City to continue Lady Bird Lake swimming ban

Austin leaders are being advised to keep the longstanding ban on recreational swimming in Lady Bird Lake in place. A city memo released Thursday, addressed to Mayor Kirk Watson and City Council, outlined the latest review of safety conditions and concluded that the risks remain too high for the ban to be lifted.

Officials noted that despite restrictions, the lake continues to pose dangers to both people and pets. Since 2019, six dogs have died after exposure to harmful blue-green algae, which can release unpredictable toxins. City staff warned that ingestion of the algae also presents health hazards for humans.

The memo explained that creating a safe swimming environment at the lake would require extensive investment. Preparations would include designated sites, hazard warning systems, lifeguard staffing, emergency response measures, and constant monitoring of water quality. Flood-related damage would also demand ongoing infrastructure repairs.

Even with those steps, staff cautioned that injuries, illnesses, and fatalities would be “inevitable.” The document concluded that ensuring safe swimming conditions would be both financially burdensome and logistically impractical.

Swimming in Lady Bird Lake has been prohibited for decades, though other activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding remain popular. The latest review was prompted by community questions about whether the city might revisit the ban, but officials say safety and public health must take precedence.

Thanks to kxan.com for the scoop.