Work on segment three begins in effort to enhance safety and improve mobility

AUSTIN — The Texas Department of Transportation joined Congressman John Carter, Williamson County officials, and Ft. Hood representatives to formally break ground and begin work on the next segment of State Highway 195.

The five-mile, $18.8 million project will rebuild the existing pavement from Interstate 35 to near Ronald Reagan Boulevard into a four-lane divided road with grassy median and shoulders, enhancing safety and improving mobility along this busy corridor.

Congressman Carter has long been a supporter of improving the road that connects Fort Hood to the Austin area.

“This is another step forward in the right direction,” Congressman Carter said. “By expanding Highway 195, we are improving the safety and quality of life for our soldiers and their families. This much-needed expansion also speaks to the need for a rapid response to our national defense responsibilities.”

Williamson County Commissioner Valerie Covey noted the county’s involvement in acquiring the right-of-way and assisting with utility relocation and environmental coordination to bring the long-awaited project to life.

Colonel Elledge from Ft. Hood also attended and spoke at the event. The Army has been interested in the highway because it is heavily used by soldiers and is a vital direct link between I-35 and the nation’s largest Army post.

An average of 14,000 vehicles uses this stretch of roadway each day. The project is the second of three covering more than 17 miles in Williamson County. Construction should take 24 months.

Work on the first segment of SH 195 began in April 2011, running from the Bell County line past Florence. The final segment, officially known as segment two, will join the two projects already underway and should begin this summer.

For more information, contact Kelli Reyna at (512) 832-7060.