The Texas Department of Transportation and Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority are hosting an open house to receive feedback on the proposed SH 71 Express Project that would add toll lanes near the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.

Residents can stop by anytime Aug. 13 from 6–8 p.m. at the Del Valle Opportunity Center, 5301-B Ross Road, Del Valle, southeast of the intersection of Hwy. 71 and SH 130. Attendees will be able to view maps, review project information and ask questions.

Announced in February, TxDOT's $141 million plan calls for adding one toll lane in each direction on Hwy. 71 between Presidential Boulevard, which is the main entrance to the airport, and SH 130. This project is part of TxDOT's overall plan to alleviate congestion near the airport while giving drivers the ability to drive from MoPac to the airport or SH 130 without stopping at a traffic signal.

"Anyone who commutes or has traveled on [Hwy.] 71 in the Austin area knows this is a very congested roadway," TxDOT Austin District Engineer Greg Malatek said in a news release. "We want the public to come learn about the project and provide us their input so we can identify what needs to be done to improve mobility, enhance safety and benefit the region."

TxDOT anticipates starting construction by the end of 2014 if it receives environmental clearance, with an anticipated completion date in late 2016.

The SH 71 Express Project will also involve construction of a bridge over SH 130 with ramps connecting the toll lanes and SH 130, reconstructing and realigning the intersection of Hwy. 71 and FM 973 and widening Hwy. 71 from Presidential Boulevard to SH 130 to allow for three nontolled lanes in each direction. Pedestrian and bicycle improvements will also be included, but TxDOT will first conduct public involvement outreach and receive feedback, TxDOT spokeswoman Kelli Reyna said.

During the Feb. 28 news conference, state Sen. Kirk Watson, D-Austin, a proponent of the project, explained the regional effect of the SH 71 Express Project.

"Now what we're doing is opening up SH 130 in a way that is very meaningful," Watson said. "People coming from the north—Waco, Georgetown—people coming from the south—Seguin—they'll be able to get off SH 130 and go to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport or on into Austin uninterrupted by traffic."

Residents who are unable to attend the open house may find additional information at www.sh71express.com. Comments may also be mailed to: TxDOT Austin District Environmental Coordinator, P.O. Box 15426, Austin, Texas 78761-5426. For general project information or to be placed on a mailing list, residents may contact Marisabel Ramthun, SH 71 Express Project manager, at [email protected].