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The newly constructed Mercer Street Sidewalk Project is nearly complete and now open for pedestrian use, according to officials with the City of Dripping Springs.
The project extends from the intersection of N. Rob Shelton Boulevard and U.S. Highway 290, continuing west along 290, through the downtown triangle, and ending at the south intersection of Ranch Road 12 and Mercer Street. In addition, the City has installed a raised crosswalk within the triangle area on Mercer Street, along with two new pedestrian crossing beacons, further enhancing safety for residents and visitors.
Custom handrails will be installed next month. Orange barricades have been placed in those areas until the installation is complete, but the sidewalks are still accessible.
“This important improvement was made possible thanks to funding from a TxDOT Transportation Alternatives (TA) Grant, which the City applied for and was awarded,” said Council Member and Transportation Committee Chair Travis Crow. “The Transportation Committee values our partnership with TxDOT for their support in bringing this project to life and our other sidewalk projects.”
Since 2016, the City of Dripping Springs has worked in partnership with TxDOT to secure grant funding for a series of sidewalk projects designed to improve pedestrian safety and connectivity: Sportsplex Sidewalks (U.S. 290 to Dripping Springs High School) o TxDOT Funds: $317,442 | City Funds: $79,361 Rob Shelton Sidewalks (Sports Park to Founders Park) o TxDOT Funds: $624,202 | City Funds: $156,050 Middle School Sidewalks (Tiger Lane through Old Hwy 290, connecting to Roger Hanks) o TxDOT Funds: $1,483,057 | City Funds: $370,764 Mercer Street Sidewalks (RR 12 through the Triangle to Rob Shelton) o TxDOT Funds: $487,938 | City Funds: $121,984 Looking ahead, the City is preparing for its next project with TxDOT, the Old Fitzhugh Sidewalk Project, planned for 2026. This project will extend from Mercer Street to Ranch Road 12, with an estimated TxDOT contribution of $1,381,290 and City contribution of $345,322. Once the Old Fitzhugh Sidewalk is complete, the total funds for all the projects provided by TxDot will be $4,293,939, and the City $1,073,481.
These projects are part of the City’s ongoing efforts to create a safer, more walkable community. By leveraging TxDOT partnerships and funding, Dripping Springs continues to expand its pedestrian network, connecting neighborhoods, parks, schools, and the downtown district.
“Sidewalks may seem like simple projects, but they have a huge impact on safety, accessibility, and the overall quality of life in our community,” said Ginger Faught, Dripping Springs Deputy City Administrator. “Each project is a step toward a safer, more connected Dripping Springs. We are grateful to the Transportation Committee and Council Member Travis Crow, for supporting this and other important projects.”
For more information or questions, please contact the City of Dripping Springs Communications Department at communications@ cityofdrippingsprings. com.
