North Austin News

Austin, Texas - The city of Austin has successfully completed its sidewalk program funded by the 2016 Mobility Bond, marking a significant milestone in improving the city's mobility and pedestrian infrastructure. Over the past six years, the city has constructed or repaired more than 56 miles of sidewalks thanks to the $37.5 million investment.

City officials are proud to announce the accomplishment, which was completed one year ahead of schedule. The 2016 Mobility Bond was approved by Austin voters eight years ago, with the aim of making mobility safer and more convenient for everyone. Since then, the city has been diligently working on various transportation projects, including new streets, sidewalks, urban trails, bikeways, and safer routes to schools.

"The completion of the 2016 Mobility Bond sidewalk program is an important milestone for the city of Austin," said a spokesperson for the Austin Transportation and Public Works Department. "We are committed to improving the pedestrian infrastructure and ensuring the safety and convenience of all residents."

While the completion of the sidewalk program is a significant achievement, the need for new and rehabilitated sidewalks across the city remains high. The 2023 Sidewalks, Crossings, and Shared Streets plan has identified a need for 810 miles of sidewalks and 370 miles of shared streets. The shared streets program focuses on implementing traffic calming strategies and pedestrian-centered design to enhance the safety and comfort of neighborhood streets without sidewalks.

To address these ongoing needs, the city has received additional support from the community. In 2018, Austin voters approved a $20 million bond investment for sidewalk rehabilitation, and in 2020, an additional $80 million was allocated for new sidewalks.

"We are grateful for the continued support from the community," said the spokesperson. "With these additional funds, we can continue our efforts to fill the gaps in sidewalk infrastructure and make Austin a more pedestrian-friendly city."

The completed sidewalk program has already made a significant impact on the community. One recent project that showcases the city's commitment to improving pedestrian infrastructure is the construction of new sidewalks, crossings, a shared-use path, and protected bicycle lanes along East Yager Lane. Photos and videos of this project can be found on the Austin Mobility Bond website.

For more information on the completed sidewalk program, upcoming projects, and the city's plans for improving mobility, residents can visit the Austin Mobility Bond website. Additionally, an interactive map of sidewalk projects scheduled to begin in the next 30, 90, and 180 days is available for reference.

The Transportation and Public Works Department in Austin is dedicated to providing safe, reliable, and accessible mobility services for all residents. To learn more about their initiatives and services, visit AustinTexas.gov/TPW.

With the completion of the 2016 Mobility Bond sidewalk program, Austin has taken a significant step towards creating a more walkable and accessible city. The continued investment and commitment from the city and its residents will ensure that Austin remains at the forefront of mobility and pedestrian infrastructure improvements.

Click this link to access more information: https://www.austintexas.gov/news/austin-completes-2016-mobility-bond-sidewalk-program