Bench Program
Adopting a bench is a wonderful way to honor a loved one or give a meaningful gift. When you adopt a bench, TTC will install a personalized plaque to recognize the adoption.Â
The fee for adopting a bench is $30,000 for perpetuity or $15,000 for ten years, with the first right of refusal for renewal. This fee covers the cost of the dedication plaque and maintenance of the bench. years with the first right of refusal for renewal. This fee includes a dedication plaque and maintenance for the bench.Â
Dedication plaques include a non-customizable line that reads “In Honor Of” followed by a customizable message and names. There are 360 characters available (120 per line), which include letters, numbers, blank spaces, and punctuation.Â
The cost of the bench adoption covers annual maintenance. However, know that the wood will be allowed to weather naturally over time. Depending on the depth, any carved vandalism will be sanded off. If you notice your bench has been defaced, please get in touch with us directly.
If you have questions about the program or need to report damage to a bench, email adoptions@thetrailconservancy.org.
THE BOARDWALK
STATUS:
TWO AVAILABLE
In 2018, TTC introduced benches designed by Studio Balcones along the 1.2-mile stretch of the Boardwalk. The benches were designed to blend harmoniously with the surrounding built and natural environments. Constructed of reclaimed white oak trees collected by the City of Austin’s Urban Forestry program and fabricated by Hatch Workshop, the benches are a physical representation of Austin’s commitment to ecological restoration.Â
RAINEY STREET TRAILHEAD
STATUS:
NONE AVAILABLE
The new Rainey Street Trailhead connects the bustling Rainey Street District to the Butler Trail and Lady Bird Lake with a plush new park, native plant area, and nature play feature. The new park features park benches for quiet breaks to sit and enjoy the views of the lake and local landscape.Â
HOLLY SHORES FISHING PIER
STATUS:
FOUR AVAILABLE
The Holly Shores Fishing Pier (currently under renovation) is located just west of the decommissioned Holly Power Plant at Festival Beach, adjacent to the lagoon and the baseball fields. This area is located in the heart of the East Cesar Chavez and Holly Neigborhoods. The renovated area will feature two styles of benches designed to blend into the nature of this peaceful area. Â
LONGHORN DAM PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE
STATUS:
TWENTY-EIGHT AVAILABLE
Austin design firm, Lemmo Architecture and Design, has been selected through an open call to create benches that will line the new Longhorn Dam Pedestrian Bridge. The bridge is expected to open in 2025, creating a safe new connection across Lady Bird Lake. The benches will be made of reclaimed/salvaged hardwood from oak, birch, and maple trees, and they will feature light tones that are weatherproofed. Additionally, the benches will be accented with powder-coated steel in shades that honor the neighborhood’s Hispanic roots, history, and culture.
