Crockett approves resolution to apply for TxDOT transportation alternatives funding for downtown plan and sidewalks

The Crockett City Council approved a resolution supporting the city's application to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Transportation Alternatives (TA) program.

City staff told council TxDOT has again opened a call for TA projects. Staff recommended applying to fund a downtown master plan and two major sidewalk projects: sidewalks on Bowie from the square to the loop, and sidewalks on Austin from South Fourth Street out to the school. Both projects have preliminary engineering and were described by staff as roughly in the $1 million range; staff said costs would rise if they must include an overhead or underpass to cross active railroad tracks.

Staff also explained the TA scoring left Crockett with a required 20% local match this round because the city did not receive certain credit points (notably for unemployment metrics). TxDOT officials have indicated a downtown master plan in place increases the likelihood of future TxDOT investment in construction staging for downtown streets; staff recommended applying to secure up to 80% of the master plan cost through TA.

Council voted in favor of the resolution supporting the application. The motion passed after discussion about the city's ability to meet a potential 20% match and how a downtown master plan could leverage additional TxDOT construction funds.

Why it matters: If awarded, TA funds would cover a substantial portion of consultant and construction costs for pedestrian, crossing and traffic-calming improvements in downtown Crockett. The city will need to consider the local match and possible extra engineering costs for any required railroad crossing improvements.

Next steps: Staff will prepare and submit the TA application, including project scopes and cost estimates; if awarded, council will review contract and match funding before construction contracts are issued.