Barton and Bull Creek greenbelts to reopen

Barton Creek and Bull Creek greenbelts will once again be open starting next Saturday, Aug. 8. That’s welcome news for those feeling the lack of swimming options in the dead of summer. However, those hoping to hit the greenbelt should be aware of the new process for accessing Barton Creek. As part of a five-month pilot program from the Parks and Recreation Department, Barton Creek Greenbelt will require advance reservations for Thursday through Sunday visits. Those reservations can be made online or by leaving a voicemail at 512-974-6797. A news release from the parks department explains the reason for the pilot, which will be used to determine future management strategies and funding needs for the park. “As one of the formally recognized 2020 Leave No Trace Hot Spots, environmental impacts at Barton Creek Greenbelt have reached a critical level and continue to worsen. With increased traffic to the greenbelt, litter (including pet waste), erosion, trail damage, water quality issues, and injuries continue to rise,” reads the release. “Neighborhoods surrounding the residential entrances are particularly impacted by heavy traffic, public intoxication and trash.”