PRESENTER: Presenter
Scott McClelland, Assistant Transportation & Construction Services Director
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SUBJECT: Title
Public hearing, discussion, and possible action to approve an expenditure of up to $1,400,000 for final design of AAMPO Gruene Multimodal Improvements, pursuant to 505.152 of the Texas Local Government Code.
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DEPARTMENT: Transportation & Construction Services
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COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: 4
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
The Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (AAMPO) Gruene Multimodal Improvements project will address pedestrian and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) improvements in the Gruene Historic District and surrounding area to enhance safety and connectivity. The project includes:
- Shared-use paths on Gruene Road and Hunter Road
- Sidewalks along key corridors
- Intersection improvements at Gruene Road and Rock Road
- Bike lane, landscaping, and other enhancements in key areas
Section 505.152 of the Texas Local Government Code permits the New Braunfels Economic Development Corporation (NBEDC) to invest in expenditures related to open space improvements to roads and streets. The NBEDC has previously supported project expenditures for pedestrian improvements, including those recently completed on Common Street and Union Avenue.
This funding request will address extensive stakeholder outreach, Gruene area specialized design and aesthetic improvements, final design, required state coordination, and bidding phases of the project. The final design request is $1,400,000. If approved, the New Braunfels City Council will consider action in July 2026.
AAMPO has pledged $5,568,740 toward 80% of the construction costs, with the remaining 20% to be matched in the future.
The tentative project schedule includes:
- Final Design Contract Awarded: Summer 2026
- Construction Let Date: 2031, with potential for acceleration
- Secure Funding for 20% Construction Match: In alignment with Construction Let Date
ISSUE:
Continue ongoing enhancements of pedestrian infrastructure throughout the City.
STRATEGIC PLAN REFERENCE:
☐Economic Mobility ☒Enhanced Connectivity ☒Community Identity
☐Organizational Excellence ☒Community Well-Being ☐N/A
FISCAL IMPACT:
The NBEDC has an appropriate fund balance to approve this expenditure.
Recommendation
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of this project expenditure to fund the final design of the AAMPO Gruene Multimodal Improvements project.