AUSTIN, TX — The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Austin District initiated a planning and feasibility study to identify future safety and mobility improvements to US 290 between RM 1826 in southwest Austin and RM 12 in Dripping Springs.

US 290 West has experienced growth in development, which means more vehicles on the road. The average daily traffic count has increased by up to 12,000 vehicles over the past decade. The corridor spans both Travis and Hays counties.

Two open houses were held to gather input from the public. The identical open houses were held at either end of the study area for the convenience of those wishing to attend. More than 60 people showed up at the meeting in Dripping Springs, while nearly 40 turned out for the meeting in Oak Hill. No formal presentation was given, and attendees could come and go at their convenience.

“Everything is on the table,” said TxDOT Austin Public Information Officer Brad Wheelis. “Engineers have not drawn up any plans yet. They wanted to hear from the public first.”

The purpose of this planning and feasibility study is to identify long-term safety and mobility solutions for the US 290 corridor. The study is anticipated to take one year and will include many opportunities for public involvement.

The study area is adjacent to the upcoming Oak Hill Parkway project, which will provide substantial congestion relief at the “Y” in Oak Hill. This project will include three US 290 mainlanes in each direction as well as two to three frontage roads in either direction. The mainlanes will be depressed or go below current street level. New flyovers will be constructed between US 290 and SH 71.