Leander to host roadwork open house

Leander to host roadwork open house

By Community Impact Newspaper Staff Wednesday, 08 July 2009

The City of Leander, Texas Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration will host an open house to discuss the proposed construction of two roadways in north Leander.

The improved roadways would increase capacity to meet the anticipated increase in traffic demand and growth expected as a result of the city’s Transit Oriented Development — the residential and commercial area designed to maximize access to Capital Metro’s commuter rail.

The proposed project, commonly referred to as the Leander “T,” includes about 2,200 feet of new road running east from San Gabriel Parkway, which is also known as CR 274. The extension will make a connection between US 183 and Toll 183A.

About 6,000 feet of new road running north from CR 273, commonly called Mel Mathis Avenue, will connect RM 2243 and the extended stretch of San Gabriel Parkway.

The San Gabriel Parkway extension includes one 11-foot and one 12-foot travel lane in each direction. The plan includes a future expansion capability of a 12-foot median, 14-foot travel lanes, 17-foot angle parking and 16-foot sidewalks in each direction.

The Mel Mathis Avenue extension calls for one 10-foot and one 12-foot travel lane in each direction, plus an eight-foot shoulder in each direction. A proposed 22-foot sidewalk would be constructed in the future in each direction. The proposed right-of-way width would be approximately 80 feet plus 25-feet on either side for a temporary drainage easement.

This project would call for about 16 acres of right-of-way including about 11-12 acres of new right-of-way depending on the alternative. City officials do not anticipate any displacements, according to a city press release.

The public can attend 6-8 p.m. July 14 at Pat Bryson Hall, 201 N. Brushy St. City officials will distribute project information and hear citizen input, which will be considered during the development phase of the project. Staff members will be available to answer questions, but no presentation will be given.

Open house exhibits will show aerial photography, proposed alternatives, environmental constraints, and preliminary schematics. The displays will be available for view before the pubic showing at the City of Leander administrative office, 200 W. Willis St.

People with special communication, language or accommodation needs are encouraged to contact City Secretary Debbie Haile at 528-2743 at least one week before the open house. Spanish translation will be available on site.

Verbal and written comments on the proposed projects may be presented at the open house or in writing by mail or fax. Written comments not submitted during the open house must be received on or before July 24 to be included in the open house record. Statements can be mailed to: Austin District Environmental Coordinator, TxDOT, P.O. Box 15426, Austin, TX 78761-5426 or faxed to 832-7157.