Title
Authorizing the City Manager to execute an agreement with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) for a National Recreational Trails Fund grant for $172,500.
Summary
The Gilleland Creek Trail project will provide for the construction of 0.56 miles of trail closing an existing gap along a very scenic vista of Gilleland Creek which runs through the heart of the city of Pflugerville. This trail expansion provides new trail enhancement opportunities as this segment of trail will link the easternmost and westernmost sections of the existing trail. Currently, the existing trail terminates at the intersections of Heatherwilde Blvd. on the western end and at Swenson Farms Blvd. on the eastern end. This segment will allow for connectivity of two existing non-contiguous segments (western segment - 1.04 miles and eastern segment - 4.97 miles) and create a 6.57 mile continuous trail. The City’s existing trail system is 39.01 miles.
This natural trail will offer residents a different type of trail experience through an ever-changing landscape. Trails will be sensitively planned to follow the edges between the open grassland and the wooded creek, taking advantage of the natural gateways and vistas. The trail will bypass both the Heatherwilde Blvd. and Swenson Farm Blvd. intersections by running under the existing bridge structures at both locations. This will create an accommodation for barrier-free access and enhance safety for pedestrians while meeting all Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements. The trail will run parallel to Pfennig Lane and perpendicular to Heatherwilde Blvd. and Swenson Farm Blvd. near the existing sidewalk and trail terminus. Trail amenities will include outdoor seating and interpretive signage to enhance environmental education.
Status
A grant application was submitted to the TPWD in January 2013. The TPWD Commission awarded the grant in May 2013. Staff received written notification in June 2013 of the intent to award th...
Click here for full text