Reconstruction of Congress Avenue

CIP #850-607-4100-2800-6203

Summary

In June, 1993, the City Council approved $1.5 million for reconstructing the outside lanes of Congress Avenue with reinforced concrete to accommodate the additional weight of heavy buses. Capitol Metro is contributing $218,818 toward the project. The project includes overlaying the remaining four lanes of Congress Avenue with a new layer of asphalt.

Status

The Water and Wastewater Utility has been replacing two venerable water lines, both of which run down the length of Congress Avenue. One water pipe is under the eastern-most lane, and the other is beneath the west side. The water pipes under every intersecting street are also being replaced.

Issues

The City of Austin and the contractor are reviewing the contract and the changes which have occurred since contract was approved in June, 1993. Officials in the Dept. of Public Works and Transportation are also following planning that Capitol Metro is doing for light rail and bus routes to be sure that the new construction will be appropriate.

The City of Austin and its Dept. of Public works and Transportation continues to work closely with merchants and business owners on Congress Avenue regarding this project and other transportation issues. For example, there is widespread agreement that there should be no major construction activity on Congress Avenue from Thanksgiving until after the holiday shopping season.

Description

Whatever the specifications for the new contract include, whether for light rail or for buses on Congress Avenue, utmost consideration will be given to enabling customers and clients to reach businesses on Congress Avenue. Alleys will also remain accessible on weekdays for business owners, their employees and, most important, their suppliers. Sidewalks will not be obstructed at any time.

Basic Data

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