The long-awaited completion of the 2016 Mobility Bond sidewalk initiative has hit the pavement in Austin, Texas. A monumental $37.5 million project has successfully put down more than 56 miles of new and refurbished sidewalks throughout the city, a whole year ahead of schedule. According to the city's latest release, this project started making strides in 2017 with a simple sidewalk on Chesterfield Lane and hasn't looked back since.
While Austin's residents now have more improved walkways to roam, the city has recognized that this is just the beginning. Even with this accomplishment, there is an evident gap to fill. The 2023 Sidewalks, Crossings, and Shared Streets plan estimated a still-standing need to build around 810 miles of sidewalks and to lay down approximately 370 miles of shared streets. These shared streets are part of an innovative design strategy to create safer, pedestrian-focused pathways." The Austin Mobility Bond website reveals that in response to the continuous demand, patrons in Austin have stepped up to back future projects, passing bonds in 2018 and 2020 totaling an extra $100 million directed at sidewalk improvements.
The city's push for mobility doesn't come to a halt with sidewalks alone. They're presenting progress with other developments aimed at enhancing transportation for all Austinites. Recent undertakings feature a project to erect new sidewalks, crossings, a shared-use path, and protected bicycle lanes on East Yager Lane.
For those keen to follow the construction as it unfolds, the city has provided resources such as an interactive map displaying a forecast of sidewalk projects set to start shortly. Interested parties can easily access photos, videos, and further details here and get acquainted with what's to come for Austin's streetscapes. The ongoing narrative of Austin's urban improvements is one freely available – in maps, plans, and multimedia – for any residents who choose to keep an eye on this evolving story.
