The winter months have witnessed the successful conclusion of construction along South Congress Avenue and Stassney Lane in south Austin. This significant undertaking is set to bring about a notable improvement in safety. According to a news release, the city's Transportation and Public Works Department designed these roadway improvements with the aim of reducing crashes for all modes of transportation.Enhanced Safety Measures
The improvements encompass a wide range of safety, mobility, and accessibility features. A second left-turning lane has been added for southbound Congress Avenue vehicles heading to eastbound Stassney Lane. New raised concrete medians on Congress Avenue effectively control entry and exit points along the roadway. Additionally, a new left turn lane has been created on northbound Congress Avenue to Ainsworth Street. The concrete islands at the northeast and southeast corners of the intersection have been reworked to make cars take right turns more gradually. Separate bicycle and pedestrian paths have been established, along with six new Capital Metro bus stops. Pedestrian infrastructure has been upgraded, including re-striped crosswalks and new ADA-compliant curb ramps. Driveway safety enhancements, traffic signal upgrades, and signal timing upgrades at both the Little Texas Lane and Stassney Lane intersections along South Congress Avenue have also been implemented. New pavement surface markings and signage complete the package.Project Timeline and Funding
The construction project took approximately a year and a half to complete. Crews first started working on the $4.9 million roadway improvements in May 2023. The project was funded by the city's 2018 Mobility Bonds and CapMetro. For more information on the status of other Mobility Bond road projects, one can refer here.Benefits for All
These improvements will have a profound impact on the safety and mobility of the area. With the addition of new lanes and medians, traffic flow will be more organized, reducing the likelihood of crashes. The separated paths for bicycles and pedestrians ensure their safety and provide them with dedicated spaces. The upgraded bus stops and pedestrian infrastructure will enhance the overall transportation experience for commuters. This project is a testament to the city's commitment to improving safety and accessibility on its roads.Conclusion
The completion of the roadwork along S Congress Avenue is a significant milestone. It not only enhances safety but also sets the stage for a more efficient and accessible transportation system in south Austin. The efforts of the Transportation and Public Works Department, along with the funding from the Mobility Bonds and CapMetro, have made this possible. As the area continues to grow and evolve, these improvements will play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of residents and visitors alike.>
