The New Hope Drive extension, located between Ronald Reagan Boulevard and Sam Bass Road, officially opened November 20 following a ribbon cutting ceremony by Cedar Park and Williamson County elected officials. The project aims to improve transportation mobility, enhance safety, and open up opportunities for further regional economic development.
“The completion of the New Hope Drive Extension project underscores the City’s commitment to improve regional mobility, enhance safety, and relieve traffic congestion. Projects like this do not happen without collaboration and the City expresses appreciation to Williamson County for our strong partnership. This project ensures safer thoroughfares for motorists and supports future growth and economic development opportunities,” said Mayor Jim Penniman-Morin.
The $29.5 million project was financed by the 2022 Bond Program funds, which was approved by Cedar Park voters, as well as the Williamson County 2019 voter-approved Road Bond.
“Residents have consistently told us that transportation and safety are very important issues for them,” said Williamson County Precinct 3 Commissioner Valerie Covey. “They have voted in favor of road bonds for construction projects such as this one since our program started 2000. It is through the Long-Range Transportation Plan that we are able to plan for these improvements as growth occurs in the area. This roadway will give motorist another east-west alternative to the growing congestion on RM 1431”.
Precinct 2 Commissioner Cynthia Long called said the hard work has finally paid off.
“Opening New Hope Road today was the culmination of years of tenacious teamwork between the City of Cedar Park, Williamson County, and CAMPO to obtain the funding to construct this project,” Long said.
The RM1431 corridor in Cedar Park experiences nearly 50,000 vehicles per day east of Parmer Lane. County officials are hopeful the New Hope Drive extension will help alleviate some of that congestion, as well as support future development in undeveloped areas of Cedar Park by providing wider access and opportunities.
The 1.8-mile, four-lane divided arterial includes 110 feet of right-of-way, raised medians, traffic signals, turning movement lanes at major intersections, sidewalks, dedicated bike lanes, and LED street lighting.
Additionally, the project features a 16-inch water transmission main extension along its length to provide water service to undeveloped areas. The extension will also connect to the north end of Toro Grande Boulevard, creating a north-south connection from New Hope Drive to Whitestone Boulevard.
