How Waterloo Greenway is Allowing Austin to Reimagine Its Heart

Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette

CEO of Waterloo Greenway Conservancy

Watch the Full Episode

The Waterloo Greenway Conservancy is transforming Austin’s urban landscape by restoring Waller Creek and creating a 1.5-mile green park system in the heart of downtown. In this episode of the Changing Austin podcast, Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette, chief executive officer of Waterloo Greenway Conservancy, shares why this project is essential for building a more inclusive Austin while preserving the city’s cultural and

Release date: August 2025

Guest: Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette, CEO of Waterloo Greenway Conservancy

Duration: ~31 minutes

Sponsor: Amplify Credit Union

Timecodes:

08:05

—

Equity in Action: Why serving as CEO provides tools to advance equity in Austin.

15:52

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Generational Change: Optimism and determination as foundations for lasting impact.

26:11

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Civic Identity: Why Dr. Burnette blends her civic and professional roles as one.

What is the Waterloo Greenway?

Since its founding in 2011, the Waterloo Greenway Conservancy has become a model for urban renewal, sustainability, and civic engagement in Central Texas. Its mission: reclaim public space, promote equity, and bridge the gap between Austin’s past and its rapidly growing future.

Founded: 2011

Location: 1111 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701

Industry: Nonprofit, civic and environmental organization

Core Values: Civic leadership, equity, design excellence, collaboration, sustainable stewardship

Website: waterloogreenway.org

Memorable Quotes from Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette

Dr. Burnette explains why she came out of retirement to lead this effort, describing the Greenway as a project that gives the Austin community a chance to “reimagine its heart” with more inclusive public spaces that cross cultural and economic boundaries.

Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette

CEO of Waterloo Greenway Conservancy

“Two things change people: a broken heart and an open mind.”

“I don’t think Austin can grow without being inclusive. It’ll catch us one day.”

“Education really is the great equalizer. Education doesn’t guarantee you anything, but it assures you of more opportunities in life.”

“I’m highly encouraged by a community that leans into having the courageous conversation, where equity is no longer a buzzword – it’s a birthright.”

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