North Austin News

The boat ramps at Lake Walter E. Long have been closed indefinitely due to low water levels, preventing safe entry and exit for boaters. However, access remains open for shore-launched watercraft such as canoes and kayaks. Other park facilities like volleyball courts, picnic sites, grills, and walking trails are still available.

Austin Energy collaborates with Austin Parks and Recreation to manage the lake's water levels. The city’s electric utility uses the lake's water in its operations at the nearby Decker Power Plant. In preparation for upcoming equipment upgrades, the lake level will be gradually lowered through natural evaporation, necessitating the closure of boat ramps during this period.

"The dam and gates that shape Lake Walter E. Long were designed and installed in 1967," stated a spokesperson. "Almost 60 years later, it’s time to improve and upgrade that equipment, bringing it up to current regulations and specifications, increasing safety and protecting a local gem for the future."

For safety reasons, boat ramps will remain closed until Austin Energy completes its work and water levels allow safe use of the ramps again. More information on repairs can be found at PublicInput.com/DeckerDam.