28-05-2025
A ‘long overdue' groundbreaking on Ross Road improvements
DEL VALLE, Texas (KXAN) — For years, we've reported on the growth in Del Valle and the impact that it has had on Ross Road — a key corridor for that community and its students.
'Since I've been out here, I think I've heard about three times long overdue,' said Anna Martin, the Assistant Director for the city of Austin Transportation and Public Works Department.
The city broke ground on a road deemed substandard in Del Valle, a project that has been in the works since 2018.
Ross Road, between State Highway 71 and Pearce Lane, will get an overhaul.
'With the explosive growth that is happening in our school district, there is a lot of congestion, and so with this major thoroughfare, the expansion is really going to improve the quality of life, and it is going to enhance safety for our community,' said Matthew Gutierrez, the Del Valle ISD superintendent.
Ross Road is currently only two lanes, and in some areas doesn't have sidewalks, but once construction is complete that stretch of Ross Road will be four lanes with center medians, shared use paths, upgraded traffic signals, new lighting and upgrades to water drainage.
The shared use paths will play a very important role for the staff who work and the students who go to school at Del Valle Elementary, Middle and High School — all of which are located on that portion of Ross Road.
'So you can just imagine the issues that they have during school, drop off and pick up. And there's kids that want other ways to get to school, to safely walk and bike. And this project will ease, will make it easier for drivers, as well as kids walking and biking to school,' Martin said.
A heads up for those who utilize Ross Road to get to and from school, construction will take place during the next two school years.
'We will be sending updates as far as the district is concerned keeping our community apprised of what is happening, so that they are aware of any changes that occur, so that they are prepared for morning drop off and afternoon pickup,' Gutierrez said.
Funding for this $30 million dollar project comes from the 2020 Mobility Bond, and it will take about two years to complete.
In fall 2022 the city made some improvements for safer options for pedestrians while planning for this bigger project was finalized.
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