The Pfluger Circle, once a hot, uninspiring Bermuda grass circle, is now a peaceful gathering spot filled with flowering desert willows, Anacacho orchid trees, palmettos, and other native plants. The long, silvery stems of the ponyfoot have created solid green walls to balance the concrete bridge. The stone blocks offer Trail users a place to rest or meet at this major intersection along the Trail.
The Austin firm of Ten Eyck Landscape Architects designed the enhancement. Ten Eyck wove architecture and landscape into an engaging, restorative, and multi-sensory garden that delights Trail users, uses the rainwater runoff, and creates a gathering place at this major intersection of the Pfluger Bridge and the Trail.
Pfluger Bridge Circle Awards: 2011 Keep Austin Beautiful Runner-up Award – Beautification.
History of the James D. Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge
The James D. Pfluger Pedestrian and Bicycle Bridge opened in 2001, creating a safe and scenic connection between the north and south shores of Lady Bird Lake along the Ann & Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail. The bridge was built in response to growing safety concerns for pedestrians and cyclists crossing the nearby Lamar Boulevard Bridge, whose narrow sidewalks and heavy traffic made the crossing dangerous. Named in honor of Austin architect James D. Pfluger, who helped design key portions of the Trail system and champion public access to the lake, the bridge features a distinctive double-curved design that has become one of Austin’s most recognizable landmarks. A north-side extension connecting the bridge to downtown was completed in 2011.
Today, the Pfluger Bridge Circle serves as a gathering place at the bridge’s north landing, welcoming Trail users and offering iconic views of downtown Austin and Lady Bird Lake.
The family and friends of Barry S. Gillingwater
Michael & Susan Dell Foundation
