Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority Gives Update On 183 South Construction

Current activities range from paving the new mainlanes and general-purpose lanes to bridge work, retaining wall construction, earthwork, utility relocations and more.

In spite of the hurricane, construction activity along the 183 South Project corridor continues at a rapid pace and the design-build contractor, Colorado River Constructors (CRC), is increasing their workforce to ensure sufficient manpower.

Current activities range from paving the new mainlanes and general-purpose lanes to bridge work, retaining wall construction, earthwork, utility relocations and more.

Unique Bridge Structures Taking Place

Some of the most noticeable progress is reflected in the bridges that are starting to take shape along the corridor. The most identifiable feature of those bridges is the Delta Bent Portals, or “V” Bents, that can be seen in the ground at various locations, including the MLK Jr. Blvd.(FM 969) Intersection and the SH 71 interchange.

This unique, never-before-constructed design was selected by members of the community who shared their input on a number of different design options during the project’s environmental study process.
 

New Bridge Restores Mobility on FM 969

Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority (CTRMA) is reporting following a 6-month+ lane reduction on the MLK Jr. Boulevard/FM 969 bridge over US 183, the original capacity has been fully restored on the newly constructed bridge.

The south-to-north U-turn is now open to traffic, and additional widening of the new bridge continues. Bridge work is also ongoing at the Colorado River, Airport Boulevard interchange, Montopolis Tributary, SH 71 interchange, the turnaround at Boggy Creek, Little Walnut Creek and Manor/Springdale Road.

Bridging US 183 at Loyola Lane Involves Patience

For those who have driven the US 183 corridor recently, you’ll notice that significant intersection work is occurring at Loyola Lane and US 183.

A multi-phased effort began last month with the ultimate goal of rebuilding the intersection. Loyola Lane, in its final condition, will be a bridge over US 183. The elevation will be the same as it is today, while the mainlanes of the future 183 South will be depressed underneath Loyola Lane.

Current impacts to the traveling public at this intersection include the reduction of Loyola Lane east of US 183 to one lane in each direction and the closure of one of the two left turn lanes from southbound US 183 onto Loyola Lane (eastbound).

Subsequent phases of work later this year will involve a temporary closure of Loyola Lane on the west of US 183 so that crews can construct the new general-purpose lanes and the approaches to US 183.

In 2018, a complete temporary closure of the Loyola Lane crossing over US 183 will be necessary for crews to construct the new Loyola Lane bridge over the future 183 South mainlanes. This extended temporary closure will last several months, and will impact routes available to the traveling public.

All traffic on Loyola Lane approaching US 183 from both directions will turn right onto US 183. Southbound traffic will use the MLK Jr. Blvd. turnaround, and northbound traffic will use the Manor /Springdale Rd. turnaround to change directions and access Loyola Lane on the opposite side of US 183.

We thank you for your continued patience as we work to improve mobility in East Austin.

Turn of Events To Improve Mobility in Montopolis Area

A big change is coming to the planned 183 South bridge over Patton Avenue. In response to feedback from the community, the Mobility Authority decided to expand the bridge and add a Texas turnaround at Patton Avenue. Now drivers heading south on the US 183 general purpose lanes will be able to utilize a U-turn at Patton Avenue to head back north without having to wait at stop signs or traffic lights.

183 South Project Improving Utility Service for East Austin Residents
 
Much of the work taking place on 183 South involves the relocation and enhancement of utilities along the corridor including water, sewer, gas, electric and communication lines. Recently, the project team added another major enhancement, the installation of a new 72-inch sewer line underneath US 183 near Little Walnut Creek. The new line will cost approximately $1 million dollars and will be paid for by the City of Austin. The new line will ensure East Austin residents have reliable and adequate sewer service for years to come.