The city of Round Rock embarked on a significant infrastructure project in December 2024, aiming to enhance connectivity and capacity within its road network. This new extension will link Red Bud Lane to County Road 110, incorporating modern facilities for pedestrians and cyclists. Scheduled for completion by early 2026, the project includes a four-lane roadway with a central median and bridges over McNutt Creek. Additionally, it features pathways that will seamlessly integrate with existing sidewalks, providing residents with safer and more convenient travel options.
To ensure community involvement, public meetings were held in winter and summer 2021, gathering valuable input from local residents. These insights have shaped the design and implementation of the project, ensuring it meets the needs of the community. Upon completion, this extension will not only improve traffic flow but also offer dedicated walking and biking paths, enhancing the quality of life for nearby neighborhoods.
The Old Settlers Boulevard Extension represents a strategic move by the city to address growing transportation demands. By connecting Red Bud Lane to County Road 110, the project introduces a new four-lane thoroughfare complete with a central median and twin bridges over McNutt Creek. This development is expected to alleviate congestion and provide better connectivity within the city’s road network. The addition of these lanes and bridges will significantly boost traffic capacity, facilitating smoother vehicular movement.
The project has been meticulously planned to cater to both current and future transportation needs. Once completed, the extension will serve as a crucial link in the city’s overall transport system. It will provide direct access to various parts of the city, reducing travel time and improving efficiency. The inclusion of a traffic signal and crosswalk at the intersection of Old Settlers Boulevard and CR 110 will further enhance safety and ease of navigation for all road users. Moreover, the bridges over McNutt Creek are designed to withstand environmental challenges, ensuring long-term durability and reliability.
In addition to enhancing vehicular traffic, the Old Settlers Boulevard Extension places a strong emphasis on pedestrian and cyclist safety. The project incorporates a 10-foot shared use path and a 6-foot sidewalk on either side of the roadway. These facilities will connect to existing sidewalks in the Siena subdivision and along Old Settlers Boulevard to the west, as well as along Red Bud Lane. This integration ensures continuous and safe pathways for walkers and cyclists throughout the area.
Upon completion, local neighborhoods will benefit from dedicated walking and biking paths that link directly to Old Settlers Park. This not only promotes healthier lifestyles but also fosters a sense of community by encouraging outdoor activities. The design of these pathways takes into account the needs of all age groups, ensuring accessibility for everyone. Furthermore, the project addresses the growing demand for sustainable transportation options, aligning with the city’s broader goals of promoting environmentally friendly practices. Public feedback gathered during the planning phase has played a crucial role in shaping these amenities, ensuring they meet the specific requirements of the community.
The Bozeman School District is set to launch a new construction academy that will offer hands-on learning opportunities for students at Bozeman High School and Gallatin High School. This initiative aims to provide practical skills training in various trades, addressing the growing demand for skilled labor. The program will start with building sheds on school grounds, but organizers have ambitious plans to expand into other areas, including affordable housing projects. Despite budget constraints, local industry partners have shown interest in supporting the venture, ensuring its sustainability.
This innovative construction academy offers students an alternative to traditional classroom learning by providing them with practical, hands-on experience in various trades. For many students, this approach aligns better with their career aspirations and learning styles. Participants will earn dual credits, giving them a head start on college education while gaining valuable skills applicable to real-world jobs. The curriculum will cover foundational skills in the classroom before transitioning to outdoor projects where students can apply what they've learned.
One of the key features of this program is its focus on practical application. Students will begin by constructing sheds on designated gravel pads at each high school. This hands-on experience not only teaches essential construction techniques but also instills a sense of accomplishment as they see their work come to life. By engaging in these projects, students like Jaxson Huckert, who has already expressed interest in plumbing, can refine their skills and gain confidence in pursuing their chosen trade. The program's structure ensures that students receive both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, preparing them for future careers in the trades.
While the construction academy presents exciting opportunities, it also faces challenges, particularly in terms of funding. The Bozeman School District has been navigating financial difficulties, making external support crucial for the program's success. Fortunately, several local businesses have stepped up to contribute resources, helping to kickstart the initiative. The plan is for the program to become self-sustaining over time through the sale of the sheds built by students. This model ensures that the program can continue to grow and benefit more students without relying solely on district funds.
Looking ahead, the organizers of the construction academy have ambitious goals. They envision expanding the program to include additional trades and eventually building homes. One potential project involves constructing affordable housing for teachers in Bozeman, addressing the community's broader needs. These initiatives demonstrate the program's commitment to not only educating students but also contributing positively to the local community. As the construction academy evolves, it promises to open new pathways for young people interested in skilled trades, fostering both personal and communal growth.