Opposition to TxDOT's Proposal for a 12 Lane Highway from 1826 to RR12

We, the undersigned citizens of Texas, call on the Texas Department of Transportation to produce a 6 lane highway design with no frontage roads for the stretch of Highway 290 between 1826 and RR12.

We do not need local traffic to be separated from through traffic with frontage roads, as stated by TxDOT.

In light of the budget restraints of TxDOT, it is fiscally irresponsible for TxDOT to propose a 6 lane highway with 6 lanes of frontage roads. It will most likely need to be compensated with tolls that many Hays residents will oppose.

Further, a 12 lane highway with a right of way of 300-400 feet harms the region served by Highway 290 because it will foster more suburban sprawl, condemn too many businesses, and produce excessive runoff in a water sensitive region. A 12 lane highway will also not follow TxDOTs goals of Context Sensitive Design because it will destroy the aesthetic appeal of the drive, create a hallow of lights that will dilute our night skies, and increase noise levels to unacceptable levels for many residents.

We urge TxDOT to consider a less expensive, 6 lane (primarily at grade) highway with no frontage roads, improved intersections with no traffic lights, ample space for right and left turning vehicles, consolidated access for businesses, access roads behind businesses as needed and wide shoulders. We ask that TxDOT work with Capital Metro to establish plans for mass transit, such as park-n-ride stations, and install advanced traffic management devices, such as computerized speed limit signs. Such quality highway improvements and traffic management will make this a safe and efficient highway system that will accommodate projected 2030 traffic demands.