TxDOT seeking public feedback on possible SH 21 revamp

TEXAS (KXAN) — The Texas Department of Transportation will host an in-person and virtual public meeting later this week about a proposed improvement project for State Hwy. 21.

The state agency is evaluating possible safety and mobility enhancements along SH 21 between SH 80 and SH 130. TxDOT is studying 17.7 miles of the highway, with specific considerations including expanded capacity in both directions and added bicycle and pedestrian upgrades.

While configurations vary along the roadway, TxDOT documents note SH 21 primarily features one lane in each direction and alternating passing lanes along with the occasional center-turn lanes and dedicated left-turn lanes.

The intended goal of the project is to help expand traffic capacity and safety amid rapid growth in both Hays and Caldwell counties. From 2010 to 2022, Hays and Caldwell counties grew 70.3% and 25.6%, per TxDOT documents and analysis.

TxDOT is currently in the environmental process and schematic design phases, which are estimated to run into 2025. Future finalized design work, right-of-way acquisition, utility adjustments and construction timeframes have yet to be determined.

Thursday's in-person meeting will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Uhland Elementary School, located at 2331 High Road in Uhland. The virtual meeting will be published by 5 p.m. Thursday online, and the meeting will be available in both English and Spanish.

TxDOT is collecting public comments on the proposal through Sept. 13. Those interested in sharing comments can do so the following ways:

• In person at the meeting via a public comment form
• Online at txdot.gov after searching "SH 21 Hays and Caldwell"
• Via emailing AUS_SH21WEST@txdot.gov
• Leaving a voicemail at 512-342-3400
• Via mailing a comment to the following address:
  • TxDOT Project Manager
    TxDOT Austin District
    7901 N. I-35
    Austin, TX 78753

More details are available online.