Work will begin this week on the Cibolo Creek Bank Stabilization project, a $2.4 million effort to restore the creek banks along River Road and build a better park experience for residents and visitors.
Chris Shadrock, city director of communications, said work will begin Tuesday as drains will be placed along the bank and run 24 hours a day for about a week, to properly drain the creek. A dry-out period will follow before heavy machinery and equipment can be used.
According to Lissette Jimenez, director of parks and recreation, the current water flow has caused a lot of bank erosion.
“In order for us to get the heavy machinery in the creek, we’ve got to drain the creek,” Jimenez said.
“Crews will begin their work fortifying the creek bank that has been eroded away by water and foot traffic, and restoring it to its natural state,” Shadrock said.
The project will take between seven and eight months to complete. Shadrock said the creek will only be drained for about 90 days, as the rest of the project is landscaping and work above the creek banks.
The city began setting aside money in 2020 to fully fund the $2.4 million undertaking.
During construction, the park walking trail will be closed to the public, from the public restroom to the Mill Dam. Detour signs will be placed at various areas to alert pedestrians.
Additionally, other sections of the park and sidewalk will be closed periodically to allow crews the ability to work safely. There will be reduced street parking during this time.
But the restored riverbanks and improved water flow are not the only improvements planned during the construction.
The project will provide a new 250-foot pedestrian boardwalk, three additional fishing piers, additional buffer space between the sidewalk and creek bank, increased native vegetation, and streamlined pedestrian access to approved areas, to maintain the creek edge.
Jimenez said the 250 foot pedestrian boardwalk is “going to bring a new view and perspective for our visitors and residents.”
“We’re really excited to see this park grow into a new statement for Boerne. It’s going to be one-of-a kind,” she added.
One of the unique features of River Road Park is the dam located at the east end of the park. The dam was deeded to the city in July 1912.
It was originally known as the old Dietert Mill Dam and was part of the old Dietert homestead, which was on the south bank of the Cibolo Creek.
Originally called Riverside Park, the park underwent a face-lift in 2013 when new picnic tables, sidewalks, irrigation, sod, trees, and fishing piers were installed.
“These enhancements will achieve the right balance of environmental protection, with visitor safety and enjoyment,” Shadrock said.
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