Establishing Connectivity, Sustainability, and Energy with
Landscape Architecture: The Revitalization of Waller Creek in
Austin, TX Waller Creek is an urban riparian ecosystem that
meanders for seven miles from the northern part of Austin, TX,
southward through The University of Texas campus and along the
eastern edge of the downtown area before it meets Lady Bird Lake
(part of the Colorado River). This natural resource is severely
undervalued and has suffered years of neglect. However, in the
new Imagine Austin city plan it has been recognized as an
opportunity to prioritize environmental sustainability and to
create a link throughout the larger urban fabric. The City’s
Goals are as follows: - Create a healthy ecosystem; - Inspire
cohesion amongst diverse interests; - Bridge the two parts of
the city divided by Interstate Highway 35; - Create a tourist
destination for locals and visitors. The revitalization efforts
are focused on the section of the creek between 15th Street and
Lady Bird Lake. Michael Van Va