Speak Up Against the MoPac South Expansion

The Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority (CTRMA) is  proposing to widen 8.77 miles of MoPac South from Enfield Road to Slaughter Lane, adding 6–8 new lanes and bringing the total width to as many as 13–18 lanes in some sections. The plan includes new toll lanes, auxiliary lanes, and bridges over Lady Bird Lake and Barton Creek. The expansion would push a massive highway footprint through the Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone, which feeds Barton Springs, alongside Zilker Park, Austin High School, and neighborhoods throughout the corridor.

We have a short amount of time to voice our opinion on this devastating plan. Please read tell CTRMA what matters most to you -- Barton Springs and water quality, endangered species like the Austin Blind salamander, the beloved Greenbelt trails, or your family’s health. A letter template is provided to help you get started, but we strongly encourage you to write your own message. Personalized, thoughtful comments are powerful and help ensure your voice stands out rather than being grouped with identical form letters.

SUBMIT COMMENTS TODAY TO PROTECT OUR WATER, WILDLIFE, AND AUSTIN COMMUNITIES

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Learn How We're Protecting Central Texas

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Barton Springs is the Soul of Austin

Nestled in the heart of Austin, Texas, Barton Springs is a natural paradise fed by underground springs. Renowned for its year-round 68º sparkling waters and lush surroundings, Barton Springs is a haven for people, wildlife, and several endangered species. Barton Springs is fed by the Edwards Aquifer, a vast and vital underground water source that runs beneath the Texas Hill Country. Edwards Aquifer sustains drinking water and nourishes our ecosystems. These two interconnected wonders define Austin, offering relaxation, recreation, and supporting life, which is why safeguarding them is crucial for our city and the environment.

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Victories

​Since 1992, the Save Our Springs Alliance (SOS) has been dedicated to protecting Barton Springs and the Edwards Aquifer.

1992 SOS Ordinance

Led the effort to pass the Save Our Springs Initiative Ordinance that enhanced water quality standards for development within the Barton Springs Zone of the Edwards Aquifer

Raising Conservation Funds

Helped secure over $260 million in voter-approved funds for conservation lands to protect the Edwards Aquifer and Barton Springs

Endangered Species Listings

Petitioned and won legal actions to require endangered species listings for the Barton Springs, Austin Blind, and Jollyville Plateau salamanders

Austin's Water Watchdog

Fought to keep major highway expansions and pipelines out of the Hill Country and away from environmentally sensitive watersheds

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Conservation

SOS advocates for strong Edwards Aquifer watershed protection policies in the face of the rapid climate shifts. This involves monitoring land development, advocating for responsible land use & wastewater practices, and supporting measures to prevent pollution and over-pumping of groundwater. These efforts ensure Barton Springs runs clean and clear for decades to come. ​

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Education and Outreach

Through public awareness campaigns, community outreach, and educational programs, SOS aims to alert residents, local business owners, and policymakers about the importance of preserving Edwards Aquifer, Barton Springs, and the critical Recharge Zone. ​

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Legal Advocacy

When necessary, SOS Alliance takes legal action to protect the Edwards Aquifer and the Texas Hill Country. By challenging developments and practices that pose significant threats to water quality via litigation or policy advocacy, we apply parameters to an otherwise unchecked growth engine.

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