B1: B-Draft Vision Plan Part 1

Parks and Recreation Board – May 25, 2021

B1: B-Draft Vision Plan Part 1 — original pdf

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Vision Plan DRAFT 1 Central Williamson Creek Vision Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTAcknowledgments Project Team Nicole Joslin, AIA, LEED AP Executive Director Marla Torrado, Ph.D. Planning Director Shavone Otero Community Coordinator Thomas Medina Community Planner Community Working Group Mary Olmstead Anna Pittala Steve Prather Jessica Sager Nicole Sanford Greg Stevens Michael Usher Esther Weekes City Departments Watershed Protection Department Parks and Recreation Department Public Works Office of Sustainability Office of Innovation Housing and Planning Department Equity Office 2 Amy Belaire, Ph.D. Texas Director of Science and Strategy Katie Coyne, AICP, ESA, SITES AP Principal-In-Charge Claire Eddleman-Heath PLA, LEED AP, SITES AP Project Manager Kari Spiegelhalter Deputy Project Manager Andrew Wright Landscape Designer City of Austin Working Group Christine Chute Canul Parks and Rec. Dept. Justin Stewart Parks and Rec. Dept Marc Coudert Office of Sustainability Megan Eckhard Parks and Rec. Dept. Sydney Garcia* National Parks Service David Trujillo Watershed Protection Dept. LaJuan Tucker Parks and Rec. Dept Staryn Wagner Watershed Protection Dept. Leah Gibson Watershed Protection Dept. Katie Wettick Urban Trails Program Marie Lancaster Watershed Protection Dept. Jessica Wilson Watershed Protection Dept. Gibran Lule-Hurtado* National Parks Service *Working Group Members from the National Parks Service Letter From the Community Working Group Williamson Creek is a gem crossing West to East in South Austin between Oak Hill and McKinney Falls State Park. Residents of the neighborhoods surrounding Williamson Creek have enjoyed this natural beauty for more than twenty years. Community efforts over a number of years, including trash pick-ups, tree planting and the removal of invasive species, have resulted in improving the health of the creek and supporting the native flora and fauna. Central Williamson Creek Greenway is slowly becoming a more welcoming green space for residents to connect with nature and for nature to thrive. We are thrilled to envision the future of a place we love so dearly with the Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan. This Vision Plan represents a 12-month process of both Williamson Creek Working Group (WCWG) formal and creative efforts to engage the community and input derived from public engagement. Community engagement activities included: community members recording their own oral histories through WCWG interviews; virtual community picnics; virtual mapping that enabled community members to propose ideas such as food forest planting and hiking trails in and around the creek; several in-person and socially-distanced “Creek Chats” to engage the community; and a final community picnic to unveil the Vision Plan and offer an opportunity to provide community feedback in 2021. Implementation of the community’s spirited ideas for this plan, in part or entirety, will transform Central Williamson Creek Greenway from its current state to one that will serve nature and the community in the future. Thank you to the St. David’s Foundation for providing the grant used to draft this Vision Plan, to Community Powered Workshop for facilitating the process, and to Asakura Robinson for co-creating this Vision Plan with us. We also want to thank members of the City of Austin Working Group for their dedication and time. We are excited to move forward with the support of Austin Parks & Recreation, the Watershed Protection Department, and their affiliates. Lastly, we would like to thank and acknowledge those longtime friends who have supported and participated in efforts to maintain Williamson Creek since 2005. Sincerely, The Central Williamson Creek Working Group Mary Olmstead Steve Prather Nicole Sanford Anna Pittala Jessica Sager Greg Stevens Michael Usher Esther Weekes 3 Central Williamson Creek Vision Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTTable of Contents Acknowledgments .......................................................................................................... 2 Letter From the Community Working Group .............................................. 3 1: Project Overview ......................................... 7 Central Williamson Creek Greenway ..................................................................8 Vision Plan Overview .................................................................................................... 12 Community Goals ........................................................................................................... 13 The Design Process .......................................................................................................14 Opportunities and Constraints .............................................................................. 17 2: Central Williamson Creek Vision Plan ........ 21 Overall Vision Plan ..........................................................................................................22 Vision Plan Elements ....................................................................................................24 Vision Plan ...........................................................................................................................27 Meadow Creek Trailhead ...........................................................................................33 Heartwood Buyout Area .............................................................................................36 Orland Street Trailhead ...............................................................................................43 3: Developing the Vision ................................. 45 Articulating Common Goals ................................................................................... 48 Goal #1: A Restored, Biodiverse Greenway .................................................... 50 Goal #2: A Community-Centered Greenway ................................................58 Goal #3: An Accessible and visible Greenway ..............................................66 Goal #4: An Active and Connected Greenway ............................................72 4: Community Engagement ............................. 79 Engagement Strategy ................................................................................................ 80 Digital Engagement .................................................................................................... 