Another year has come to pass. As we reflect on the milestones, challenges, and triumphs of the past year, we do so intentionally with an eye toward future planning. As our region continues to grow and evolve, it’s crucial that we remain attentive and responsive to our community’s transportation needs and how we can build upon those opportunities to further elevate and enrich quality of life for the region.
In this, our 21st, year of working to provide much needed relief to Travis and Williamson counties, our teams have hit exciting milestones on existing projects, found new ways to look ahead, and were recognized for the work we’re doing.
Here are some highlights from 2023:
Construction on the 183 North Mobility Project is in full swing. The Project aims to improve mobility, reduce congestion and provide more reliable travel times for transit and emergency responders along the 9-mile section of US 183 between SH 45 North and Loop 1 (MoPac), a critical corridor in our regional transportation network. Significant progress has been made on utility relocations, drainage improvements, sidewalk and related business driveway reconstructions, as well as the direct connector to the MoPac Express Lane. Crews are working to complete interior and exterior widening along US 183 northbound and southbound frontage and mainlanes, as well as sections of MoPac near US 183.
Almost three-quarters of the way through construction, the 183A Phase III Project is designed to deliver proactive congestion relief, the new 183A Toll lanes will stretch from the existing 183A Toll lanes at Hero Way to just north of SH 29. Crews are nearing the final phase of bridge construction at the intersection of SH 29, and US 183 and spans of the new pedestrian bridge along the San Gabriel River have been placed. With paving efforts beginning along the corridor, project progress is obviously visible.
Designed to address safety and congestion concerns, the Barton Skyway Ramp Relief Project began construction in early 2023. The Mobility Authority expedited delivery of this non-tolled project, reaching major project milestones ahead of schedule this summer, and is preparing for completion in the spring of next year.
A landscaping improvement project adjacent to Austin's Memorial Park Cemetery began construction this spring and was completed this summer. Improvements include the planting of trees and installation of an irrigation system.
Interpretive signage was installed at 12 locations along 183 Toll between US 290 and SH 71, marking the official opening of the 183 Trail. Trail users will find signs with wayfinding and historical, cultural, and environmental information about the surrounding east Austin area with supplemental augmented reality experiences through our app, Trail Explorer by CTRMA.
The Mobility Authority published our inaugural Five-Year Capital Plan, which we’ll use to plan for the maintenance, renewal, improvement, and/or replacements of assets. As a multi-year planning tool, we’ll regularly examine our existing projects, projects being initiated each year, and those with the potential to be pursued within the next five years.
Our agency continues to deliver transportation solutions that aid our community and inspire others in the industry. This year, the Mobility Authority and its partners were presented with several awards related to industry-leading innovation and customer service at the International Bridge, Tunnel & Turnpike Association conference.
Looking at how we are positioned for 2024, and at the prospects our previous decisions have made available to us, we are excited at what the coming years have in store for the agency.
The world is changing rapidly but relationships with the communities we serve remain the heart of what we do. We will continue to put people first, build upon our success and create a bold path forward for transportation in the Central Texas Region.
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