Williamson County Secures $20M Grant for Urgent Road Safety Upgrade

BREAKING: Williamson County, Texas, has just secured over $20 million in federal funding aimed at enhancing road safety across key cities. This significant award comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program, marking a crucial step toward achieving zero traffic fatalities in the area.

This urgent update was announced today, as Williamson County becomes the only community in Texas to receive this vital grant. The funding will contribute to a larger $25.2 million project, benefiting cities including Cedar Park, Georgetown, Round Rock, and Taylor.

County Judge Steve Snell emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “As I talk with residents around the county, they consistently say transportation is a key issue. This is a great example of the county working with the great cities of Williamson County for the common good of the citizens.”

The SS4A grant will finance the installation of 3,648 retroreflective signal backplates at 238 intersections, 75 rectangular rapid flashing beacons, and 32 speed feedback signs. Additionally, improvements will include raised medians, enhanced lighting, access management, sidewalks, ramp reversals, and intersection upgrades on high-priority corridors throughout Williamson County.

Another critical aspect of this funding is the planned relocation of the southbound entrance ramp between the main lanes of Interstate 35 and the frontage road at the Southwest Bypass in Georgetown.

Approximately 80% of the project’s funding will come from the SS4A grant, complemented by a local match of $4.9 million. This local contribution is sourced from Williamson County Road and Bridge funds, the 2023 voter-approved WilCo Road Bond, and additional funding from local city governments, which will spearhead the implementation of these projects.

Commissioner Russ Boles highlighted the collaborative effort, stating, “As county commissioners, we take the lead in working with our cities to ensure our transportation plans are coordinated and cohesive. When we partner together and pursue grants, we are able to amplify the positive impact to our residents.”

This funding comes at a critical time. Between 2019 and 2023, Williamson County recorded 248 fatalities and 1,254 serious injuries on its roadways. The county asserts that this grant funding is essential for addressing safety concerns and preventing serious crashes.

As the implementation of these safety measures begins, residents can expect noticeable improvements on their roads. The collaborative efforts of local leadership and the securing of this substantial grant signal a commitment to making Williamson County a safer place for all.

Stay tuned for more updates as the county moves forward with this transformative project.