Posting Language
Title
Approve a resolution authorizing the submission of a grant application to the Texas Department of Transportation 2023 Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside Program to fund a feasibility study, environmental clearance, and potential construction of a shared use path along SL 360 from Loop 1 to US 183.
De
Lead Department
Austin Transportation Department
Fiscal Note
This item has no fiscal impact.
Prior Council Action:
Resolution No. 20170504-033, which authorized the 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, Interim Director, 512-974-2488; Anna Martin, Assistant Director, 512-974-7105; Gilda Powers, Administrative Manager, 512-974-7092.
Additional Backup Information:
The Austin Transportation Department (ATD) intends to submit a grant application to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) 2023 Transportation Alternatives (TA) Set-Aside Program Call for Projects (see Exhibit 1), 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.
ATD seeks a total of $10,000,000 with $8,000,000 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. If successful and the funds are awarded, the City will be required to contribute 20% (the remaining $2,000,000) in matching funds. In that event, staff will return to Council in mid-2023 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 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 the interchange limits, there are extensive gaps between interchanges where a separate 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.
Strategic Outcome(s)
Strategic Outcome(s):
Mobility, Safety