I-35 Lawsuit Gains Momentum with Key Expert Testimony Ruling

Last week, we had an important victory in our ongoing lawsuit against the proposed expansion of I-35 in Central Austin, Rethink35 et al v. TxDOT. To strengthen our case, we enlisted the expertise of Krish Vijayaraghavan, a nationally recognized environmental expert with over 20 years of experience. His analysis confirmed something alarming: PM2.5 (fine particulate matter) pollution levels in the project area already exceed the EPA’s updated safety standard of 9.0 µg/m³, finalized just last year. This means the proposed expansion could worsen air quality, further endangering Austin residents—especially those in historically Black and Latino neighborhoods already facing high rates of respiratory illness.Although TxDOT’s attorneys tried to block Mr. Vijayaraghavan’s testimony, the court ruled in our favor, ensuring that his critical findings remain part of the case. This ruling is a win for transparency and accountability, and it gives us important momentum as we push for a supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to fully assess the project’s potential harm to Austin’s communities.

We’re now entering the final stages of this lawsuit, and the next few weeks will be pivotal. This effort has been fueled by the hard work and resources of our community, especially Rethink35 and our co-plaintiffs. But we can’t finish this fight without your help.
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If you believe in fighting for cleaner air and water, healthier neighborhoods, and a better future for Austin, please consider making a donation to help finish this lawsuit. Let’s push for a better future together.

Don’t let the rain over the past couple of weeks fool you. The Texas Hill County is still in a drought with flows from Barton Springs barely above the threshold for Stage IV drought. The Barton Springs discharge flow rate is a shocking 12 cubic feet per second according to the current USGS water data, with the average being 66 cfs.

With March expected to be hotter and drier than normal, every drop counts. Please join us in continuing to conserve water as much as possible by following these simple tips. Our aquifers, springs, and endangered salamanders depend on your actions. Additionally, consider taking advantage of residential rebate programs that save water and money:
Austin Water Rebates
LCRA Service Area Rebates
City of Kyle Rebates
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Stay informed by reading the latest drought update from BSEACD and make sure you're doing your part to conserve and protect our precious water. 

SOS is Now on Bluesky and Meetup!We’re expanding our reach! Follow us on Bluesky (our handle is @ savoursprings.bsky.social) It's a great alternative to the Meta monopoly—where we’ll be posting updates, actions, and news more regularly.

Join us on Meetup to stay up to date on eco-tours, snorkel adventures, and other upcoming events. Let’s connect, explore, and protect our springs together!
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 Follow us on Bluesky here
 Join our Meetup group here

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Explore Barton Creek with Us! We kicked off our first eco-tour of the season this past Saturday in honor of International Women’s Day, and it was an incredible experience! Huge thanks to Kirstin Boyd-Farmer of Westcave Preserve for leading the way.

Don't miss our upcoming adventures:
 Saturday, March 22 – Hill of Life Trailhead: Upper falls Hike & Swim with Andrew Harrod of Save Barton Creek Association
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 Sunday, March 30 – Lost Creek Greenbelt Trailhead to Upper Falls with Ed Crowell, SBCA board member and author of Barton Creek (2019)

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As we face unprecedented challenges, it’s clear that the fight for our future depends on each of us showing up with resolve, compassion, and unity. Stay tuned for updates on our lawsuits and how you can help. For now, your support allows us to continue our critical work.

Onwards,
SOS Alliance