Zilker Park Boat Rentals has been the original paddling spot on Barton Creek in Austin,Texas since 1969.  Our small family business has withstood the test of time, serving the Austin community as well as being a part of the environmental soul of Austin.  Owner's Dorothy and Howard Barnett were founding member's of the Austin Sierra Club.  Zilker Park Boats is also a top bucket list tourist destination, providing visitors with the opportunity to experience one of Austin's remaining "Keep Austin Weird" icons.  If you have been a customer you know what we mean.

After 55 years of service to Austin and several years of contract uncertainty, the future of Zilker Park Boat Rentals is still currently unknown. The owners are hoping that their lease with the City of Austin would continue, but the clock is ticking on the remaining contract and no movement has been made towards helping us remain open.  

A Historic Landmark Preservation Status or a Legacy Business contract like the one granted in a no-bid contract to the Kite Festival, would protect this family business for years to come.  Other businesses within the Park System have been given long-term opportunities that have not been afforded to us.  For instance, Austin Parks Foundation was given the Zilker Park Train without any competitive bidding and The Trail Conservancy was given the management of the Hike and Bike Trail and more with a no bid contract while we are left fighting for our business every 5 years and more recently every year for the past 3 years.

Please join our plea by signing this petition.  We call on the City of Austin to save Zilker Park Boat Rentals and give us the same non-compete consideration given to the favored nonprofits of the parks.  Please grant us a similar noncompete contract. Grandfather us in as a historical, legacy business and help preserve this important cultural icon of Austin.