Work to begin on Cotton Gin Road low-water crossing at Porter Creek

Staff Reports

Hays County’s Transportation Department is gearing up to begin low-water crossing improvements on Cotton Gin Rd. east of Kyle. The project, part of Hays County’s low-water crossing improvement plan, began under Commissioner Mark Jones, Pct. 2, and was transferred to Commissioner Debbie Ingalsbe, Pct. 1, following the county’s redistricting in 2021.

“The ongoing work to low-water crossings in Hays County is vital to our continued goal of safer roads,” Jones said. “I have every confidence in the project outcome under the expert guidance of Commissioner Ingalsbe.”

The work, which will be isolated to the low-water crossing directly west of Porter Creek Court, is slated to begin on or about February 21.

According to Jerry Borcherding, P.E., director of the county’s transportation department, the project involves replacing existing undersized corrugated metal pipes with five 10-foot x 5-foot boxes.

“The project includes new safety guard rails and streambank stabilization,” he said. “The improvements will significantly reduce overtopping of the road and will connect with the recently completed improvements along Cotton Gin Rd.”

He added that upon completion of the project, all disturbed areas will be revegetated.                                                                                                                                          

“I understand how important the enhancements and upgrades of our low-water crossings are to county residents,” Commissioner Ingalsbe said. “I look forward to working with our Transportation Department on this project.”

A detour route has been created for this closure. Cotton Gin Road will remain open for all residents; however, travelers should allow for additional time to navigate the detour route. (See map below)

• Travelers trying to access US 21 from Cotton Gin Road will be diverted southwest on Goforth Road and turn southeast to Bunton Lane and follow the roadway as it turns northeast into CR 151/Dairy Road until its intersection with Cotton Gin Road.
• Travelers trying to access Goforth Road from Cotton Gin Road will be diverted southwest from Cotton Gin Road onto CR 151/Dairy Road until it turns northwest into Bunton Lane and then turn northeast to Goforth Road.

This detour will be in place from February 2022 until the targeted completion date of June 2022.

The project, valued at $838,515.87, is being funded through the 2016 voter-approved Hays County Road Bonds program. The Design Engineer is Garver, LLC and the Contractor is SB Contractors. Hays County and Garver will be responsible for managing and inspecting the construction.

For any questions about the project, please contact Hays County Transportation at 512-393-2182.