The Austin Transportation and Public Works Department announced progress on three major Northwest Austin projects that will enhance safety, mobility and flood resilience for residents of Burnet Road, Oak Knoll and Spicewood Springs. The updates, released in August and September, outline construction timelines, key improvements and the next steps for each corridor.
Burnet Road Mobility Program
The Burnet Road Mobility Program spans three segments—C2, C3 and C4—running from White Horse Trail to US 183 (C2), Bright Verde Way to MoPac (C3) and US 183 to Bright Verde Way (C4). The city will install updated traffic signals, improve crosswalks, add curb extensions, upgrade drainage, and build ADA‑compliant shared‑use paths. Additional features include raised medians, new bus stops and better trail connections.
Construction on all three segments began in early June 2026. The city expects the C2 segment to be finished by July 2027, followed by C4 in October 2027 and C3 by December 2028. Officials say the phased approach allows traffic to remain moving while critical upgrades are completed.
Oak Knoll Flood Risk Reduction
Part of the Watershed Protection Department’s Capital Improvement Program, the Oak Knoll Flood Risk Reduction project will modernize the storm‑drain system in the Oak Knoll neighborhood. New pipes and inlets will be installed on several streets and easements, and the capacity of the Chelsea Moor detention pond will be increased to better manage heavy rains.
According to a September 1 update, crews are currently installing a box culvert on Columbia Oaks Drive. The initial phase of construction is slated to finish this fall, with the bulk of the work expected to wrap up in early 2028.
Spicewood Springs Road Regional Mobility Project
The Spicewood Springs Road Regional Mobility Project will widen the two‑lane road to four lanes, add left‑turn bays, create two water detention ponds, and construct pedestrian and bicycle shared‑use paths. The project also includes upgrades to the storm‑drain system, water transmission and wastewater lines.
Weather‑related delays during spring and summer pushed the projected substantial completion from late 2026 to summer 2027. Starting in September, crews will begin work on the shared‑use pathways on both sides of Spicewood Springs Road, while rain‑garden installations and lane paving will continue through the fall.
What These Improvements Mean for Residents
City officials emphasize that the projects are designed to support growing traffic volumes, improve safety for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians, and protect neighborhoods from flooding. By adding curb extensions and raised medians, the city aims to reduce vehicle speeds and provide clearer crossing points for pedestrians, aligning with Austin’s broader vision for a multimodal transportation network.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed about construction schedules and detour routes. The Transportation and Public Works Department will provide regular updates through its website and social‑media channels, ensuring the community can plan around temporary disruptions.
Looking Ahead
These three projects illustrate Austin’s commitment to modernizing infrastructure while preserving the character of Northwest neighborhoods. As each segment moves toward completion, the city expects smoother traffic flow, safer streets and reduced flood risk for families and businesses along Burnet Road, Oak Knoll and Spicewood Springs.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Austin — read the source article.
