January 4th, 2014
Downtown construction shifts to North LBJ Drive

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SUBMITTED REPORT

The west side of North LBJ Drive, from Hopkins Street to University Drive, will be closed to traffic and parking beginning Jan. 6 for excavation and construction as part of the Downtown Reconstruction Project.
 
Traffic will be reduced to one lane northbound, and parking will be available only on the east side of the street. To avoid delays, motorists should choose alternate routes. Multi-axle trucks and other large vehicles will not be able to turn on to LBJ from Hopkins and will be directed to CM Allen Parkway.
 
The project is a $10.2 million streetscape and utility reconstruction that will make the downtown area more walkable and pedestrian friendly. 
 
Improvements will provide street and sidewalk reconstruction, underground electric and telecommunications, drainage, water and wastewater improvements, and pedestrian amenities including lighting, trees, landscaping, bicycle racks and benches.
 
The project incorporates standards from the Downtown Master Plan. RGM Constructors of Texas of Pflugerville is the contractor. Construction started in August 2012 and is expected to be completed this fall.

COVER A backhoe excavates part of North LBJ Drive in November 2012 as part of a major reconstruction project. Work is shifting back to LBJ from Hutchison Street starting on Monday. The project is scheduled to be completed in September. MERCURY PHOTO by BRAD ROLLINS