80 In-Person Engagement ............................................................................................. 84 5: Existing Conditions .................................... 87 Community Context..................................................................................................... 89 Local Ecology .....................................................................................................................95 Greenway Access ............................................................................................................105 Hydrology ............................................................................................................................ 115 6: Implementation ......................................... 121 Implementation Stream ...........................................................................................122 Ongoing City of Austin Projects ...........................................................................126 Sustainable Sites.............................................................................................................128 Implementation By Idea ...........................................................................................130 People Experiencing Homelessness ................................................................138 7: Afterword & Appendices ............................ 141 Afterword .............................................................................................................................143 Bibliography ..................................................................................................................... 144 Recommended Plant List ........................................................................................146 Recommended Materials Criteria ..................................................................... 148 All Community Engagement + Communications ..................................216 Nature Trail and Track Guidance Near Trees.............................................. 274 4 5 Central Williamson Creek Vision Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTA Guide to Commonly Used AcronymsCWCG: Central Williamson Creek GreenwayCOA: City of AustinPARD: Parks and Recreation DepartmentWPD: Watershed Protection DepartmentCWG: Community Working GroupCPW: Community Powered Workshop1: Project Overview A Note from Community Powered Workshop (CPW) Community Powered Workshop is an Austin-based, non-profit architecture and planning organization that works alongside communities to create powerful and equitable places that promote a healthy future and break barriers of systemic injustice through collaborative planning, community- driven research and social impact design. We entered this community-led effort to create the Central Williamson Creek Vision Plan in 2017 alongside community members in the Central Williamson Creek area to re-imagine this green space as a resilient, healthy and connected public space. For this Vision Planning process, Community Powered Workshop facilitated the convening of a Community Working Group to bring local voices and perspectives to the table, and a City of Austin Working Group composed of staff from multiple City of Austin departments and the National Parks Service. With the goal to build long-term, collaborative working relationships between community members and public land managers, these working groups place community members and City staff on equal footing in the planning process as a way to balance community priorities that also support a sustainable and healthy environment. 6 7 Central Williamson Creek Vision Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Legend Central Williamson Creek is a stretch of nearly continuous greenway along Williamson Creek in Austin, Texas. This section of the creek, which runs for about two miles between S. Congress Avenue and Menchaca Road, and just north of Stassney Lane, is located in a primarily residential area of South Austin. Much of the land directly adjacent to the creek is publicly owned by The City of Austin Parks Department and the City of Austin Watershed Protection Department as a result of a floodplain home-buyout project that transitioned formerly residential land into floodable green space. This land now presents a significant opportunity to create a connected recreational greenway for a park-deficient community in South Austin. Meadow Creek Buyout Area Radam Circle Buyout Area Richmond Tributary Buyout Area Heartwood Buyout Area Parks and Recreation Department Land Creeks d a R c a h c n e M Downtown Austin c a P M o 5 I-3 290 Central Williamson Creek Grenway 0 2 4 mi SOUTH MENCHACA Meadow Creek Buyout Area A' Richmond Tributary Buyout Area S 1st St. -7 e 6 g a n P n o tio c e S A Radam Circle Buyout Area GARRISON PARK Heartwood Buyout Area WEST CONGRESS W Stassn ey L n gress Ave n o S C 8 9 0 1000 2000 ft Data sources: City of Austin Google, The Nature Conservancy, USGS Central Williamson Creek Greenway Central Williamson Creek Vision Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTHome Buyout Program The homes in the neighborhood adjacent to and within the Williamson Creek floodplain have experienced repeated destructive flooding over the past two decades. All homes in the neighborhoods are at an increased risk as floods continue to intensify due to climate change and Austin’s rapid growth and development. Major floods in 1998, 2001, and 2013 prompted a consideration of a buyout program in this area, and in 2015, the first phase of a home buyout program began through a partnership between the City of Austin and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. As of 2019, fifty-one properties have been purchased by the city and demolished to prevent future redevelopment. There are a total of four buyout areas along the project site: the Meadow Creek buyout area, Radam Circle buyout area, the Richmond Tributary buyout area, and the Heartwood buyout area (see map on page 9). The land and floodplain recovered from this effort is now owned and maintained by the City of Austin’s Watershed Protection Department with the goal of maintaining it as an open, floodable space to protect adjoining residences from flooding. Community-Driven Open Space In addition to the home buyout properties, Central Williamson Creek is bordered by about fifty-eight acres of undeveloped parkland owned by the Austin Parks and Recreation Department and sixteen acres of residential floodplain buyout properties owned by the Austin Watershed Protection Department. This publicly owned land adjacent to the rich biodiverse