The Texas Department of Transportation announced July 3 it would award $33.3 million to expand the final segment of Hwy. 195 in Williamson County.

According to a TxDOT news release SEMA Construction was awarded the contract for the project that will separate traffic in the final section of Hwy. 195 from just south of Ronald Reagan Boulevard to just south of CR 233. The highway will eventually be a four-lane divided road with a grassy median and shoulders to improve mobility and enhance safety along the corridor.

"[Hwy.] 195 is one the most highly traveled roadways in Williamson County, and I am thrilled that construction on the last segment will begin soon," said Valerie Covey, Williamson County Precinct 3 commissioner, in a statement. "The collaboration between Williamson County and TxDOT has made this vital safety and mobility project a reality."

Work on the third and final segment of the Hwy. 195 reconstruction project is scheduled to begin this fall and be completed in spring 2016, according to the release.

The project will stretch approximately 6.8 miles along Hwy. 195 and will include an overpass at Ronald Reagan Boulevard, according to the release. SEMA is also constructing the segment immediately to the east, from just south of Ronald Reagan Boulevard to I-35.

"As Texas roadways become increasingly crowded, we must find ways to relieve congestion without compromising safety," said Phil Wilson, TxDOT executive director, in a statement. "Keeping travelers moving safely and efficiently will continue to be an ongoing priority as Texas welcomes nearly 1,000 newcomers each day."

The money comes from the Texas Transportation Commission, which funds TxDOT.