The Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority is hosting a public meeting Tuesday evening to gather input on the proposed MoPac South Project, a major effort aimed at easing congestion along one of Austin’s busiest corridors.
The in-person meeting is scheduled from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Bowie High School, with a virtual public hearing also underway through early May.
The project focuses on improvements to MoPac between Cesar Chavez Street and Slaughter Lane, including the addition of express lanes in each direction to improve travel times and reliability.
Transportation officials say the corridor is one of the most heavily traveled in Central Texas, carrying nearly 200,000 vehicles per day and facing increasing congestion due to rapid population growth and development.
The meeting will follow an open-house format, allowing attendees to review project materials, view presentations, speak with project staff, and submit written comments for the official record.
While transportation officials say the project is designed to improve mobility, it has drawn criticism from environmental and community groups.
Opponents argue that adding toll lanes could encourage more driving, potentially increasing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions in the region. Some groups have also raised concerns about impacts to nearby green spaces, waterways, and neighborhoods along the corridor.
Environmental advocates have pushed for alternative solutions, such as expanded public transit or managed lanes that prioritize buses and carpooling, rather than expanding toll-based infrastructure.
The project is currently undergoing an environmental assessment under federal law, which evaluates potential impacts to both the natural and human environment, as well as alternatives—including a “no-build” option.
Officials say feedback gathered during the public hearing process will help shape the final plan.
The public comment period remains open through May 3, and residents can submit feedback online, by mail, or in person at the meeting.
