Residents of Round Rock can soon expect to see a new traffic signal as the city council has approved a contract to usher in safer roads in the burgeoning northeast corridor. On July 10, the council unanimously voted for a $247,335 contract that aims to not only add a traffic signal but also to enhance the accessibility and safety of the busy Chandler Road and Ed Schmidt Boulevard intersection. This development comes after a comprehensive traffic study and collision assessments verified the intersection's need for a signal, a decision informed by the Round Rock Public Works department.
According to a report released by Round Rock City's website, the contract has been awarded to HDR Engineering. They will handle the project's design aspects, including drainage modifications and the addition of critical turning lanes—necessary changes to safely handle the traffic volumes that have begun to quickly outgrow the area's current capacity. Design work by HDR Engineering is projected to quickly commence and to be completed in early 2026, with construction to follow shortly after.
The addition of this traffic signal addresses a gap between existing signals—a half-mile to the west at the state Highway 130 intersection and another about a mile east at the FM 1660 intersection. The expansion of roadway infrastructure reflects Round Rock's response to its growing population and evolving traffic demands, ensuring that mobility and safety remain a priority in city planning.
Michael Thane, Round Rock Public Works Executive Director, cited in the Round Rock City announcement, said, "a traffic study, along with an evaluation of traffic patterns and previous incidents, determined that the intersection meets the criteria for a traffic signal." This development is poised to significantly influence the flow and the overall safety of vehicles and pedestrians navigating this thriving sector of Round Rock. With careful planning and a clear directive, the city is striving to not only maintain but to improve the well-being of its streets and its citizens.
