The Wishbone Bridge is Finally Open
Austin, TX · April 17, 2026
Happy Friday—the long-awaited pedestrian bridge at Longhorn Dam officially opens its gates this morning, just in time for a weekend stroll over the water. Grab your sneakers; the views of the skyline from the new "wishbone" spans are worth the trek, and the weather is holding up perfectly for a first look.
📰 The Lead
After years of orange cones and trail detours, the Longhorn Dam Wishbone Bridge is finally ready for its debut. This isn't just another sidewalk; it’s a massive infrastructure win for the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, replacing the narrow, precarious walkway along the Pleasant Valley Road bridge. The new structure features three distinct spans that meet in the middle of Lady Bird Lake, creating a plaza-like space over the water. For East Austin residents, it means a safer, wider connection to the south side of the lake. City officials are hosting a ribbon-cutting at 10:00 AM today, but the trail is already buzzing with cyclists and runners eager to test the new pavement. It’s a significant step in the city’s plan to make the entire 10-mile loop fully accessible and separated from heavy vehicle traffic.
🏙️ Local Pulse
New Rapid Bus Line Hits the Streets CapMetro officially launches the Expo Center MetroRapid line today. Expect more frequent service and dedicated lanes along the eastern corridors, aiming to cut commute times for residents heading toward the University and downtown.
Terrazas Branch Library Reopens Today Following a year of HVAC and interior upgrades, the East 5th Street staple is back in business. The community celebration starts at noon with local poets and a first look at the expanded children’s wing.
Zilker Summer Shuttle Returns Tomorrow With the weather warming up, the free weekend shuttle from One Texas Center to Zilker Park resumes tomorrow morning. It’s the easiest way to skip the parking headache near Barton Springs during peak hours.
🌤️ Today's Outlook
- High 84°F · Low 66°F A beautiful spring day with plenty of sun, though humidity will start to creep up by the afternoon. If you’re heading out for dinner, keep a light jacket handy for the breezy evening.
📅 What's On Around Town
SFC Farmers Market Downtown Republic Square, 422 Guadalupe St 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM Stock up on spring strawberries and local honey while enjoying live acoustic sets under the oaks.
Wishbone Bridge Grand Opening Longhorn Dam, South Pleasant Valley Rd 10:00 AM Be among the first to walk the new three-way pedestrian bridge; the city is handing out commemorative stickers to early arrivals.
Record Store Day Eve Listening Party End of an Ear, 4304 Clawson Rd 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM Get a sneak peek at tomorrow’s limited releases with local DJs spinning rare vinyl and complimentary refreshments.
Round Rock: Express vs. Isotopes Dell Diamond, 3400 E Palm Valley Blvd 7:05 PM A short drive north for Friday Night Fireworks at the ballpark—always a hit for families looking for an easy evening out.
The Bright Light Social Hour Mohawk, 912 Red River St Doors at 8:00 PM The hometown psych-rock favorites take the outdoor stage for a high-energy set that’s sure to sell out by showtime.
Late Night Comedy Showcase Esther’s Follies, 525 E 6th St 10:00 PM The legendary sharp-witted troupe tackles the latest local headlines with their signature mix of magic and political satire.
📸 Spotlight & Story
- The Continental Club Since opening as a swanky supper club in 1955, this South Congress landmark has transformed into the "Granddaddy of all local music venues." While it’s famous for hosting legends like Stevie Ray Vaughan, the real magic is the neon-lit intimacy of the room. Did you know it served as a private burlesque club in the 1960s? Today, it remains the heartbeat of the 78704, keeping the "Old Austin" spirit alive one guitar lick at a time.
Austin Daily Digest — compiled from local sources as of 6 AM. For breaking updates, follow your local newsrooms.
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