The Texas Department of Transportation was joined by officials from Bastrop County and the city of Bastrop to kick off construction of the SH 71 at the Colorado River project.

The Texas Department of Transportation was joined today by officials from Bastrop County and the city of Bastrop to kick off construction of the SH 71 at the Colorado River project. The project includes the construction of nine independent bridges, a new westbound exit ramp across the river, as well as a new eastbound entrance ramp at the Union Pacific Railroad.

"This project is part of a larger, corridor-wide effort," said Tucker Ferguson, TxDOT Austin District engineer. "About a mile east of this area, we recently opened an overpass at SH 95 that has resulted in a noticeable improvement in traffic flow and we expect this project to do the same."

The SH 71 at Colorado River project will extend frontage roads across the river on separate bridges, increasing mobility for local traffic in the area.

"As mayor, I am excited to see this enormous project under way," said Bastrop Mayor Connie Schroeder. "The frontage road bridges will positively impact each and every citizen of Bastrop by improving safety and quality of life. I encourage everyone to be patient during the construction, as the finished project will be well worth the wait."

Bastrop County is thrilled to see the project move forward as well.

"I've lived in Bastrop for more than two decades and have seen the area grow tremendously," said Bastrop County Commissioner Mel Hamner. "These improvements are welcome for all of us living and driving through the county."

The $50.4 million project is expected to be complete by late 2022, weather permitting. The contractor is Capital Excavation Company.

For more information, visit TxDOT.gov.

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