Posting Language
Title
Approve a resolution authorizing the submission of a grant application to the Texas Department of Transportation 2025 Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside program to fund a feasibility study, environmental clearance, and potential construction of a shared use path along Loop 360 from Loop 1 to United States Route 183. This item has no fiscal impact.
De
Lead Department
Transportation and Public Works Department
Fiscal Note
This item has no fiscal impact.
Prior Council Action:
Resolution No. 20170504-033, authorizing negotiation and execution of an advanced funding agreement with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to contribute $46,000,000 in 2016 Mobility Bond dollars to supplement funds provided by TxDOT to construct grade separations of the Loop 360 intersections at Westlake Drive, Courtyard Drive, Lakewood Drive, and Spicewood Springs Road was approved on a 10-0 vote with Council Member Garza absent.
For More Information:
Richard Mendoza, Director, 512-974-2488; Anna Martin, Assistant Director, 512-974-7105; Andrei Lubomudrov. Business Process Consultant Sr., 512-974-7253; Gilda Powers, Quality Consultant, 512-974-7092.
Council Committee, Boards and Commission Action:
Additional Backup Information:
Transportation and Public Works Department (TPW) intends to submit a grant application to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) 2025 Transportation Alternatives (TA) Set-Aside Program Call for Projects, established to provide grants to eligible public sector agencies focused on active transportation network enhancements. TxDOT administers TA funds for locally sponsored bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure projects in communities across the state.
TPW seeks a total of $15,500,000 with $12,400,000 in state funding for a package of projects to perform feasibility studies, seek environmental clearance, and advance segments for construction for shared use paths (SUPs) along SL 360 between Loop 1 and US 183. The three segments include SUP between RM 2244 and Westlake Drive, Lakewood Drive to the intersection with Winding Ridge Boulevard, and Spicewood Springs Road to US 183. If funds are awarded, the City will be required to contribute 20% (the remaining $3,100,000) in matching funds. The matching funds will come from 2016 mobility bond funds. Should the grant funds be awarded, staff will return to Council in late-2025 seeking authorization to accept state funds and to contribute the matching City funds
Loop 360 provides primary access to west Austin, acting as both a thoroughfare for residents and a commuter route. It provides access to Lake Austin as well as Travis County greenbelts and is a popular recreational bike route. Increased vehicle traffic congestion along Loop 360 has resulted in a lack of mobility and growing safety concerns. TxDOT’s Loop 360 Program will upgrade multiple intersections to improve mobility and safety along the corridor. While TxDOT’s planned project will include segments of SUP within their project limits, there will remain extensive gaps where SUP will not be constructed. As Loop 360 is a popular recreational bike route, the City and TxDOT both desire to plan and construct a separate path for pedestrians and cyclists.