They should call Austin ‘the city that’s never finished,’ because there are always new developments in the works here in the Capital City.
Keep your eyes peeled for cranes and ribbon cuttings, because there are several projects taking shape in 2026. Here are a few we’re keeping a close eye on.
This map from the City of Austin outlines the shape of the pedestrian bridge, as it will be seen from above.
Image via the City of Austin
Longhorn Dam “Wishbone Bridge” | Est. completion: Any day now
City personnel announced that the new bridge along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail was “almost finished” back in mid-November, with just benches, electrical work, and clean-up remaining.
The Confluence | Est. completion: June 2026
The second phase of Waterloo Greenway is set to open in time for summer, debuting a section of the Waller Creek urban park with 1,600 trees, 200,000 trees, and an 800-ft boardwalk. After opening, the Waterloo Greenway project will move onto phase three.
Austin Convention Center | Est. completion: Late 2028
Also known as “Unconventional ATX,” the upcoming Austin Convention Center is sure to be the talk of the town during the first SXSW after the old venue’s demolition. Construction on the new building broke ground in September last year, refilling the empty lot.
The District | Est. completion: 2039
Encompassing 65.5 acres of retail, residential, office, and green space in Round Rock, The District broke ground in spring 2025, eight years after its introduction to the city. Once complete, The District is expected to span 3 million sqft and make up $500 million worht of investment.
I-35 Expansion | Completion varies
With project completion ranging from 2026 to the 2030s, and many plans still yet to be finalized, this central highway is guaranteed to make headlines this year. There’s going to be a lot of ground to cover (literally and figuratively), so strap in for changes to your commute.