riparian ecosystem of Williamson Creek presents a unique opportunity to connect residents of South Austin to urban ecological systems, recreation, and gathering spaces. For more than 20 years residents have discussed and imagined ways to preserve and protect this corridor and make it more connected and accessible where possible. They have dedicated themselves to the greenway through creek clean-ups, invasive species removals and hosted community potlucks and natuer walks. Two community gardens were established in addition to wildflower meadows and the Tom Donovan trail. In 2019 community leaders in the Southwood neighborhood partnered with local non-profits and conservation organizations to initiate a series of community engagement and activation events called Explore! Williamson Creek. Many desires emerged, including interest in a creekside nature trail, social gathering spaces, community gardens, wildlife habitat, and other amenities. The outcome of these activations highlighted the passion community members hold for Williamson Creek and their desire to have a voice in the planning and design process. This vision plan process continues this effort through an engaged Community Working Group feedback process and Community Workshops. Previous Planning Efforts City of Austin Neighborhood planning documents addressing South Austin acknowledge Williamson Creek as a priority area for parks and recreation. South Austin Combined Neighborhood Plan: Create bike lanes on major roads, provide a greenbelt path along Williamson Creek. Southeast Combined Neighborhood Plan: Add more sidewalks, create hike and bike trail along Williamson Creek, add mixed-use zoning. Southeast Combined Neighborhood Plan: Maintain Williamson Creek in a natural state, improve pedestrian connections, and develop a new neighborhood park. W. Stassney Lane looking west Single family residential development Buyout parcel in the Radam Circle Buyout Area Central Channel of Wililamson Creek Typical residential road in neighborhoods along Williamson Creek Stassney Lane Private Residences Utility Corridor Private Residences Williamson Creek Buyout Properties (Austin Watershed Protection Department) Private Residences Section A-A': Central Williamson Creek and Surrounding Context at Radam Circle Estimated 100 year floodplain Bankfull floodplain Development Development A 10 A' 11 Central Williamson Creek Vision Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTVision Plan Overview This Vision Plan report provides a comprehensive guiding vision for the future of the Central Williamson Creek Greenway. The recommendations in this plan were created through close collaboration with a community working group, the City working group, and feedback from the general public. Chapter 2 | Pages 21-44 Vision Plan The Vision Plan chapter presents the overall designs for the Williamson Creek Greenway from S. Congress Avenue to Menchaca Road, along with examples of more detailed concept designs for two trailheads at Orland St and S. 1st Street and at Meadow Creek Circle. Chapter 3 | Pages 45-78 Developing the Vision This chapter provides a detailed overview of the four community goals that drove this plan, how they were developed, and each goal’s corresponding design strategies utilized in the Vision Plan to achieve those goals. Chapter 4 | Pages 79-86 Community Engagement This Vision Plan was developed in close collaboration with community members, and this chapter provides an overview of the digital and in-person community engagement process and outcomes. Chapter 5 | Pages 87-120 Existing Conditions The Existing Conditions chapter provides an overview of current ecological, hydrological, and social conditions of the creek and its immediate surrounding neighborhood. Chapter 6 | Pages 121-140 Implementation Chapter 6 lays out a three-tiered approach to funding and constructing the Vision Plan designs over time based on project effort and feasibility, and provides maintenance recommendations. Community Goals The following four goals emerged from a design process that listened to and engaged with community priorities through a series of virtual and in-person engagement events, described in detail in Chapter 4. 1. A RESTORED, BIODIVERSE GREENWAY The future Central Williamson Creek Greenway will be a healthy, functioning riparian ecosystem, rich with plant and animal life and free from ecologically destructive invasive species. Volunteer and city ecological restoration efforts, green infrastructure installations, and low-impact trails will preserve the creek’s wild character, protect sensitive species, and improve water quality. 2. A COMMUNITY-CENTERED GREENWAY The future Central Williamson Creek Greenway will be a system of trails, parks, community gardens, and other gathering spaces where neighbors and South Austin residents gather to socialize and exercise. Community-built art, urban agriculture, restoration and other projects along the greenway will create a sense of ownership and pride. 3. AN ACCESSIBLE AND VISIBLE GREENWAY The future Central Williamson Creek Greenway will provide a continuous trail from S. Congress Avenue to Menchaca Road through key land acquisition and low-impact trail construction. Visitors to the greenway will be able to orient themselves through clear wayfinding signage, and learn more about the unique history, ecology, and geology of the creek through educational signage. Restoration Bioswale Rock Berm Example of Water Quality Strategy along Trail Trail 4. AN ACTIVE AND CONNECTED GREENWAY The future Central Williamson Creek Greenway will be an important public health amenity for the neighborhood and the broader Austin community. It will provide a key east-west connection to South Austin neighborhood resources and public transportation. The trail system will connect all communities to the creek and provide accessible creek experiences for those of all abilities. Mountain biking trails, fitness programming, and community gardens along the trail network will further enhance neighborhood health. 