all love. Thank you. Sincerely, Ben Heimsath, Chair, Historic Landmark Commission Roxanne Evans, Vice-Chair, Historic Landmark Commission