With TxDOT unwilling to cancel a controversial freeway expansion project, the city is looking for funding to mitigate the projected impacts.
Austin officials could apply for a federal grant of up to $124 million to fund deck plazas over Interstate 35, reports Kelsey Thompson for KXAN. The grant application is directed at the Our Future 35 program, an initiative to mitigate the impact of the Texas Department of Transportation’s plan to expand the freeway despite local objections. “Those deck plazas could support community resources like parkland and green space, public art, small buildings and other amenities.”
The total capping effort could range in cost between $600 and $800 million. According to Thompson, “The application comes more than a month after the city received $105.2 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Neighborhood Access and Equity program to support cap and stitch efforts.” However, the expansion project will likely still have negative impacts on local emissions and air quality.
FULL STORY: Austin could seek $124M federal grant to add highway coverings on top of I-35
Austin’s Vision for I-35 Cap Parks Takes Final Shape
The city’s plan includes parks, entertainment pavilions, commercial space, sports fields, and other facilities over 30 acres of deck parks spanning a sunken Interstate 35.
Austin Freeway Expansion Fight Continues
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Austin in Race Against Time to Secure Freeway Cap Funding
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Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
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Why Should We Subsidize Public Transportation?
Many public transit agencies face financial stress due to rising costs, declining fare revenue, and declining subsidies. Transit advocates must provide a strong business case for increasing public transit funding.
How to Make US Trains Faster
Changes to boarding platforms and a switch to electric trains could improve U.S. passenger rail service without the added cost of high-speed rail.
Columbia’s Revitalized ‘Loop’ Is a Hub for Local Entrepreneurs
A focus on small businesses is helping a commercial corridor in Columbia, Missouri thrive.
Invasive Insect Threatens Minnesota’s Ash Forests
The Emerald Ash Borer is a rapidly spreading invasive pest threatening Minnesota’s ash trees, and homeowners are encouraged to plant diverse replacement species, avoid moving ash firewood, and monitor for signs of infestation.
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