12 13 Central Williamson Creek Vision Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTSocial Pinpoint Social Pinpoint was the online virtual community engagement platform utilized to gather ideas and feedback from the general public throughout this project. Approvals The Design Process The Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan was created over a 11-month period Feedback on Social Pinpoint Timeline Meetings and Presentations Timeline Greenway Map Activity Open on Social Pinpoint Combined Meeting Creek Idea Card Voting Activity Open Greenway Plans available for comment on Social Pinpoint CWCG Vision Plan Document available for comment on Social Pinpoint for general public. Environmental Commission Parks and Recreation Board JUN ‘20 JUL ‘20 AUG ‘20 SEP ‘20 OCT ‘20 NOV ‘20 DEC ‘20 JAN ‘21 FEB ‘21 MAR ‘21 APR ‘21 MAY ‘21 Design Process Timeline Creek Stories Conversations with CWG COA Environmental Restrictions Feedback on Vision Plan Designs City of Austin Planning Documents Site Inventory and Analysis Four Design Goals Creek Idea Cards Central Williamson Creek Vision Plan Nature Conservancy Report Site Visits GIS Mapping Data Community Mapping Feedback Community Working Group The Community Working Group of eight community members living in the neighborhoods adjacent to the creek was established to collaboratively envision the future of the creek and to build community capacity for future implementation of this plan. The group was given a stipend for participation and met monthly to praticipate in collaborative visioning activities with the design team and to provide feedback on design deliverables. Implementation Central Williamson Creek Vision Plan Report Commission and Board Meetings Popular Creek Idea Cards on Social Pinpoint Insights from the City Working Group Community Working Group Meeting Community Meeting COA Working Group Meeting Community Celebration City of Austin Working Group The City of Austin Working Group was formed to create a group of experts able to provide advice on parks, trails planning, and environmental restoration, as well as an understanding of the City of Austin’s legal requirements for proposed designs. The City Working Group was comprised of 11 City of Austin staff members, representing the Parks and Recreation Department, the Watershed Protection Department, and Office of Sustainability, and the Urban Trails Program. Two members represented the National Parks Service. 14 15 Central Williamson Creek Vision Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTMany of these challenges also present opportunities. Rugged trails can present moments to highlight south Austin’s unique geology. Properties in the floodplain can host green infrastructure and floodplain restoration. Community members can work together to help manage invasive plant species. Each obstacle presents unique opportunities for creativity, teamwork, and stewardship. Opportunities and Constraints Williamson Creek is a rich ecological and social resource with great potential for increased use by local residents. It provides local residents with a green space for recreation, relaxation, and gathering. The Heartwood and Emerald Wood Community Gardens serve as hubs of community activity. Due to the Watershed Protection Department floodplain buyout program, there are many vacant areas that could provide more opportunities to interact with the creek. However, there are considerations and limitations to increased community access to the creek. While PARD and WPD own most of the properties along the creek, some sections are privately owned. This poses challenges to the creation of a continuous east-west trail along the creek. Many city-owned properties, meanwhile, are in the Williamson Creek floodplain. In these areas, site improvements must be low-impact and flood safe. In other areas, the creek’s rugged terrain and steep slopes limit access. Floodplains It should be noted that due to a new precipitation study from the National Weather Service known as Atlas-14, the floodplain maps of the entire city will be re-mapped within the next 3-5 years. The floodplains are shown in this document to reflect an estimation of this future update. It reflects these upcoming changes by showing “estimated” 25 year and 100 year flood events. According to the City of Austin’s FloodPro “Fully Developed Floodplain” scenario that can be found at https://www.austintexas.gov/floodpro/ Heartwood Community Garden is a community gathering space along the greenway where neighbors can grow their own food. 16 17 Central Williamson Creek Vision Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTd. a R c a h c n e M Stormwater Outfalls Rimrock Fringe Wetlands Springs Existing Bike Lanes PARD Properties WPD Properties 0 250 500 1,000’ N 18 Opportunities and Constraints Map Opportunities Constraints gress Ave n o S C estimated 25 year floodplain estimated 100 year floodplain S 1st St. Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFT2: Central Williamson Creek Vision Plan 20 21 Central Williamson Creek Vision Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTOverall Vision Plan This Vision Plan design for the Central Williamson Creek Greenway provides conceptual trail and open space designs for Williamson creak, focusing on the Parks and Recreation and Watershed Protection Department-owned land along the length of the creek. This overall design details the placement and locations of several design components: 1. Trails Trail Materials Austin’s 2014 Urban Trails Plan identifies Williamson Creek as a Tier 2 trail, indicating that it should be constructed with a paved material. Throughout the community engagement process for this Vision Plan, the community emphasized their desire for natural, low-impact trails along the greenway. This document recommends mulch or bonded mulch trails to align as closely as possible to community desires. However, a City-led preliminary engineering report and corresponding community engagement are recommended as the next steps in the process to create a balanced approach to trail development. Trail Placement Trail placement along the creek was determined by the following factors: 1. Slope Slope analyses identify changes in elevation in the land. Areas with a shallow slope were prioritized for trail placement because it is difficult for trail users to walk on steep slopes. Creating a trail on steep slopes also requires greater ecological disturbance and potential for erosion. See Chapter 5 for a detailed slope analysis. 2. Property Ownership Trail placement runs primarily along City-owned PARD and WPD property; however, there are several locations where land adjacent to the creek is privately owned. This plan recommends acquiring easements in those properties. In the meantime, trail users may walk in the City- owned creek bed when water is not flowing in the creek. After rains, trail users should utilize “high water” routes on city sidewalks to avoid trespassing on private property. These high water routes are short detours that quickly reconnect to the greenway trail on City-owned property. 