The proposed MoPac expansion endangers up to ten known habitats of the Barton Springs and Austin blind salamanders and threatens the Edwards Aquifer. Scientific dye-tracing and field studies by the City of Austin and the Barton Springs/Edwards Aquifer Conservation District show that pollution entering the aquifer in the MoPac South corridor can reach Barton Springs in a matter of days, putting these irreplaceable waters and species directly in harm’s way.

Better MoPac Coalition unites neighbors, business owners, and conservation groups to oppose the 6-8 lane expansion of MoPac South. We advocate for safer, smarter alternatives — including REAL transit solutions — while protecting our water, wildlife, and communities. 

The public comment period ended Sunday, May 3rd. CTRMA has entered the formal review phase, which includes reviewing all submitted comments and preparing a Public Hearing Report as part of the NEPA process. Every comment received must be reviewed, responded to, and posted publicly. CTRMA staff are responsible for addressing each submission and will ultimately make a recommendation on how to proceed. We expect that recommendation, and the next major decision point, to come in late summer or fall 2026.
In the meantime, we will continue to apply pressure and ensure strong public oversight. We will also be sharing expert reports and summary comments from Save Our Springs and the Better MoPac Coalition in the coming weeks.​

READ MOPAC COMMENTS AND EXPERT REPORTS

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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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