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Haslet Parkway grade-separation could be eligible for state off‑system funds; city waiting on application rules
Summary
Council heard an update that Senate Bill 1555 authorizes state off‑system grade‑separation funding; Haslet officials expect application rules from the Texas Transportation Commission on or after Aug. 1 and plan to apply.
Council members heard an update on the Haslet Parkway project and the possibility of state funds for a grade-separated crossing over railroad tracks after passage of Senate Bill 1555.
Why it matters: Haslet Parkway is a regional east–west roadway that will carry not only Haslet residents but substantial traffic from neighboring Fort Worth and county areas. Grade separation over railroad tracks would remove daily delays and support regional mobility; the project has been under TxDOT oversight and was paused previously.
Details presented: Mayor Halsey told council that TxDOT paused construction several years into the Haslet Parkway project; concrete has been poured to “Station 69” but the roadway is not completed to the end of the planned alignment. The mayor said signals at Intermodal and Westport Parkway are in place and are being connected to power.
State funding opportunity: Council was told the 89th Texas Legislature passed Senate Bill 1555 (referred to as “senate bill 15 55” in the staff presentation), authorizing approximately $350 million for grade-separation projects on off‑system roads (non‑state roadways). Because Haslet Parkway is a city-owned “off‑system” roadway, it could be eligible. The Transportation Commission is drafting application rules and the city expects application materials “on or shortly after Aug. 1.” Mayor Halsey said the commission’s rules and the application timing will determine the next steps.
Council discussion: Councilmembers emphasized the project’s regional importance and urged staff and officials to press for the earliest possible consideration. One councilmember urged expediency, noting the traffic implications when a new regional high school opens and daily school-bus and commuter trips will increase over the crossing. Mayor Halsey said Haslet staff are coordinating with regional and state partners and that the city appears well positioned to apply.
Ending: The council did not take a formal action at the meeting but directed staff to monitor the Transportation Commission’s rulemaking and prepare to apply once the application window opens.
