Austin, August 11, 2025
News Summary
The Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail in Austin will face intermittent closures for the next eight years due to the TxDOT’s I-35 Capital Express Project. While full closures will mainly occur at night, some sections may close for up to a week several times a year. Concerns from locals about access to this key recreational area have been voiced, especially amidst ongoing traffic issues. TxDOT assures continued trail access and safety throughout the construction which aims for completion by 2033.
Austin’s Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail Faces Intermittent Closures Due to I-35 Capital Express Project Over Next Eight Years
The Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail alongside Lady Bird Lake in Austin, Texas, will experience intermittent closures over the next eight years as part of the Texas Department of Transportation’s (TxDOT) I-35 Capital Express Central Project. This initiative involves reconstructing the I-35 bridge that crosses over Lady Bird Lake, which has raised concerns among residents regarding community access to this vital recreational spot.
While full closures of the trail will be limited to late-night hours between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m., select sections of the trail may see closures lasting up to a week, occurring three times a year. Local residents have expressed significant worries about how these closures will affect their use of the trail, highlighting its importance as a community gathering location.
Initial activities for the project have already commenced, with crews moving equipment underneath the bridge, prompting the closure of the parking lot beneath it. In addition to the trail closures, TxDOT has announced plans to build a dock on Lady Bird Lake this fall. By mid-2026, construction for a new pedestrian bridge will begin, with the full reconstruction of the existing bridge slated for completion by the end of 2026.
Residents have voiced not only their concerns about the trail access but also frustrations over the overall traffic impacts from I-35 on the community. TxDOT has committed to ensuring access to the trail remains a priority throughout the duration of the project, emphasizing safety measures for users.
The I-35 Capital Express Central Project is set to be completed by 2033. However, the timeline for this ambitious project comes amid challenges, including a significant loss of $105 million in federal funding for another related initiative—Austin’s Interstate 35 cap-and-stitch project. This project aimed to create much-needed parks and pedestrian connections between East Austin and Downtown. The funding cuts were a direct result of changes in the federal budget under the “One Big Beautiful Bill” signed by the former president.
The funds that were lost had been designated to cover the design and construction expenses for implementing parks and amenities over the busy highway, putting further strain on the city’s ability to fund important urban improvement initiatives. The city is now actively seeking alternative funding sources to address the budget shortfalls for this project.
In an effort to address the financial gaps, the Austin City Council recently approved a proposal to allocate $104 million towards financing four sections of the cap-and-stitch project. Various funding options are being explored, including visitor and car rental taxes along with state loans, while avoiding property taxes. However, some council members have suggested postponing or even abandoning the project due to budgetary constraints and other higher priority needs within the city.
The City Council plans to assess the status of the cap-and-stitch project in 2026, with discussions on possible funding solutions expected to take place around 2028-2029. These developments prompt significant discussions about the future of connectivity and urban infrastructure in Austin.
Summary of Key Information
- Project: I-35 Capital Express Central Project.
- Location: Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail, Austin, Texas.
- Closure Duration: Intermittent closures for eight years, full closures mainly at night.
- First Activity: Equipment moved under the bridge causing parking lot closures.
- Pedestrian Bridge Construction Start: Mid-2026.
- Overall Project Completion: By 2033.
- Funding Loss: $105 million for the cap-and-stitch project.
- City Council Funding Proposal: $104 million for parts of the cap-and-stitch project.
- Funding Discussions: Expected 2026-2029.
FAQ
What is the I-35 Capital Express Central Project?
It is a Texas Department of Transportation initiative to reconstruct the I-35 bridge over Lady Bird Lake, causing intermittent closures to the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail.
How long are the closures expected to last?
Closures may last up to a week at a time, happening three times a year, with full closures mainly during late-night hours.
What is the cap-and-stitch project?
It is a project aimed at creating parks and pedestrian connections between East Austin and Downtown, which lost $105 million in federal funding.
When will the project be completed?
The I-35 Capital Express Central Project is expected to be completed by 2033.
What measures are being taken to ensure trail safety during closures?
TxDOT has assured the community that they are committed to maintaining access to and ensuring the safety of the trail throughout the project.
Key Features of Projects in Austin
| Project | Type | Completion Year | Closures | Funding |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I-35 Capital Express Central Project | Bridge Reconstruction | 2033 | Intermittent, mainly at night | State and local funding |
| Cap-and-Stitch Project | Parks and Pedestrian Connections | Not determined | N/A | Lost federal funding, seeking alternatives |
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Additional Resources
- KVUE News: Lady Bird Lake City Parks Impacts
- Wikipedia: I-35
- KVUE News: Federal Funds Cut for I-35
- Google Search: I-35 Capital Express Central Project
- CBS Austin: Ann and Roy Butler Trail Closures
- Google Scholar: I-35 Capital Express Central Project
- KXAN News: Feds Withdraw Funds for I-35 Project
- Encyclopedia Britannica: I-35 Capital Express Central Project
- Spectrum Local News: Federal Funds Cut for I-35
- Google News: I-35 Capital Express Central Project
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
