CDC debates FM 407 corridor study: pursue an 8-foot trail or prioritize sidewalks and request cost comparisons

Bill (project lead) reviewed the scope of Haffen Associates' work to analyze potential trail alignments and to develop grant-funding strategies for FM 407 (Justin Road), a corridor identified in the adopted comprehensive plan. The study's purpose is to evaluate active-transportation connections and to provide preferred alignments and grant positioning for a multiuse trail that would connect neighborhoods, schools and commercial areas.

Board members raised several concerns: (1) the difference in grant competitiveness and likely funding for an 8-foot trail versus reconstructing or completing sidewalks; (2) the feasibility and right-of-way constraints for the segment between Highland Forest and Highland Village Road; (3) the effect of student bus eligibility under Texas education/transportation rules on Safe Routes to School grant scoring; and (4) the need for more public engagement.

Directives from the discussion: staff will obtain an opinion-of-probable-cost (OPC) or cost delta for completing sidewalks versus building an 8-foot trail for prioritized segments (notably the section from Highland Forest to Walmart and the railroad-aligned alternative behind the park), provide meeting notes from prior stakeholder meetings, and report what portion of the consultant contract remains and whether additional services would be required to produce the sidewalk-versus-trail cost comparison. The board paused authorizing further consultant work beyond the existing scope until it sees the comparative costs and a recommendation on whether to pursue grant-funded trail construction or local sidewalk projects.