Project Overview

The mission of the Trail Foundation (TTF) is to protect and enhance the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake in Austin. TTF works to improve the Trail with infrastructural and environmental projects. In preparation for future projects, including a new restroom at Heron Creek, TTF wanted to engage visitors to support an upcoming design process with Mel Lawrence Architects. Using arts-based techniques, Civic Arts led the community engagement process, which comprised an on-site installation and a Trail User survey (collected online and on-site). The primary goals of the project were to celebrate the Trail and the work of The Trail Foundation; gather Trail User feedback about the upcoming Heron Creek Restroom design; and gather user perspectives to inform future design efforts.

For the on-site installation, a visual timeline 36 feet in length was constructed for a one-week period. The timeline featured photos of the Trail’s history and a map of the Trail itself. Trail users were invited to write down their own history as it intersected with the Trail and to identify spots linked to their personal memories on the map. An orange picnic bench was also placed on-site to draw the attention of passersby and serve as a space for engaging  users in longer conversations. Over 1,700 comments were gathered, filling the front of the boards and stretching onto the backs. A survey followed the on-site installation, asking Trail users further questions about perceptions of the site and its potential development. Within 10 days, over 500 responses were gathered.

It was abundantly clear throughout the process that Austinites and the city’s visitors adore the Trail.  It is both physical and emotionally part of Austin’s central identity; people go there to feel healthy and connected. Through responses gathered on-site and online, Trail users conveyed a rich picture of how they think about the Trail and offered specific ideas to guide the future design processes.

About the Team

The Trail Foundation →

North Loop Signs →

Mel Lawrence Architects →

Project Location

Services Provided

Community Engagement • Installation Design • Survey Design and Analysis

Project Links

Using Memories to Inspire Projects. KXAN news, Feb 18, 2013. 
Trail Users to Inspire Restroom Remodel. YNN news, Feb 16, 2013.