Dec 9th Community Meeting - Help Protect Barton Springs: Demand a Full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)

Join us for the Open House TODAY, Monday, December 9, 2024 at 5:30PM
Austin High School Cafeteria1715 W. Cesar Chavez St., Austin, TX 78703

The Mopac South expansion project (yes, the one we helped halt in 2015) is back and CTRMA is charging forward. The proposal includes up to 7 additional lanes in some locations and wastes million of dollars on yet another lengthy and damaging construction projection.  The Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority (CTRMA) is bypassing a comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), which could significantly impact the Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone, Whirlpool Cave, and endangered species like the Austin Blind Salamander. PLEASE COME OUT TODAY at 5:30pm at Austin High School in the cafeteria to find out more about the proposal, and ask CTRMA questions. We will need to show in full force today and for the foreseeable future to hold the CTRMA accountable and prevent unnecessary harm in the name of saving 5 minutes in traffic.
"More road lane access would continue the exploitation of the Hill Country, the headwaters of our creeks, and home of endangered species. The CTRMA and TDOT must recognize the marginal utility of new roads and expand their mandate to include mass transit such as light rail and commuter rail. An Environmental Impact Statement is required."
- Austin Sierra Club

Why Attend the Meeting?

• CTRMA is moving forward without a full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), despite demands from Travis County and environmental leaders that say we NEED it.
• The expansion offers only a 5-minute travel time reduction. We want to hear from you - it worth the cost and environmental harm? What are the alternatives?
• This expansion, along with Hays County’s proposal to connect SH 45 to I-35, would increase overall traffic, turning Mopac from a local commuter highway into an alternative I-35

​More Ways to Speak OutWe need a wave of public comments demanding that the CTRMA hit the brakes on this reckless expansion and explore a "low-build" alternative that focuses on strategic upgrades rather than a massive widening. Think . . . improved lane efficiency, better public transit, and targeted improvements that don't sacrifice our environment for a few extra miles of asphalt.
The deadline is December 29th at midnight, so we don't have a moment to lose. Will you take a few minutes right now to submit a comment and make your voice heard?

SUBMIT COMMENTS HERE

Together, we can guide the CTRMA toward a solution that considers the integrity and protection for the heart of Austin – our clean water, fresh air, and natural spaces.
We will see you tonight at the meeting, please spread the word!
- SOS Alliance

READ MORE AT KEEP MOPAC LOCAL