3. Sensitive Ecological Features Central Williamson Creek’s biodiversity and unique geological features are a primary draw for visitors, however, these sensitive natural assets must be protected, and are protected legally through the City of Austin’s environmental restrictions. According to this code, trails can not be placed within a 50’ buffer of a Critical Environmental Feature (CEF) without an environmental variance. CEFs include seeps, springs, fringe wetlands, and rim rock. The placement of the trail along Central Williamson Creek maintains a 50’ distance from these features, unless it is absolutely necessary to pass within the buffer zone to provide trail connectivity. When considering trail placement, community input on common access points to the creek and identification of existing community assets and resources took high priority. This trail placement identifies a network of access points at key intersections, bridges, neighborhoods, and community resources. 2. Vision Plan Elements Orland Trailhead Creek Idea Cards The Vision Plan Elements, which include features such as signage, community gardens, and community message boards, arose from the Creek Idea Card community engagement process outlined in Chapter 4. This involved the development of 50 Creek Idea cards that were voted “up” or “down in” popularity by community members. Both popularity and feasibility were taken into consideration when selecting the final cards to be included in the plan as a Vision Plan Element. Each Element corresponds with one of the four overall goals, which can be identified by their color. See pages 24-25 for a full list of Vision Plan Elements and the goals they support. 3. Example Trailheads Site Selection Detailed conceptual designs for two trailheads are included in this plan. The purpose of these designs are to show examples of how activated trailheads and community gathering spaces at key nodes along the trail can further social, ecological, and community health goals. These sites were selected based on hydrological, ownership, and social factors. This land is buyout property that is owned by WPD. This site was selected to take advantage of funding offered by the department for ecological restoration and tree planting on buyout property. It is the largest continuous piece of buyout property and and straddles both the north and south sides of the creek. This land is owned by PARD. It was chosen as an example trailhead because it is out of the floodplain, and can thus have built structures or other features that would otherwise be destroyed by flooding if they were in the floodplain. 4. Environmental Features Ecological Restoration Significant opportunities exist for multiple types of ecological restoration along Williamson Creek: 1. Creek Restoration 2. Woodland Restoration 3. Wildflower Meadows 4. Fringe Wetland Restoration Opportunities for these four types of restoration are located and identified throughout the Overall Vision Plan. The Chapter 6 Implementation Plan outlines how both volunteer efforts and City-led efforts can work in tandem over time to achieve restoration goals. Reclaimed Branch Berms or Wattle Fence Reclaimed branch berms are neatly- stacked piles of 3-inch or larger branches that provide habitat and cover for small animal species and line trails to improve wayfinding and minimize impact to the surroundng environment by visitors. Stone Berms Stone berms slow rainwater flow before it enters the creek, helping to remove some sediments and decrease erosion. 4. Neighborhood Connectivity Meadow Creek Trailhead 22 Central Williamson Creek Vision Greenway Vision Plan MARCH 2021 DRAFT 23 Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTVision Plan Elements Goal Key These vision plan elements included in this design are a result of the “Creek Cards” community engagement process outlined in Chapters 3 and 4. 1. A Restored, Biodiverse Greenway 2. A Community-Centered Greenway 3. An Accessible and Visible Greenway 4. An Active and Connected Greenway Food Forests Labyrinth Nature Play Creek & Woodland Restoration Environmental Signage Green Infrastructure Music Groves Bonded Mulch Trail Land Acquisition or Easement Invasive Species Management Pollinator Nesting Boxes Wildflower Planting Natural Surface Trail Wayfinding Signage Weather Warning Signage BYO Hammock Grove Community Gardens Community Message Boards On-Street Bike Lanes Fitness Programming Mountain Biking 24 25 Central Williamson Creek Vision Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTa il r r T u p o m S t r s g r e B Vision Plan l c o D r . P h i G l a d e v i e w D r . Lansin g Dr estimated 100 year floodplain estimated 25 year floodplain d. a R c a h c n e M T Trailhead Proposed Nature Trail Existing Bike Lanes Proposed Bike Lanes High Water Route Mountain Biking Trail City Property Stone Berms Floodplain Safe Boundary Tributaries Geology Highlight Fringe Wetland Restoration Seep/Spring Creek + Woodland Restoration Green Infrastructure Rim Rock / CEF Wildflower Meadow Food Forest Trees N 0 250 500 1,000’ 26 Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan MARCH 2021 DRAFT Note: Mapped locations are conceptual. Final locations must be approved by city property owners and meet City of Austin Environmental Code, including protection of tree critical root zones. Refer to the implementation section and appendices. gress Ave n o S C Emerald Wood Dr Meadow Creek Dr. R a m ble L n S 1st St. d. a R c a h c n e M Menchaca to Union pacific 28 estimated 100 year floodplain estimated 100 year floodplain estimated 25 year floodplain L a nsin g Dr E S T I M A T E D 1 0 0 Y E A R F L O O D P L AIN T Trailhead Proposed Nature Trail Existing Bike Lanes Proposed Bike Lanes High Water Route Mountain Biking Trail City Property Stone Berms Floodplain Safe Boundary Creek and Tributaries Geology Highlight Fringe Wetland Restoration Seep/Spring Creek + Woodland Restoration Green Infrastructure Rim Rock / CEF Wildflower Meadow Food Forest Trees 0 100 250 500’ N a d c i fi c R a i l r o U n i o n P a Note: Mapped locations are conceptual. Final locations must be approved by city property owners and meet City of Austin Environmental Code, including protection of tree critical root zones. Refer to the implementation section and appendices. Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTMeadow Creek Dr. i e s t m a t e e e s s ti ti m m d 1 0 a a t t e e d d 2 2 0 y e a 5 5 y y r floodpl a i n e e a a r r f f l l o o o o d d plain plain E m e r a l d W o o d D r. c i fi c R R U n i o n P a T Trailhead Meadow Creek Trailhead Proposed Nature Trail Existing Bike Lanes st Dr ore erald F m E Proposed Bike Lanes High Water Route Mountain Biking Trail City Property Stone Berms Floodplain Safe Boundary Creek and Tributaries Geology Highlight Fringe Wetland Restoration Seep/Spring Creek + Woodland Restoration Green Infrastructure Rim Rock / CEF Wildflower Meadow Food Forest Trees N 0 100 250 500’ Union Pacific to South 1st uth 1st St o S R a m ble L n. Note: Mapped locations are conceptual. Final locations must be approved by city property owners and meet City of Austin Environmental Code, including protection of tree critical root zones. Refer to the implementation section and appendices. 31 Central Williamson Creek Vision Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTProperty Line Food Forest Meadow Creek Dr. estimated 100 year floodpl a i n estimated 25 year flood p l a i n Wildflower Planting Keep Existing Seating Area Food Forest Community Message Boards Labyrinth Invasive Species Management N 0 25 50 100’ 32 Meadow Creek Trailhead A group of contiguous floodplain buyout properties west of Emerald Forest Drive presents an opportunity for a major trailhead and community gathering space. Because these properties are within the floodplain, all site improvements must be low-impact and flood safe. Amenities shown here include a fitness lawn, hammock groves, and a labyrinth, providing spaces for neighbors to gather, relax, and stay healthy. Wildflower meadows, pollinator nesting boxes, and green infrastructure help to conserve and improve the creek environment. Other programming ideas include invasive species management, public art, and expansion of existing seating areas. Fitness Programming Public Art Natural Trail BYO Hammock Grove Green Infrastructure Radam Circle Note: Mapped locations are conceptual. Final locations must be approved by city property owners and meet City of Austin Environmental Code, including protection of tree critical root zones. Refer to the implementation section and appendices. Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTsouth 1st to south congress T Trailhead Proposed Nature Trail Existing Bike Lanes Proposed Bike Lanes High Water Route Mountain Biking Trail City Property Stone Berms Floodplain Safe Boundary Creek and Tributaries Geology Highlight Fringe Wetland Restoration Seep/Spring Creek + Woodland Restoration Green Infrastructure Rim Rock / CEF Wildflower Meadow Food Forest Trees f l o o d plain a i n l d p o e s timat e d r a e 1 0 0 y d 2 5 ye a r f l o e a t esti m Orland Trailhead Heartwood Dr Tom Donovan Nature Trail (Existing) South 1st St. E m e r a l d W ood Dr. A r D e n i l k e e r C A’ B Wood Bine Dr B’ gress Ave. n o uth C o S N 0 100 250 500’ 34 Note: Mapped locations are conceptual. Final locations must be approved by city property owners and meet City of Austin Environmental Code, including protection of tree critical root zones. Refer to the implementation section and appendices. 35 Central Williamson Creek Vision Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTLLPotential Easementor Land AcquisitionHeartwood Buyout Area Community gathering space Public Art Invasive Species Management Community Message Board Food Forest Pollinator Nesting Boxes Wildflower Planting Natural Trail Current street view looking northwest on Heartwood Dr. Green Infrastructure View after implementation Heartwood Community Garden View before implementation 36 Heartwood Dr. 37 View Northeast at Tom Donovan Park Section A-A’: Protected High Water Crossing Music Grove BYO Hammock Grove Reclaimed Brush Berms Natural Surface Trail Estimated Future 100 Year Floodplain Wildflower Meadows Green Infrastructture Stone Berm Bonded Mulch Trail Floodplain Restoration Environmental Education Signage 38 0 10 25 50 100’ 39 Central Williamson Creek Vision Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTView Northeast at Heartwood Community Garden View Northeast at Heartwood Community Garden Section B-B’: Heartwood Community Garden On-Street Bike Lanes Food Forest Floodplain Restoration Natural Surface Trail Estimated Future 100 Year Floodplain Estimated Future 25 Year Floodplain Green Infrastructure Stone Berm 40 0 10 25 50 100’ 41 Central Williamson Creek Vision Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTOrland Street Trailhead A PARD-owned site at the intersection of South 1st and Orland streets presents opportunities for creek access and amenities. This property includes outside the floodplain, meaning it can accomodate a wider variety of programming and site improvements. This flexibility allows the site to serve as a potential hub for activities such as community gardening, environmental education, nature play, and invasive species management. The site also features a steep descent into the floodplain. A boardwalk or other more extensive site improvements may be necessary to ensure creek access and connectivity. e s ti m a t e e s ti m d 100 year floodpl a i n ated 25 year f l o o d p l a i n Invasive Species Removal 42 Note: Mapped locations are conceptual. Final locations must be approved by city property owners and meet City of Austin Environmental Code, including protection of tree critical root zones. Refer to the implementation section and appendices. 43 Central Williamson Creek Vision Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFT3: Developing the Vision 44 45 Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTThe Future Central Williamson Creek Is... 1. 3. A Restored, Biodiverse Greenway Design Strategies Enhance biodiversity through floodplain restoration Reveal ecology through environmental education experiences Balance access with conserving floodplain ecology An Accessible and Visible Greenway Design Strategies Connect all communities to the creek Reveal the creek’s ecology and history Prioritize key land acquisition for trail connectivity Preserve the creek’s wild character Orient through clear wayfinding 2. Design Strategies Design Strategies Support community-built projects Integrate accessible creek experiences Create inviting gathering spaces at key nodes Integrate community agriculture and agroforestry A Community- centered Greenway Connect to public transportation and community resources Create activities for all ages 4. An Active and Connected Greenway 46 47 Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTArticulating Common Goals The four primary goals and design strategies were developed in close conversation and collaboration with the Central Williamson Creek Community Working Group, The City of Austin Working Group, and the general public. This community engagement process is described in greater detail in Chapter 4. Creak Idea Cards “Creek Idea Cards” were used as part of the community engagement process on the digital platform Social Pinpoint and at in-person, socially