Best Pedestrian Bridge
Longhorn Dam Multimodal Improvement Project - Austin, Texas
Located in Austin, Texas, the Longhorn Dam Multimodal Improvement Project adds a new wishbone-shaped pedestrian and bicycle bridge over Lady Bird Lake at Longhorn Dam. The three-pronged configuration connects the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at three separate points: southern Longhorn Shores, the Holly Peninsula to the north, and Canterbury-area connections.
More than a crossing, the project completes missing links in the trail network, replaces older pedestrian connections, and reconfigures smaller bridges and ramps to fit the new alignment. Landscaping, shade structures, and placemaking elements support a safer, more enjoyable experience for everyday users.
Fast Facts
Award: Best Pedestrian Bridge
Project: Longhorn Dam Multimodal Improvement Project
Location: Austin, Texas
Bridge Type: Wishbone-shaped pedestrian + bicycle bridge
Precast Manufacturer: Heldenfels Enterprises, Inc. (San Marcos, TX)
General Contractor: Jay-Reese Contractors, Inc. (Dripping Springs, TX)
Structural Engineer: Structural Engineering Association (San Antonio, TX)
Precast Scope: ~3,000 linear feet of slabs and beams s
Delivery Window: February–June 2025
Video runtime: approx. 2:08
Why the “wishbone” matters
The wishbone configuration was chosen so pedestrians and cyclists can travel between multiple shoreline points without long detours. The central intersection is treated as a plaza or landing zone where users can pause and enjoy the views.
Compared to older, narrower crossings, the bridge provides dedicated space for both pedestrians and cyclists, improving safety and circulation along one of Austin’s most used trail systems.
Precast delivery + installation logisticsHeldenfels supplied approximately 3,000 linear feet of precast slabs and beams. Deliveries occurred between February and June 2025.
Because of the site constraints, the large TX62 beams were backed down the jogging trail, unloaded onto barges, transported out to the caps, and set using two cranes on floating barges.
Project Team:
- Precast Manufacturer: Heldenfels Enterprises, Inc. (San Marcos, TX)
- General Contractor: Jay-Reese Contractors, Inc. (Dripping Springs, TX)
- Structural Engineer: Structural Engineering Association (San Antonio, TX)
PCMA Associates
Alamo Cement Company • DS Brown Company • Hamilton Form Company, Ltd • Insteel Wire Products • MI-JACK Products • Structural Engineering Associates, Inc. • CTBX Inc.
FAQ
What is the Longhorn Dam Multimodal Improvement Project?
A multimodal improvement in Austin that adds a new wishbone-shaped pedestrian and bicycle bridge over Lady Bird Lake at Longhorn Dam to connect three trail points and complete missing links.
What does the wishbone-shaped bridge connect?
It connects the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at southern Longhorn Shores, the Holly Peninsula, and Canterbury-area connections.
Why was precast concrete used?
Precast enabled efficient fabrication and delivery of approximately 3,000 linear feet of slabs and beams, supporting complex, site-constrained installation logistics.
How were the beams installed at the jobsite?
Large TX62 beams were backed down the jogging trail, transferred to barges, floated to the caps, and set using two cranes on floating barges.
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