Welcome to the Allandale Neighborhood Association
ANA Board of Directors meeting Wednesday, August 5 at 7 PM
In person at the NW Recreation Center and on ZOOM
Celebrate the 70th Anniversary of the Northwest Pool
NW Park Pond Updates
By Mary Fero & David Riskin
The future of the pond at Sheffield Northwest District Park is in doubt.
Why is the Duck Pond’s future uncertain? What changed? Water!
Uncertain rainfall. This past summer through early spring was the driest spell going back 75 years. By last fall, much of the pond was reduced to a mud flat. An October rainfall event kept the pond from critically low levels.
The park’s swimming pool was designed to empty into the pond, and did so since opening in 1956. But the new pool (open Summer 2026) provides no operational water for the pond. And the pond’s 25-acre catchment basin currently is inadequate to sustain its wetland habitat.
Since at least 2021, neighbors, park lovers, birders, local scientists and others have expressed concerns to Austin Parks and Recreation about the need to explore sources of supplemental water. The Northwest District Park Vision Plan adopted in January 2022 directed that such studies be undertaken.
Within the park, dam reconstruction, redevelopment of trails and parking, replacement of park sewer lines and a playground upgrade are all on the horizon. These major planned renovations can impact the pond and its diverse habitat.
To this day, there is no resolution for the pond.
In response to these concerns, the Allandale Neighborhood Association Board of Directors approved a statement of support calling for a new, transparent planning effort to focus specifically on this beloved, iconic feature of Beverly Sheffield Northwest District Park, and urging that this new effort include neighborhood representation.
We hope this effort to save the pond will preserve its recreational value and its significant contribution as an important habitat for birds and aquatic wildlife.
On behalf of the Neighborhood Working Group on Sheffield Northwest Park Pond
David Riskind & Mary Fero
See the ANA Resolution
Join us on Sunday, Aug 9th at 12 noon and enjoy a frozen fruit bar (thank you HEB) & sparkling water (thank you Rambler and Waterloo) while celebrating the 70th Anniversary of NW pool!
The family-friendly event will feature snacks and beverages, historic photos and memorabilia, and the chance to celebrate the pool's history in this newly renovated facility. Swimmers from the McCallum High School Swim Team will provide a short demonstration.
Pool entry fees will be waived so everyone can join the celebration
The event marks the anniversary of the pool's formal dedication in 1956 and will provide an opportunity to hear from Sally Sheffield Attaway, Beverly Sheffield's daughter, and to meet his son, Steve Sheffield and other family members. In 2001, the pool and park were renamed in honor of former Parks and Recreation Director Beverly S. Sheffield, recognizing his lasting impact on Austin's park system.
What: 70th Anniversary of Northwest pool
When: Sunday, August 9th at 12pm
Where: Beverly S. Sheffield Northwest District Park
For more info:
https://www.austintexas.gov/.../sheffield-northwest-pool...
APD “Firewise” Presentation
Austin Fire Department presented “Firewise” at our April 2025 general meeting. Austin was ranked 5 in the nation for risk from wildfires. To learn more about how you can become more “firewise”, check out APD’s presentation, guide and website below.
AFD “Firewise” presentation here
AFD Action Guide here
Austin Wildfire Hub Website here
News & Events
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Love where you live.
Allandale is a neighborhood in Central Austin, Texas known for its large lots, mature trees, and central location!
October 4th 2025 is Allandale Neighborhood Association Day
It’s official!
Mayor Kirk Watson presented ANA with an official proclamation of October 4th 2025 as Allandale Neighborhood Association Day at our General Meeting on October 4, 2025.