distanced events to gain an understanding of the types of programs, trails, amenities, and other uses the Community Working Group and general public desired along the trail. These idea cards were organized into four categories, each helping to achieve one of the four main goals of the project. Idea Card Placement The most popular idea cards were selected by the community using a digital voting activity on Social Pinpoint. After this process, the design team placed the cards along the greenway using information from existing conditions, comments on the cards, other community engagement outcomes, and conversations with the Community Working Group. Idea Card Key 1. A Restored, Biodiverse Greenway 2. A Community-Centered Greenway 3. An Accessible and Visible Greenway 4. An Active and Connected Greenway Example Idea Card Name and Description Limitations This section provides a general overview of the toolkit item. From top-left to bottom-right, these icons indicate the relative cost (low to high), appropriate age-groups (child, youth, adult), flood suitability, and whether the item could be implemented by community volunteers or by a professional contractor. Goals These icons indicate which visioning goals the toolkit item supports. From left to right, the goals are “Conserve the Creek Environment,” “Represent the Community, and “Make the Greenway Visible and Accessible.” A darkened icon indicates that the toolkit item supports the goal. Colors Sliders These sliders provide a detailed overview of the various strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities presented by each toolkit item, as well as the appropriate phase or phases during which the item could be implemented. Each toolkit item is color-coded to one of four different categories: Green for nature, blue for community, orange for access and connectivity, and red for active recreation. Community Voices Toolkit items were developed through community input and feedback. This section displays comments and quotes from community members relevant to the toolkit item. Considerations Each toolkit item comes with its own unique design considerations. Look here for important comments, caveats, and information. Pairings The success and viability of each toolkit item is strengthened when paired with other complementary items. This section provides some suggested pairings. 48 49 Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTGoal #1: A Restored, Biodiverse Greenway 1. Enhance biodiversity through floodplain restoration Williamson Creek and its floodplain are home to an abundance of aquatic and terrestrial creatures. However, this habitat is threatened by large swaths of invasive species. Floodplain restoration, including the removal of invasive species, and planting of native species, will increase biodiversity. Toolkit Items: Clean-Up Days Wildflower Planting Creek Restoration Pollinator boxes 2. Preserve the creek's wild character Central Williamson Creek Greenway will be kept as natural as possible. This reflects the desires of the neighboring community to have as little impact as possible on the ecology of the creek and to preserve the sense of wilderness in the heart of South Austin. Toolkit Items: Natural Trails Wildflower Planting Creek Restoration 3. Reveal ecology through environmental education experiences Educational experiences along the greenway will facilitate the discovery of the unique ecology, hydrology, and geology of the creek environment. Toolkit Items: Environmental education Outdoor Classroom 4. Balance access with conserving floodplain ecology The trails along Williamson Creek will maintain a safe distance from critical environmental features, such as seeps and springs, fringe wetlands, and rim rock. Low-impact trail materials and interventions will be prioritized. Toolkit Items: Natural Trails Creek Restoration s e i g e t a r t S n g i s e D 50 51 Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTInvasive Species Management Wildflower Planting Pollinator Nesting Boxes Environmental Education Signage Goal 1: A Restored, Biodiverse Greenway Goal 1 prioritizes the ecological functioning of Williamson Creek and its floodplain, as well as community-based environmental education experiences. Habitat-creation strategies, including pollinator nesting boxes for bees, bats, and nesting birds, and multiple types of restoration, may be paired with educational signage that explains the ecology and hydrology of the creek and its importance to urban wildlife. Reclaimed branch berms and stone berms slow the flow of water, create habitat, and delineate trail and property edges using natural materials. Green infrastructure infiltrates and filters water before it enters the creek. Lansin g Dr Emerald Wood Dr Meadow Creek Dr. R a m ble L n S 1st St. Note: Mapped locations are conceptual. Final locations must be approved by city property owners and meet City of Austin Environmental Code, including protection of tree critical root zones. Refer to the implementation section and appendices. gress Ave n o S C 53 d. a R c a h c n e M Legend Proposed Trail Stone Berms Floodplain Safe Boundary Creek and Tributaries Geology Highlight Seep/Spring Fringe Wetland Restoration Creek + Woodland Restoration Green Infrastructure Rim Rock / CEF Wildflower Meadow Est. 100-Year Floodplain Est. 25-Year Floodplain City Property 0 500 1000ft Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCreek Idea Cards 54 Note: Mapped locations are conceptual. Final locations must be approved by city property owners and meet City of Austin Environmental Code, including protection of tree critical root zones. Refer to the implementation section and appendices. 