Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge

Take a beautiful stroll along the James D. Pfluger Pedestrian and Bicycle Bridge spanning Lady Bird Lake in downtown Austin Texas, featuring an unusual “double curve” design.

What to Know

Looking for a scenic and active way to explore the beautiful city of Austin? Look no further than the James D. Pfluger Pedestrian and Bicycle Bridge. This shared-use bridge, opened in 2001, spans the picturesque Lady Bird Lake in downtown Austin, connecting the north and south sides of the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail.

But this bridge is not just any ordinary bridge, it boasts an architectural design that is truly one-of-a-kind. The bridge's "double curve" structure adds a modern and artistic flair, making it a must-see attraction for both locals and visitors alike. This unique design makes for a visually striking and memorable experience as you cycle or walk across the bridge, taking in the stunning views of the lake and the city.

Additionally, the bridge runs parallel to the Lamar Boulevard Bridge, which carries road traffic across the lake, roughly 200 feet (61 m) to the west, making it easy for you to enjoy the serene views while still being close to the city. Whether you're a resident or a tourist, the James D. Pfluger Pedestrian and Bicycle Bridge is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and uniqueness of Austin. So make your way over to Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge for a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

How to Get There 

The Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge is nestled on 222 West Ave, Austin, Texas, and can be easily reached on foot or by bus. But the best way to get there is by booking a Guided Austin Tour which will save you the hassle of everything — from navigating your way through the city to this tourist spot to pick-up and drop-off! This trip will also let you explore the famous Texas Capitol and other sites of interest. You will also get to enjoy a scenic Austin cruise with a view of the city's skyline and more!

Best Time to Visit 

The best time to take a stroll on this bridge with idyllic views of Austin is definitely when the weather is cool and pleasant! You can however plan a visit whenever you want as this attraction's open year-round!

Highlights

If you're looking for a unique and picturesque walking or biking experience, look no further than the James D. Pfluger Pedestrian and Bicycle Bridge in downtown Austin, Texas. Spanning the beautiful Lady Bird Lake, this bridge boasts an architectural design that is sure to catch your eye. The bridge's "double curve" structure adds a modern and artistic flair, making it a must-see attraction for both locals and visitors alike. So grab your walking shoes or hop on your bike, and take a leisurely stroll or ride along the James D. Pfluger Pedestrian and Bicycle Bridge for a truly unforgettable experience.

Features

A trip to Austin is not complete without taking a stroll on this bridge offering an idyllic view of the Austin skyline! Spanning a grand 700 feet over the serene Lady Bird Lake, this bridge is the perfect way to take in the stunning views of the city.

The famous Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail connects the James D. Pfluger Pedestrian and Bicycle Bridge on both its north and south sides, making the bridge a convenient and accessible option for both locals and tourists. The bridge is supported by a string of curved concrete piers, giving it a sleek and modern look. The resilience of its deck comes from its structural elements made with concrete and (weathering) steel curved plate girders.

What makes weathering steel special is the fact that it oxidizes gradually unlike other metals. This gradual oxidation forms a protective coating that needs minimal upkeep! This feature and the bridge's remarkable design add to its aesthetic appeal and make it a one-of-a-kind attraction.

So, whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a scenic bike ride, head over to the James D. Pfluger Pedestrian and Bicycle Bridge to experience the beauty of Lady Bird Lake and the unique double-curve design of this shared-use bridge.

History

The Lamar Boulevard Bridge in Austin, Texas, was built in the 1980s to cross Lady Bird Lake. It had no dedicated bike lanes and narrow sidewalks, which caused safety concerns for pedestrians and cyclists and prompted discussions on widening the bridge. However, the Texas Historical Commission emphasized that the Lamar Boulevard Bridge had been added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1994 due to its historical significance, and could not be changed. As a solution to this conundrum, a separate pedestrian bridge was proposed and eventually built by local architects and engineers. 

This bridge was opened to the public on June 16, 2001, spanning the picturesque Lady Bird Lake – then called "Town Lake". It offered spectacular views of the city's skyline and the surrounding attractions as well as practical advantages for both pedestrians and vehicles! It was named James D. Pfluger Pedestrian and Bicycle Bridge and had a "double curve" design that connects the north and south trail systems.