BY KAMERYN GRIESSER & BEN THOMPSON
A point of contention
E. coli levels in Barton Creek This map compares 2021 site averages of E. coli levels compared to standards set by Texas law.
As evidence of a possible pipe leak, the resolu- tion highlights a 2023 city report which rated the Barton Creek area between Hwy. 71 and Zilker Park “fair” for water chemistry and showed higher than average E. coli levels. According to Austin Water, however, the wastewater mains near Barton Springs are inspected on five- and 10-year cycles and hav- en’t shown signs of disrepair. Utility spokesperson Amy Petri also said inspections in 2009, 2010, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024 revealed “no noted structural defects or evidence of pipe leaking.” Austin stream biologist Andrew Clamann said higher E. coli levels are common in urban areas and do not always indicate wastewater contamination.
4.2 MPN/100ML
8.2 MPN/100ML
“Colonies” per 100ML of water or MPN/100ML
360
BARTON CREEK
MOPAC
399 MPN/100ML: Unsafe to swim, can cause physical illness 126 MPN/100ML: Average for freshwater
71
25.8 MPN/100ML
157.7 MPN/100ML
290
N
SOURCE: TEXAS ADMINISTRATIVE CODE, AUSTIN WATERSHED PROTECTION DEPARTMENT/COMMUNITY IMPACT
The other side
SOS Ordinance New development in areas near the Barton Creek watershed must follow standards set by the 1992 Save Our Springs Ordinance. The ordinance:
What’s next
While some advocates support the resolu- tion, others have voiced concerns. “We want to know that any plans to redevelop Barton Creek Square or any of the surrounding areas won’t cause new problems while trying to solve old problems,” said Brian Zabcik, Save Barton Creek Association advo- cacy director. Bill Bunch, who heads Austin’s Save Our Springs Alliance, said increased impervious cover like rooftops and parking lots could deplete and pollute the St. Edwards Aquifer, which feeds Barton Creek. Ellis said new development would follow stricter environmental regulations than many structures built before the 1992 ordinance.
The resolution directs city staff to return to council with plans for its relocation by November. Before the city report is completed, Austin Water staff will analyze the Southwest Austin-area wastewater system and capacity needs. Petri said the utility team still has to identify which redevelopments or other stakeholders will be involved in this year’s process. “We need to make sure that we have modern standards. ... We know better now, and we have a chance to do better for the next 30, 40 years with our infrastructure,” Ellis said.
Sets impervious cover limits
Establishes pollution prevention standard
Requires enhanced water quality controls • Includes “Redevelopment exemption,” which exempts the redevelopment of a site located in the Barton Springs zone already built prior to 1992.
SOURCE: CITY LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE, BILL BUNCH/COMMUNITY IMPACT
POWER UP YOUR POTENTIAL
At MYO Mind & Body, you can expect an experience that will transform your MIND and BODY! We offer rejuvenating body work, biomechanics personal training, unique bio-hacking modalities, nutrition & lifestyle coaching as well as recovery support using a NXPro.
We check all the boxes!
Special Offer: Free 60 minute session Book online or call/text 813-998-5004
Custom Design Expert Jewelry Repair Diamonds, Fine Jewelry Watches Watch Batteries
2127 Lohmans Crossing #300, Lakeway, TX ∙ 512-266-1715 www.nikolasalan.com
BACK & HIP PAIN | FROZEN SHOULDER | SOFT-TISSUE & OVER-TRAINING INJURIES | SURGERY RECOVERY SWOLLEN JOINTS | TENNIS OR GOLFERS ELBOW | PLANTAR FASCIITIS | & MUCH MORE
907 Ranch Rd. 620 South, Ste. 101-B, Lakeway, TX 78734
27
LAKE TRAVIS - WESTLAKE EDITION
Powered by FlippingBook