55 Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFT56 57 Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTGoal #2: A Community-Centered Greenway 1. Support community-built projects Improvements to the Central Williamson Creek Greenway have historically been initiated and completed by passionate community members. These community-led projects will be further encouraged with funding from local grant-giving organizations. Toolkit Items: Labryinth Public Art 2. Create inviting gathering spaces at key nodes Investments in community gathering spaces at PARD and WPD properties will establish new opportunities for community connection and togetherness at trailheads, community gardens, restoration sites, and outdoor education areas along the greenway. Toolkit Items: Hammock Groves Benches Gathering Spaces 3. Integrate community agriculture and agroforestry There are currently two community gardens along Central Williamson Creek Greenway. As the neighborhood grows, there will be increased interest in establishing more gardens. Much of the buy-out land represents a significant opportunity for groves of fruit and nut trees. Toolkit Items: Community Gardens Food Forest s e i g e t a r t S n g i s e D 58 59 Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTBYO Hammock Grove Community Garden Community Message Boards Labyrinth Music Grove Nature Play Area Food Forest Goal 2: A Community-Centered Greenway Goal 2 focuses on the community and social aspects of the greenway. Community-built projects, such as food forests, community gardens, and labyrinths, are placed at major trailheads to create places for social connectedness in the neighborhood. Visitors to the greenway can learn about local events at Community Message boards, where organized volunteer opportunities can be posted. d. a R c a h c n e M Lansin g Dr Legend City Property Proposed Trail Creek and Tributaries Food Forest Trees 60 Emerald Wood Dr Meadow Creek Dr. R a m ble L n S 1st St. Note: Mapped locations are conceptual. Final locations must be approved by city property owners and meet City of Austin Environmental Code, including protection of tree critical root zones. Refer to the implementation section and appendices. gress Ave n o S C 61 Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCreek Idea Cards 62 63 Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFT64 65 Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTGoal #3: An Accessible and visible Greenway 1. Connect all communities to the creek with low-impact trails Central Williamson Creek Greenway is a local recreational amenity that should be easily accessible to all surrounding communities through a distributed network of clear, visible trailheads and trails that minimize impacts to the environment. Toolkit Items: Natural Trails Toolkit Items: Signage 2. Orient through clear wayfinding Continuous signage along the creek and at trailheads will orient visitors as they enter the creek and make their way along the trail or to neighborhood resources, such as community gardens, schools, and convenience stores. 3. Reveal the creek’s hydrology, ecology, and history Central Williamson Creek Greenway has an abundance of interesting natural features, such as rim rock, fringe wetlands, evidence of past volcanic activity. Educational signage along the trail will reveal their stories. Toolkit Items: Environmental Education 4. Prioritize key land acquisition and easements for trail connectivity Land acquisition from private property owners adjacent to the creek will create a continuous, connected trail along the Central Williamson Creek Greenway. Toolkit Items: Land Acquisition and Easements s e i g e t a r t S n g i s e D 66 67 Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTLansin g Dr T T d. a R c a h c n e M Legend T Trailhead Proposed Trail High Water Route Creek and Tributaries City Property A Land Acquisition or Easement Wayfinding Signage Weather Warning Signage Goal 3: An Accessible and Visible Greenway Goal 3 highlights the community desire to make the greenway easily accessed and easy to enter from the street. Well-distributed wayfinding signage both on the street and in the greenway will help visitors orient themselves. Weather warning signage will warn community members of predicted storm events and fast- flowing water in the creek. Land acquisition will increase accessibility of the greenway, so visitors can use one, continuous path from S. Congress Avenue to Menchaca Road. T A T T Emerald Wood Dr Meadow Creek Dr. R a m ble L n A A T gress Ave n o S C 69 68 0 500 1000ft S 1st St. Note: Mapped locations are conceptual. Final locations must be approved by city property owners and meet City of Austin Environmental Code, including protection of tree critical root zones. Refer to the implementation section and appendices. Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCreek Idea Cards 70 71 Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTGoal #4: An Active and Connected Greenway 1. Connect to Public Transportation and Community Resources Completion of a continuous trail along Williamson Creek provides an enormous opportunity for an east-west trail connection throughout south Austin. This trail will connect the surrounding neighborhoods to existing and future destinations, such as bus stops, convenience stores, schools, community gardens, and other community resources. Toolkit Items: Bike Racks Mountain Biking Trails 2. Design for Accessible Creek Experiences Central Williamson Creek will provide key ADA-accessible creek experiences for those of all abilities. Toolkit Items: Paths Toolkit Items: Fitness Programs 3. Integrate Activities for All Ages Trailheads and other community gathering spaces will include active and educational activities for all ages, from outdoor classrooms for children to environmental education signage for all ages. At large trailheads, lawns will provide open spaces for all-ages community events and fitness programs. s e i g e t a r t S n g i s e D 72 73 Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTd. a R c a h c n e M Lansin g Dr Crosswalk Proposed Trail Existing Bike Lanes Proposed Bike Lanes Proposed Mountain Bike Trail High Water Route Distance Markers Proposed Trail Connections City Property Legend 74 Mountain Biking Fitness Programming Future Bergstrom Spur Urban Trail Goal 4: An Active and Connected Greenway Goal 4 prioritizes active recreation along the greenway and how trail connections to neighborhood bike routes, adjacent urban trails, and neighborhood resources can make Central Williamson Creek Greenway a key east-to-west hike and bike trail that makes active transportation easy and improves community health. The creation of a “high water route” along urban streets (shown in orange) ensures that the trail will be usable even when the creek is flowing after a rain. Emerald Wood Dr Meadow Creek Dr. R a m ble L n S 1st St. Note: Mapped locations are conceptual. Final locations must be approved by city property owners and meet City of Austin Environmental Code, including protection of tree critical root zones. Refer to the implementation section and appendices. gress Ave n o S C 75 Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCreek Idea Cards 76 Note: Mapped locations are conceptual. Final locations must be approved by city property owners and meet City of Austin Environmental Code, including protection of tree critical root zones. Refer to the implementation section and appendices. 77 Central Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFTCentral Williamson Creek Greenway Vision Plan DRAFT