TxDOT is studying ways to improve congestion along 620 and are looking into roadway explanations.
TxDOT’s Brad Wheelis explained they are still in the study phase as they look into ways to address congestion along RM 620. For the North end, between Mansfield Dam and 183, they are considering three lanes in each directions with feeder roads or even a 10 lane highway. “So what we want to try to figure out is, can we build this with as little right of way impact as possible? One of the options that is being looked at is possibly elevating the roadway.” Wheelis explained, the North end has been part of more business and residential growth than the South end, and they are studying what options can fit. On the South side, from Hudson bend to 71, he said they are looking into expanding it to three lanes in each direction.
Austin City councilmembers have long touted that more roads are not the answer, Wheelis said more roads play a part, but so do people’s actions. “We know that building more lanes will help ease congestion, but its not going to solve the problem.” Wheelis added, “We need folks to take public transportation, we need them to carpool more…folks can tele-work. All of those things combined will help ease the congestion in Austin.”
TxDOT reported the 620 expansions are still just being studied, and there will be more chances for more public input before any state dollars are dedicated to the plan.
(Photo:Shutterstock/Detailfoto)
