Seaholm Waterfront Phase 2 Opens to the Public Today

Austin, TX · May 20, 2026

Rain is tapping on the windows this Wednesday morning, but it shouldn't dampen the mood at the old Seaholm Intake building. After years of scaffolding and chain-link fences, the gates finally swing open at 10:00 AM.

The Seaholm Waterfront project reaches a major milestone today as the city unveils the completed Phase 2 renovations. This transformation turns the historic 1950s power plant intake structure into a vibrant public space, bridging the gap between the Lady Bird Lake hike-and-bike trail and the bustling Seaholm District. The project includes a new elevated plaza, accessible ramps, and restored Art Deco architectural details that have been hidden for decades. While the interior of the building is still slated for future event programming, the surrounding parkland and viewing decks are now fully accessible. This provides a much-needed shaded respite for trail users and a seamless connection for those walking from the Central Library toward the water.

🏙️ Local Pulse

  • New Shaded Transit Hubs — CapMetro begins installing high-capacity cooling shelters at ten North Lamar bus stops starting this afternoon.

  • Animal Center Capacity Alert — The municipal shelter is waiving all adoption fees through Friday to address a sudden surge in arrivals.

🌧️ Today's Outlook

  • High 82°F · Low 67°F — Rain (78% chance of precipitation) Keep the umbrella handy for those afternoon showers rolling through the corridor.

📅 What's On Around Town

  • Morning Bird Walk — Mueller Lake Park, 8:00 AM Guided nature stroll through the prairie restoration area before the rain starts.

  • The Triangle Farmers Market — 4600 Guadalupe St, 3:00–7:00 PM Mid-week grocery run with local produce, fresh eggs, and prepared foods.

  • Round Rock: Music on Main — Prete Main Street Plaza, 6:00 PM Free outdoor concert featuring local Texas country artists just a short drive north.

  • Blues on the Green — Zilker Park, 7:00 PM The city's favorite free concert series returns to the Great Lawn tonight.

  • Cedar Park: Trivia Night — Whitestone Brewery, 7:00 PM Test your knowledge while enjoying local drafts at this neighborhood favorite.

📸 Spotlight & Story

  • The Driskill Hotel Built in 1886 by a wealthy cattle baron, this Romanesque landmark remains the oldest operating hotel in the city. Look closely at the limestone busts on the facade; they depict the owner’s favorite breed of Hereford cattle.

Austin Daily Digest — compiled from local sources as of 6 AM. For breaking updates, follow your local newsrooms.

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