Skip the busy trails the next time you want to head out for a jog, and take advantage of the opening of more neighborhood streets for walking, running and cycling. Austin City Council approved the Healthy Streets Initiative in May, which includes the closure of select local streets to provide safer pedestrian and bike access, and now they have added even more streets to the plan.
As noted on the City of Austin website, “The Healthy Streets Initiative was developed with the context that the COVID-19 pandemic is changing many aspects of how residents live and move throughout Austin.” Essentially, the aim is to give residents more space to spread out and enjoy outdoor exercise. Note that even on streets that are closed, they will maintain local access for residents, deliveries, and emergency vehicles.
Current Healthy Streets include:
- Bouldin Ave. / S 3rd St. / Garden Villa Ln. from Banister Ln. to Barton Springs Rd.
- Comal St. from Manor Rd. to Lady Bird Lake
- Country Club Creek Trail extension (Trail, Wickersham Ln., Ventura Dr., Madera Dr.) from Mabel Davis Park to Lakeshore Dr.
- Riverside Dr. from Lamar Blvd. to South 1st St.
- Pleasant Valley Rd. from Canterbury St. To S. Lakeshore Blvd.
Additional Healthy Streets to be implemented in the coming weeks:
- Avenue G from 38th Street to 56th Street in Central Austin
- Belfast Drive from Broadmoor Drive to Cameron Road in Northeast Austin
The Austin Transportation department would ideally like to add more batches of streets to allow for people in all parts of the city to have access to spaces that promote physical health. You’re encouraged to give your feedback by filling out this quick survey.
