Explained
City officials said the changes could increase parking in the Old Town area from about 141 existing spaces to more than 400 by reconfiguring streets and adjusting traffic flow between Hwy. 79 and Live Oak Street and along portions of FM 1660.
“I think we’re going from 141 to 401. That’s going to drastically impact downtown and create a lot of opportunity for business down there with parking,” said city engineer Matt Rector during a council work shop.
Under the approved concept, several streets in Old Town would change traffic direction, while others would see more limited adjustments:
- East Street to become northbound only and serve as the first phase of implementation
- Main Street to become southbound only in a later phase
- West Street to become northbound only in a later phase
- Farley Street to remain mostly two-way, with a right-in, right-out configuration near FM 1660
- Pecan Street to remain two-way, with no one-way conversion proposed
City staff said the changes will be rolled out in phases rather than all at once, beginning with East Street.
The initial phase is expected to focus on signage, striping and traffic direction changes, with full construction, such as curb, gutter, sidewalks and drainage, planned for later stages following detailed surveys and utility analysis.
Officials emphasized the plan remains conceptual and that no construction timeline or cost estimates have been finalized.
Additional public notification is expected ahead of each phase, including electronic message boards, updated traffic signs and coordination with navigation apps.
Further details on timing, costs and final design are expected to be presented at a future meeting.
