Reagan Boulevard extension to be alternate route to I-35

Bob Daigh, Williamson County senior director of infrastructure, said the project has support from throughout the county.

"I would say in the community there is enormous support, and everyone recognizes when you look at a map of the obvious need for having a western alternative to [Interstate] 35," he said.

Covey said she believes the extension will benefit not only her precinct, but also any resident who wants to avoid driving on I-35.

"I think that's why the road has been popular, not just with Precinct 3 voters, but also [in] Precinct 1 and 2 and the whole county, because it does allow mobility in an area that didn't have it before," she said. "Those that live in Precinct 1 might want to go to Dallas and could use that path. It's part of a regional plan for mobility and safety."

The commissioners first identified the project as a priority in 2000, and construction is being funded through county bonds. Upon completion, both phases will include two lanes with shoulders.

"The county commissioners recognized that mobility on the western side of the county would be dramatically enhanced, along with the safety for citizens, if Parmer Lane were extended northward and ultimately up to I-35," Daigh said.