Editor’s note: The above video is from previous KXAN coverage that was published on July 26, 2023.
AUSTIN (KXAN) — A law that took effect at the beginning of last month ensures that a 100-mile trail connecting some of Texas’ historic sites and water springs will be completed within the next decade.
The trail will link Austin and San Antonio together, along with four springs: Barton, Comal, San Marcos and San Antonio springs, in a trail network that runs from the Alamo to the State Capitol.
HB 4230 was introduced in the 89th Legislative Session and passed. The bill, authored by House Representative Will Metcalf, and its companion bill, SB 1520, by Sen. Donna Campbell, establish the Texas Bicentennial Trail.
A release from the Texas General Land Office (GLO) stated that the signing of HB 4230 established the Texas Bicentennial Trail “to promote Texas’ rich historical and cultural heritage, provide for increased outdoor recreation, and enhance economic development in the state.”
The new law directs the General Land Office, Texas Department of Transportation, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, local governments, and nonprofit organizations like Great Springs Project to establish the 100-mile trail by connecting existing and new trails, GLO’s release said.
Plans for this trail network have been in the works for a while. The Great Springs Project, a local nonprofit, launched its endeavors in 2021 to create the trail system by 2036. The bills officially establish state plans and coordination for it.
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The Great Springs Project will create a 100-mile trail system by 2036 that will link the two cities together, along with four springs: Barton, Comal, San Marcos and San Antonio springs. (Courtesy: Great Springs Project) -
The Great Springs Project will create a 100-mile trail system by 2036 that will link the two cities together, along with four springs: Barton, Comal, San Marcos and San Antonio springs. Courtesy: Great Springs Project -
The Great Springs Project will create a 100-mile trail system by 2036 that will link the two cities together, along with four springs: Barton, Comal, San Marcos and San Antonio springs. Courtesy: Great Springs Project
HB 4230 also requires that the land office complete the trail by Jan. 1, 2036, to mark 200 years of Texas.
The bill reads that the land office must coordinate with political subdivisions, nonprofit organizations, the Texas Department of Transportation, the Parks and Wildlife Department, and others to establish and maintain the trail, acquire property for the trail, and coordinate trail development, maintenance, and conservation efforts.
Land for the trail cannot be acquired through eminent domain, per the bill.
More information and details about the trail can be found on the Great Springs Project’s website in its Trails Plan document.
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Photo of Barton Springs.
The Great Springs Project will create a 100-mile trail system by 2036 that will link the two cities together, along with four springs: Barton, Comal, San Marcos and San Antonio springs. Courtesy: Great Springs Project -
Photo of Comal Springs.
The Great Springs Project will create a 100-mile trail system by 2036 that will link the two cities together, along with four springs: Barton, Comal, San Marcos and San Antonio springs. Courtesy: Great Springs Project -
Photo of Comal Springs.
The Great Springs Project will create a 100-mile trail system by 2036 that will link the two cities together, along with four springs: Barton, Comal, San Marcos and San Antonio springs. Courtesy: Great Springs Project -
Photo of Headwaters Sanctuary.
The Great Springs Project will create a 100-mile trail system by 2036 that will link the two cities together, along with four springs: Barton, Comal, San Marcos and San Antonio springs. Courtesy: Great Springs Project -
Photo of Salado Creek Greenway.
The Great Springs Project will create a 100-mile trail system by 2036 that will link the two cities together, along with four springs: Barton, Comal, San Marcos and San Antonio springs. Courtesy: Great Springs Project -
Photo at San Antonio Springs.
The Great Springs Project will create a 100-mile trail system by 2036 that will link the two cities together, along with four springs: Barton, Comal, San Marcos and San Antonio springs. Courtesy: Great Springs Project -
Photo of San Marcos Springs.
The Great Springs Project will create a 100-mile trail system by 2036 that will link the two cities together, along with four springs: Barton, Comal, San Marcos and San Antonio springs. Courtesy: Great Springs Project
Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, M.D. released the following statement regarding the passage of the bills:
“The General Land Office is thrilled to work with state agencies, local governments, and organizations to commemorate the 200th Anniversary of Texas’ independence with the Texas Bicentennial Trail. This sprawling network of nature trails, renowned geographical locations, and historical landmarks will inspire Texans and millions of annual visitors to explore our state’s unique beauty and history, boosting our robust economy.”
The Great Springs Project posted about the bill on Instagram last month, stating in part, “Exciting times are ahead for trail development and land conservation in the San Antonio-Austin region!”
The post caption continued with a statement from the nonprofit’s CEO, Garry Merrit: “In celebration of the Texas Bicentennial in 2036, Great Springs Project is honored to partner with GLO, TPWD, TxDOT, cities, counties, and others to complete the spring-to-spring trail from the Alamo to the Capitol. The trail will connect Texans with nature, promote economic development, and preserve the greatness of Texas’ natural resources.”
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