Photo by Lars Frazer Photo
After debuting the first phase of benches in 2018, The Trail Conservancy created ten additional spaces for rest, contemplation, and remembrance along the 1.2 mile Boardwalk on the Butler Trail this fall. Whether you’re enjoying the lake views, taking a stretch break, fishing, or more, these Boardwalk benches are installed at the overlook points for all to enjoy. Through The Trail Foundation’s Adopt a Bench program, members of the public are able to honor and dedicate these benches to loved ones.
About the New Benches
In 2015, a devastating flash flood in Wimberley, Texas uprooted thousands of mature trees along the Blanco River, just south of Austin. Harvest Lumber Company recovered several of these Bald Cypress logs to be used for the bench construction, aligning with TTF’s prioritization of ecological restoration.
The new benches were designed by landscape architecture firm Studio Balcones and the high-quality fabrication was completed by Hatch Workshop. They are inspired by artist Sol Lewitt to blend harmoniously with the surrounding built and natural environments.
Through this project, these trees will be preserved indefinitely and repurposed in a way that is functional, beautiful, and desired by Trail users every year.
How to Adopt
Adopting a Boardwalk bench is an impactful way to personalize a part of the Trail and honor a loved one. There are only two benches remaining for adoption, located on the Boardwalk below I-35. Please note: There are currently no adoptable benches available in other areas on the Trail.
Adoption, a dedication plaque, and maintenance are included in the adoption fee. The adoption fee is $12,500 for 10 years or $25,000 in perpetuity. Adopters receive first right of refusal to renew for another decade.
Benches Available for Adoption
*Plaques have 2 customizable lines with 120 characters on each line and every space and punctuation mark count as a character. The first line of the plaque is non-customizable and says “In Honor of”. Names only can be listed, no phrases, or sentences.
**Due to the length of adoption and for first right of refusal, next of kin contact information is required.
Disclaimers and Contact Information
Annual maintenance is covered in the costs of the bench adoption, however, please be aware that the wood will be allowed to naturally weather over time. Depending on depth, any carved vandalism will be sanded off. If you notice that your bench has been defaced, please contact The Trail Conservancy directly.
Bench prices are subject to change.
