TxDOT Partners With Local Nonprofits For Homeless Outreach Ahead Of I-35 And US 183 Interchange Construction

TxDOT and Nonprofit Partners Discuss Safety and Upcoming Construction Projects as Part of the Be Safe Be Seen Pedestrian Safety Campaign

In preparation for construction on the I-35 from Rundberg Lane to US 290 East project, TxDOT contractors and Integral Care hit the streets near the construction zone to hand out “Be Safe Be Seen” reflective bags to homeless residents. The bags included a House the Homeless resource guide and information about the upcoming construction project.

Representatives from Integral Care also informed them of resources available to assist with relocation and safety in preparation for construction.

“Be Safe Be Seen” is an ongoing effort by TxDOT, local nonprofit organizations and the Austin Police Department to keep pedestrians safe in Austin.

Late last year, TxDOT launched the new “Be Safe Be Seen” pedestrian safety campaign in an effort to improve pedestrian safety and reduce the number of fatalities and injuries occurring along I-35 through the Austin area. With six active construction projects underway, improvements being made along I-35 include the demolition and reconstruction of bridges which will displace homeless citizens.

December’s bag handout represents the first of many outreach initiatives that TxDOT crews and contractors will schedule in preparation for upcoming construction projects.

The I-35 from Rundberg Lane to US 290 East project will be the seventh active construction project along I-35. TxDOT contractors and partners will continue to hand out the “Be Safe Be Seen” reflective bags throughout construction, as well as during monthly bridge cleanups.

“Our hope is that our outreach efforts with the homeless community, in partnership with local nonprofit organizations, will ensure both safety and access to valuable resources for relocation and assistance to individuals most at risk,” said Diann Hodges, TxDOT public information officer. “These folks live and work near high-traffic areas and construction zones, and this campaign is an effort by TxDOT to assist the homeless population in being both safe and seen.”