The plan includes the possibility of adding two additional I-35 crossings at Kohlers Crossing and near RM 158.
According to the plan, the network would allow the city of Kyle to be proactive in identifying right of way critical to accommodating the city’s growth. However, Council Member Michael Tobias said he had heard from citizens concerned about their land.
“One of my big concerns that I have, of course, is the proposed roads because I've been having conversations over the phone and by email and in person by individuals, residents, longtime residents here that are very frightened and concerned these roads are going to go through their property,” Tobias said.
Kyle City Manager Scott Sellers said there are potential benefits to the community from adding roads.
“Typically when the city builds a road through a property, it adds value to the property and creates more development opportunity there,” Sellers said.
Sellers added that the plan will not immediately be put in place and that there will be more opportunities for public feedback.
The plan notes that the city is preparing for continued explosive growth, reaching a population of 150,000 by 2045. Kyle City Engineer Leon Barba said the growth underscores the need for most east to west connectivity in the city.
“Three crossings is definitely not enough, so we're trying to try to spread out the crossings throughout the city so you can at least have five crossings through the city that'll get people east and west,” Barba said.
A citywide trail in Kyle
Sellers also presented a plan for a citywide trail network, tentatively referred to as the “Vybe.”
The proposed plan would be designed to accommodate non-automobile forms of mobility, including golf carts, walking and cycling. It also would allow for Kyle to tap into the existing trail network from Austin to San Antonio.
“I'm excited about everything, but I'm really excited by this plan here,” Sellers said.
According to the plan, the city has identified 51 miles for construction. It also included a range of potential funding sources available to the city, including state and federal appropriations, the city's general fund, grants and bonds already approved by voters.
The projects will also provide health and economic benefits to the community, Sellers said.
“There's just so many benefits of creating a robust trail network,” Sellers said. “We've seen the push in our recreation plan for a trail network. We've seen a push in our community household survey for trails.”
