Zilker Park may be getting some upgrades in the next few years, as the city moves forward on the Zilker Metropolitan Park Vision Plan, the first master plan for the iconic park in its 100 years of existence.

The last two opportunities to tell the city what you think Zilker Park needs are coming up, so we’re giving you the low-down on the plan’s objectives.

Protect the park’s ecology 🌳

Zilker Park is a significant ecological site for the city of Austin, in part because it plays a role in recharging Edwards Aquifer — the primary source of drinking water for two million people — and provides habitat for 262 wildlife species, including two species of endangered salamanders.

To preserve the park’s environmental integrity, the plan proposes:

Expanding green infrastructure and tree canopy
Fighting the 38 invasive species that have been found in the park
Formalizing trails and restoring + expanding natural areas

Zilker Park is home for 262 wildlife species, including two species of endangered salamanders. | Photo via @bott_scutler

Improve access and mobility 🚴🏻

More than 2.5 million people visit the park each year.

To ensure all visitors have easy and safe ways to access the park, the plan suggests:

Improving non-car modes of transportation to the park, such as bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure
Collaborating with local public transportation organizations to improve routes
Improving the park’s level of ADA accessibility

Support diversity + inclusion and recognize the park’s history 🕰

Future efforts at the park will strive to recognize the park’s diversity + history, from its cultural significance to Native American communities to the land’s acquisition by A.J. Zilker in the early 1900s.

To do this, the plan proposes:

Bringing in local artists to participate in park spaces
Sharing stories of the park’s history
Improving upon + adding new learning opportunities

The project team is expected to produce a final draft vision plan by this summer. To participate in the upcoming community meeting taking place at 6 p.m. on Feb. 15, sign up online.