Taylor officials seeking a state grant to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety and accessibility on the south side of town want to hear ideas from residents.
The grant could fund or improve sidewalks, walkways and bike paths, as well as reduce traffic congestion, proponents said.
The state recently asked Taylor to submit a detailed application to the Texas Department of Transportation’s Transportation Alternatives Set-aside Program, or TA, which grants funds for locally sponsored bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure projects.
According to officials, the Cross-Town Connector and FM 3349 projects “are being designed to create more accessible conduits for pedestrian movement throughout the community, to enhance connectivity and to promote alternative transportation for non-motorized travelers.”
Local representatives said the projects — if awarded — will put the city on a positive footing.
“We’re excited about it,” Mayor Dwayne Ariola said in a prepared release. “The proposed Cross-Town project will revitalize historic areas of South Taylor and provide needed improvements to accessibility for residents.”
TxDOT announced a statewide call for projects for the TA Program funding in January.
The initiative provides funding to plan for and construct a variety of alternative transportation projects “that improve safety and mobility for non-motorized travelers and mitigate congestion by providing safe alternatives to motor transport,” according to a release.
The selected projects will be recommended to the Texas Transportation Commission for current TA funds under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, totaling about $250 million.
Planners said the Cross-Town Connector and 3349 projects will provide non-motorized transportation opportunities and accessibility across the community, connecting residents to existing and planned transportation routes that link shopping, schools, hospitals/ medical clinics, libraries and local employment.
“We’re asking our community to come out and provide input,” said Tyler Bybee, city Parks and Recreation Department director. “We want to hear citizens’ thoughts about the possible project and how they see it benefiting the city and helping the residents in their daily lives.”
To have your voice heard, reach out to Bybee at tyler. [email protected].
