Join Austin’s two largest non-profit park partners – The Trail Conservancy and Waterloo Greenway Conservancy – for a guided walk through downtown that highlights two transformative public park projects: The Confluence at Waller Creek and the Rainey Street Trailhead on Lady Bird Lake.
These two projects showcase how sustainability, ecological restoration, and environmental protections can be thoughtfully integrated into urban green spades. Built on public parkland in partnership with the City of Austin, both sites reflect a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and public benefit.
At Waterloo Greenway Conservancy’s Confluence, you’ll experience a lush 13-acre landscape that enhances ecosystem functions, improves air quality, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and combats the urban heat island effect. This area includes the most ecologically rich and diverse section of Waller Creek.
Nearby, The Trail Conservancy’s Rainey Street Trailhead serves as a vital gateway to connect the Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail to the rapidly growing Rainey Street District. This 2-acre hub enhances ecological health, expands recreational opportunities, and improves access to nature for both the neighborhood and the broader Trail community.
During the walk, leaders from both organizations will share lessons learned from navigating the unique opportunities and challenges of operating as nonprofit partners on public land in a dense urban environment. From public-private collaboration to long-term stewardship, the tour will emphasize the importance of “designing with maintenance in mind” to ensure lasting success.
Note: This tour is two-miles of walking and all portions of the tour are not ADA compliant.