The Save Our Springs Alliance has initiated legal action against the Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority (CTRMA) over the proposed expansion of MoPac South. The environmental group argues that CTRMA is withholding crucial data needed to assess the impact of the highway extension on local ecosystems, including Barton Springs and Barton Creek.
According to the alliance, the expansion poses significant risks to air and water quality, as well as to endangered species such as the Barton Springs and Austin Blind Salamanders. The group claims that CTRMA is refusing to release important environmental and traffic modeling data under a "deliberative process privilege," which they argue contradicts Texas case law.
"This is about accountability," said Bunch from Save Our Springs Alliance. "The public has a right to know the basis for a massive, proposed toll road expansion located directly on top of multiple and highly vulnerable public trust resources."
The alliance urges residents to stay informed and consider supporting their efforts against the MoPac South expansion through donations at KeepMopacLocal.org. Additionally, they encourage public participation in commenting on the new 2050 Regional Transportation Plan by April 15, 2025.
The plan proposes a 26% increase in regional road capacity without addressing environmental mitigation, which could affect air and water quality. Proposed expansions include MoPac South, RM 1826, and RM 620, based on outdated data not reflecting current telecommuting trends.
Residents are also encouraged to oppose a wastewater permit sought by an Austin developer for a project near Barton Creek Habitat Preserve. The permit would allow irrigation with treated sewage near sensitive ecological areas.
Public meetings and opportunities for comments are scheduled throughout April, with details available on Save Our Springs' website.
Information from this article can be found here.