West Lake Hills Mayor Dave Claunch said the city is progressing as expected on the acquisition of right of way for the widening of Bee Caves Road. He said the city has been collecting right of way over the years and has more than half of the required land.

Claunch said one-third of the remaining land will be acquired through friendly sale, one-third through negotiating a sale price or development considerations and one-third through eminent domain.

"I think most people recognize that [the acquisition of right of way] needs to happen and is going to get done, but a portion of the property owners are hoping to be paid a large amount of money for the right of way," he said.

He said there are still a few land owners who are nonresponsive or not willing to negotiate.

"It definitely slows things down and puts the project at risk," Claunch said.

He said a panel decides what the property is worth if the land is acquired through eminent domain.

"I'm disappointed that several large property owners that were originally willing to donate are now demanding very large payments for their right of way," he said. "The project is in their best interest as the center turn lane will benefit their customers, employees and members."