The Texas Department of Transportation and Williamson County broke ground on the third segment of the Hwy. 195 improvement project Feb. 11.

The $18.8 million project will reconstruct the existing two-lane road to a four-lane divided roadway in an effort to increase safety and mobility for residents and soldiers traveling from Fort Hood on Hwy. 195 through Williamson County.

"This is another step forward in the right direction," U.S. Rep. John Carter, R-Round Rock, said at the ground breaking. "By expanding Hwy. 195, we are improving the safety and quality of life for our soldiers and their families. This much-needed expansion also speaks to the need for a rapid response to our national defense responsibilities."

The third segment runs from just south of Ronald Reagan Boulevard to I-35. About 14,000 vehicles travel the roadway each day, according to TxDOT. Construction is expected to be completed in 24 months.

Williamson County Commissioner Valerie Covey said the county is finishing work on right of way acquisition and utility relocation for the second segment of the project that extends north from just south of Ronald Reagan Boulevard to just south of CR 233. Construction on that segment is expected to begin this summer.

The project's funding comes from Proposition 14 bond money approved in 2003 and reauthorized in 2007. The bond money is backed by federal and state highway funds. Williamson County commissioners also approved $10 million–$12 million to help pay for right of way acquisition, utilities and consultant costs.

The first segment, which runs from just south of the Bell County line to the start of the second segment, broke ground in April 2011 and is expected to cost $39.2 million. Construction is expected to be completed in February 2014.