Mayor Neal Linnartz of New Braunfels has expressed pride in the ongoing Right-of-Way (ROW) & Beautification Program that's transforming the city's major corridors since its initial launch back in June, as per a statement on the City of New Braunfels official website. This initiative, which is now a staple visual enhancement throughout the area, extends over several key roadways, including IH-35 and Loop 337 as well as SH-46, FM 725, and several others totaling approximately 495.97 acres of maintained city land.
The program, which initially was a solution to frequent requests to mow or pick up litter on TxDOT roadways - a responsibility of TxDOT that lacked city funds, has seen New Braunfels budget recently to supplement mowing and litter pick up on state roadways within the city aiming to boost its aesthetic appeal, the Mayor Linnartz detailed the scope of work that ranges from mowing to trimming, litter pickup, and herbicide application; these tasks are undertaken by a dedicated crew of four local employees who exhibit a sense of ownership towards their work.
Improvements to the program include the purchase of a new litter picker, an investment that has increased the crew's ability to clear larger areas more efficiently, reflecting well on the cityscape and taxpayers’ investment. Linnartz emphasized that the team initially intended to maintain only certain portions of I-35, but recognizing an opportunity, the crew expanded their efforts to cover the entire corridor within the limits of the city, greeting residents, visitors, and travelers with a welcoming and tidy environment.
According to Mayor Linnartz, the ROW & Beautification crews in New Braunfels work on litter reduction, preventing illegal dumping, and maintaining overall safety. Their efforts also contribute to the city’s appearance and support economic development. The city plans to implement further adjustments to improve efficiency and continue investing in these programs to keep up with New Braunfels’ growth.
Mayor Linnartz highlighted the work of the ROW & Beautification program. Every freshly cut roadside, every cleared median, and every litter-free intersection reflects how much we care about the place we call home. The program continues to operate as New Braunfels grows, maintaining roadways and medians while supporting city maintenance and community standards.
