How it happened
The long-term closure comes after several significant crashes and rollovers with trucks and trucks with trailers at the switchback curves near the Pedernales River crossing on Hamilton Pool Road, Travis County officials said. The crashes caused hourslong lane closures in both directions along the road until the wrecks were cleared.
Signs have been posted along Hamilton Pool Road and the roads leading up to it to warn drivers of the closure.
The Transportation and Natural Resources Department informed several digital mapping companies of the closure so they can provide route alternatives for trucks in the area, Travis County officials said.
Why it matters
Truck drivers who violate the new policy could get hit with a $150 fine, officials said, or $200 if the violation results in a collision or accident.
Quote of note
“The safety of our constituents on Travis County roads will always be a priority for me and my colleagues on the Commissioners Court,” said Travis County Commissioner Ann Howard in a news release. “I am hopeful this new safety measure to restrict truck access will help prevent tragic accidents and improve traffic congestion at the same time."
