The City of Round Rock’s roots go back more than 150 years and the town might never have been settled if it were not for the city’s namesake. The round rock was a distinctive marker for transportation then as it indicated a low-water crossing that allowed wagons and cattle to cross. Just as transportation was a factor in the formation of the city, it is also a vital factor in the future growth and development of Round Rock.

As we move forward, Round Rock, Williamson County, and all of Central Texas must work together to develop an infrastructure plan that will provide a comprehensive and affordable method of transportation for years to come. Investing in our roads and bridges now will provide Round Rock with a solid foundation to build upon.

The first transportation project on many people’s minds in Round Rock is the expansion of FM 1460. This road is a critical artery to many of our schools, health care facilities and businesses, which is why I was proud to have helped secure the vital funding that will finally allow for its improvement. The Texas Transportation Commission’s (TTC) allocation of $10 million will help to expand FM 1460 between Old Settlers Boulevard (FM 3405) and University Boulevard in Round Rock. FM 1460 currently only has 2 lanes with no shoulder. This project will expand the road to have 4 lanes with a yellow center turn lane and add shoulders.

Not only will the expansion of FM 1460 relive congestion in the area, but it will enhance the safety of driving on this heavily trafficked road. This new construction will directly impact several regional businesses and institutions that are vital to the area such as: Seton Hospital’s regional trauma center and medical offices, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Texas State University Round Rock, Austin Community College, Stony Point High School, and the Round Rock Premium Outlet Mall.

This construction would not have been possible without the forethought and efforts of many in the community who have been preparing for the area’s growth. County Commissioner Cynthia Long, Mayor Pro-Tem Joe Clifford, Round Rock Chamber of Commerce President Tom Manskey, Former Chair of the Round Rock Chamber’s Board of Directors, Stephen Laukhuf, and Chief of Public Works Tom Word are to be commended for their tireless work.

Moreover, State Senator Kirk Watson, as Chair of the Capitol Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO) board which I am a member of, gave tremendous support to obtain the funding.

As your State Representative and a member of CAMPO, I will continue working with and listening to input from the community. I first moved to Round Rock in the late-nineties to find more affordable homes, good public schools and safer neighborhoods for my two children. Like many other families, our roads were not my primary concern, but they are just as important to our safety and accessibility. With proper planning and development, we can continue to build our roads to the next generation.