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Lamar Boulevard Bridge

CIP 825-607-2050


Summary

In 1984, voters approved a project to widen the existing Lamar Boulevard Bridge over Town Lake from 4 lanes to 6 lanes. This project will examine alternatives to improve vehicular, pedestrian and bicycle flow on Lamar Boulevard from Riverside Drive to W. 5th Street. The widening alternative would include modification to the existing railroad bridge and evaluation of options for the adjacent 3rd Street bridge. The bridge itself is within the jurisdiction of the State of Texas.

Status

Preliminary engineering is near completion. As part of the preliminary engineering public input is currently being sought. This began with a public meeting September 10, 1996 and a public hearing October 24 and 31, 1996. Two to three more public hearings are anticipated. The City Council will be presented with the alternatives and results of public input before selection of an option on which preliminary engineering will be completed.

Issues

Federal ISTEA "Enhancement" funding ($953,252) has been approved for pedestrian/bicycle facilities, and $890,000 in Urban Street Program funds for street improvements. This funding is available as long as constructin is contracted by August 1999.

$6.3 million in bonds have been authorized, but not issued, for this project. $1.7 million has been sold for preliminary and final design, management and environmental assessment. Additional funding authorization may be required for construction, depending upon the option chosen and detailed design information becoming available.

The bridge is officially designated as a historic structure. Approval by the State Historic Commission will be required.

The City Council will act on a resolution Oct. 31, 1996 and may add a study to identify alternate routes.

Description

The proposed project will address capacity needs for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motor vehicles. Based upon ATS traffic projections and the Council-approved roadway plan, it appears that it will be necessary to add two lanes to Lamar Boulevard to address congestion, as well as improve pedestrian and bicycle facilities. This potentially includes modification to the existing railroad bridge and evaluation of the adjacent 3rd Street bridge to determine the need for replacement.

Basic Data

  • Project Manager: Richard Kroger, DPWT, 499-7219
  • Amount Appropriated: $8,002,000
  • Start (preliminary design): January 1995

    Revised October 30, 1996

    Back to the November 1996 Contents

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