In a move to further improve mobility and ease traffic congestion in the Stone Oak area, San Antonio City Council passed an ordinance April 3 to acquire 10 easements as part of the city’s 2022 Bond Program project.

The overview

The unanimous decision allows the city to negotiate or condemn six permanent right of way easements and four temporary construction easements, but it also authorizes staff to invoke eminent domain if the need arises.

Prior to the vote, District 9 council member John Courage said the areas inscribed in the ordinance are essential to the completion of the District 9 Traffic and Mobility Improvements projects.

“These are significant areas that we're addressing for traffic in the northside in District 9. And in order to do that, we sit down and try and negotiate with property owners, but if we aren't able to do that, then we have the authority to use eminent domain,” Courage said.

According to city documents, the passage of the ordinance is due requirements under Texas Government Code Section 2206 and Texas Property Code Chapter 21.Though this ordinance grants city staff the ability to use the power of eminent domain, city officials state that the city intends to use every available effort to acquire the land through negotiations.

What else?

According to city documents, the 2022 Bond Program earmarked $5 million for roadway improvements, including turn lane bays, new traffic signals and modifications to existing medians.

Affected projects:

• Constructing a right only turn bay from Stone Oak Parkway to Evans Road
• Constructing a right only turn bay for Hardy Oak Boulevard onto Stone Oak Parkway
• Adding improvements on Evans Road from Peacemaker to Barbara Bush Middle School, such as a new traffic signal, new pedestrian signals and median modifications

Construction is estimated to begin in the fall and be completed by winter 2027.