West Sixth Street Bridge Nominated for National Register
May 22, 2014 | By Shoal Creek Conservancy
West Sixth Street Bridge at Shoal Creek Recommended for National Register of Historic Places
Read the Conservancy’s Press Release
Exciting things are happening around the Conservancy and the city! We are pleased to announce that the beautifully handcrafted West 6th Street Bridge over Shoal Creek has been nominated for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. The nomination occurred Saturday when the State Board of Review voted in favor of nomination. Next, the Texas Historical Commission will finalize the application, and the U.S. Park Service will consider the nomination in the coming months. The bridge could be listed in the National Registry as early as this fall.
If you are unfamiliar with the West 6th Street Bridge, we invite you to take the time to explore the trail and check it out. This treasure, constructed in 1887, is a three-arch masonry bridge that was hand-built with local materials. It also sits on the site of Austin’s first bridge was located.
The “Pecan Street Bridge” as it is historically known is a major artery of the city of Austin, yet it goes easily unnoticed. This nomination – and eventual listing – is a great way to begin giving this bridge the notice and care that it deserves.
The Conservancy is committed to protecting and restoring this significant landmark by registering it as a historic place at the city and national level as well as raising funds and advocating for the restoration of the bridge, lighting, landscaping, and creation and implementation of a protocol for ongoing maintenance. This designation will greatly assist our efforts to pursue funds for its restoration.
A big thanks to the Texas Historical Commission for their support and a job well done to all who were involved in this process! Keep your eyes peeled for updates later this year on the Historic listing process, with a public celebration to follow if the listing goes through.
Read News Coverage of the Nomination below:
Austin American Statesman – Austin’s West Sixth Street Bridge nominated for National Register
KUT – This Downtown Austin Bridge Could be Named A National Landmark
KVUE – West Sixth Street Bridge recommended for National Register of Historic Places
