SAN ANTONIO – A newly signed Texas House Bill sets in motion the Texas Bicentennial Trail, connecting new and existing trails from San Antonio to Austin.
House Bill 4230 brings together the General Land Office, Texas Department of Transportation, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department and nonprofits like the Great Springs Project for the venture.
The trail would pass through the Barton Springs, San Marcos Springs, Comal Springs and San Antonio Springs, from the Alamo to the state capitol, according to a GLO news release.
“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,” said Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham.
State Rep. Will Metcalf (R-Conroe) authored the house bill. State Sen. Donna Campbell (R-New Braunfels) supported it with companion legislation in the state Senate.
The bill specifies that trail routes cannot be acquired through the use of eminent domain, and sets its completion for Jan. 1, 2036, the 200th anniversary of Texas’ independence, the release stated.
Some trail alignments have been prepared by local communities on the planned route, while in other areas alignments still need to be determined, the Great Springs Project said on its website.
“This legislation will help with many elements of Great Springs Project’s trail development work including addressing challenging roadway crossings to collaborative governmental organization work that advances trail development and conservation priorities,” said Emma Lindrose-Siegel, chief development officer at the Great Springs Project.
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