Holly Park has confirmed plans to modify its infrastructure with the creation of new features, including a fishing pier.
The initiative forms part of The Holly Project, previously known as Holly Point, to improve sections of the Hike-and-Bike Trail along Lady Bird Lake in the Holly Shores area of East Austin.
The Trail Foundation is tasked with leading the nonprofit initiative to connect the Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake for the benefit of all. The plan seeks to add an additional nine acres to the parkland’s existing 90 acres, consisting of individual parks such as Edward Rendon Sr. Park at Festival Beach, Fiesta Gardens, the Manuel And Robert Donley Pocket Park and Metz Park. The changes also include a hike and bike trail, new plantings, seating and lighting, and the ADA accessible fishing pier, Austin Towers reports.
“The vision plan goals emerged out of a robust and open community process and represent many voices and opinions,” the Trail Foundation stated.
The step also represents the early stages of a major upgrade involving the large tract of shoreline city parkland on the north banks of Lady Bird Lake, popularly known as Holly Shores.
“The overarching call was for this place to remain first and foremost a neighborhood park, and many of the goals stemming from that are concerned with better connectivity, openness and integration between the various park elements, so that the park itself will continue to encourage connectivity within the community,” the foundation said.
According to Austin Towers, the decommissioned Holly Power Plant grounds, said to have suffered a long period of neglect, also aided by the Corgan Canopy Fund, was previously predicted to begin construction planning and actual permitting stage last year.
“An emphasis on the natural environment, a tranquil and pastoral character and park comfort will make Holly Shores an even better place to find a moment of respite from the stresses of city life," the foundation wrote.