Dripping Springs receives funding for new sidewalks
As pedestrian and bicyclist deaths continue to rise, newly awarded funding will help Texans get safer access to schools, work, public transit, and community destinations around the state.
During its October 28 meeting, the Texas Transportation Commission approved more than $55 million for 41 projects across the state that will build sidewalks, shared use paths, bike lanes, pedestrian bridges and other safety features for people who walk and ride bicycles for transportation. Of that, $894,583 was allotted to Dripping Springs.
“These funds will have a positive impact on the community, and I am proud to have secured funding that will help improve rural transportation and help keep routes to school safe,” said Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25).
The money will be used to add six-foot sidewalks on Mercer Street between Ranch Road 12 and Highway 290, then continuing along the north side of 290 to Rob Shelton Boulevard. The project includes a mid-block crossing along Mercer, signage, and striping. It also connects to previously funded projects.
This comes after 2020 saw a 9% increase in pedestrian deaths along with more than a 20% increase in bicyclist fatalities.
“We’re seeing a disturbing trend as more and more pedestrians and cyclists are dying on Texas roadways and it’s been increasing for the past five years,” Texas Transportation Commissioner Laura Ryan said. “This funding will help improve safety for our more vulnerable users throughout the state - and go a long way in helping us achieve our goal of ending the streak of daily deaths.”
The funding largely comes from the Transportation Alternatives program, with a small amount from the Safe Routes to Schools program. Award selections came after a competitive call for projects from cities and counties across the state with populations under 200,000.
In the greater Austin area, four projects in the cities of Dripping Springs, Granger and Marble Falls, as well as other areas in Hays County, will be receiving the funding.