Shoal Creek Bike Bridge closed for at least 2 weeks

Just got word from city staff that the Shoal Creek Pedestrian/Bike bridge at 3rd street is gonna be closed for a little while:

The bridge over Shoal Creek on the Shoal Creek Trail that connects to 3rd Street will be closed starting this week for at least two weeks.

There will be signs indicating the preferred alternative route.

Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.

Nadia M. Barrera
Bicycle/Pedestrian Project Coordinator
Department of Public Works
City of Austin
512-974-7142
(f) 512-974-7101
nadia.barrera@ci.austin.tx.us

Damn, I take that bridge all the time. As to why they're shutting it down for 2 weeks, here's the info on that:

Work to begin connection to the 24” water line on the aerial crossing along the western side of the pedestrian bridge is scheduled to begin at some point this week depending on weather conditions. A full closure of the pedestrian bridge as well as the incoming portions of the hike and bike trails will be necessary in the early construction phase as part of the retaining walls in the areas will be removed. I will notify the staff at 360 today and continue to provide you with updates regarding the status of construction and access to the hike and bike trail. My best estimate for the length of the trail closure would be 2 weeks. We will try to expedite repairs and renovation of the area to minimize this time frame.

Hopefully they can knock this work out quicker than that, as the indirect route around that bridge is a pain in the ass.