Austin city leaders celebrate opening of downtown biofiltration pond

AUSTIN (KXAN) — Austin city leaders on Friday celebrated the opening of a newly completed biofiltration pond in downtown Austin.

Located on the Waterloo Greenway, the pond is the only one of its kind in the area. It is designed to help filter stormwater runoff from the streets, as well as improve water quality.

The pond is also expected to remove debris before it reaches Waller Creek and eventually Lady Bird Lake.

The Waterloo Greenway project includes not only this pond and park, but also the restoration and rebuilding of nearly 13 acres along Waller Creek, between 4th Street and Lady Bird Lake. The third phase of the project is expected to begin in June 2026.