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Some Days It Takes a Bit More to Keep Traffic Moving … It Takes a HERO
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| Did you ever break down on I-35 or US 183 and wish a HERO would swoop in? If you’re on the 55-mile stretch of I-35 from Kyle to Georgetown, or on US 183 between I-35 and Lakeline Drive, all you need to do is dial the HERO hotline: 512-974-HERO. Or, there’s a good chance one of them will spot you and swoop in for the save before you pick up your cell phone. These are not Mobility Authority roads, but they are where the need is the greatest. And meeting this need is part of our commitment to keeping Central Texas moving. |
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Watch our HEROs in action in this video ride along with Patrol Driver Will Mackin
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There are currently 12 heroes operating as part of the Highway Emergency Response Operator (HERO) program who are ready to rescue you. In addition to patrolling between the hours of 6 a.m. and 10 p.m., Monday through Friday, they respond to hotline calls from motorists in need – all to keep traffic moving as quickly as possible by changing tires, putting emergency gas in empty tanks, performing minor repairs, calling a tow truck or other emergency services and moving disabled vehicles. And it won’t cost you a thing.
The Mobility Authority operates the HERO program in partnership with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to improve transportation in Williamson, Travis and Hays counties. Since 2011, 80 percent of the program’s money has come from federal grants, with TxDOT providing the other 20 percent. In 2013, HERO responded to over 10,000 incidents in its program areas. It’s estimated that these fast responses saved up to $19 for each $1 spent on the program – in large part by getting commuters to their destinations more quickly.
There are no capes, and no medals adorn their orange safety vests – although you may want to pin one on after being rescued! – but these drivers do more than rescue one stranded vehicle at a time: They keep Austin’s busiest thoroughfares flowing and save residents and businesses time and money.
For more information on the HERO program click here. |
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