Council approves resolution to seek TxDOT funding for sidewalks along North Wharton (FM 653)

The El Campo City Council voted to adopt a resolution supporting an application to the Texas Department of Transportation’s Transportation Alternatives Program to build sidewalks, curb ramps and pedestrian crosswalks along North Wharton Street (FM 653).

City staff told council the resolution (R2025-26) is required by TxDOT to apply for the funding. The staff report says the city would commit up to 20% local funds for construction costs and acknowledges project funding would be awarded on a reimbursement basis; the council heard staff estimate that 20% of the total project cost is about $4.9 million.

When a council member asked whether the city would ultimately have to pay the local match, a staff member named Kevin said the city is eligible for “transportation credits, which will take the entirety of that. So 0 cost.” Kevin also described the sidewalk extents: “It's actually both side all the way to Strand, and then that's right across from Friendship Park, and then on the East side all the way down to Jackson Street.” He added that TxDOT’s larger road plan associated with the area includes removing ditches and installing curb and gutter and that the road would be reconfigured to three lanes under the broader plan.

Staff said the application must be submitted by June 20 and that award notifications typically arrive in August to early September. The presentation noted that, if awarded, TxDOT would take over the project and the sidewalks would be incorporated into the agency’s overall roadway plan.

A council member moved to approve the resolution; another councilmember seconded the motion, and the mayor called the vote. The motion carried.