Boardwalk Benches

The Trail Foundation, in collaboration with the Urban Forestry Grant Program, created spaces for rest, contemplation, and remembrance along the Trail. Whether enjoying the Lake views, taking a stretch break, fishing, or more, these benches are installed at the overlook points along the 1.2-mile Boardwalk for all to enjoy. Studio Balcones, a highly respected and experienced landscape architecture firm, designed the benches to harmoniously blend with the surrounding built and natural environments, Harvest Lumber Company reclaimed the unprocessed wood, and the high-quality fabrication was completed by Hatch Workshop, whose extensive and transformative portfolio includes custom woodwork for exteriors, restaurants, homes, and businesses.

Following The Trail Foundation’s prioritization of ecological restoration, these benches are made from reclaimed white oak trees that were removed because they were at the end of their lifespan, pose a safety hazard, or were approved to be removed for construction. Through this project, the life cycle of trees that make up Austin’s urban forest will not end once they are removed; these trees are preserved indefinitely and repurposed in a way that is at once functional, beautiful, and desired by the 4.4 million Trail users.

Through a TTF-facilitated bench adoption program, members of the public are now able to honor and dedicate these benches to loved ones.