Corridor Aesthetics

Learn more about landscaping and aesthetics improvements along the corridor

A critical part of the 183 South Project is bringing aesthetic enhancements to the Corridor. The project development team incorporated a comprehensive approach to design known as Context Sensitive Solutions (CSS). The project development team’s intent by using this approach is to create a safe, efficient and environmentally responsible transportation corridor that is appropriate for its setting and speaks to the needs and values of the surrounding community.

CSS Vision

As part of the environmental study phase, the Mobility Authority and the Texas Department of Transportation conducted a 16-month Context Sensitive Solutions (CSS) planning and public input process that resulted in the design aspects of the 183 South Project that is being constructed. This approach gave the community an opportunity to influence the roadway design so that it reflects their cultural and historic values and aesthetic preferences.

• Click here to download and view the CSS Project Illustrative Plan for the 183 South Project that will be incorporated into the project.

• Click here to view the virtual drive of the 183 South Project, which reflects how community input is being incorporated into the project. The community was asked to prioritize three concepts to be included in the design of the project. The results of your input are shown below:

1) ENHANCED LANDSCAPE

The community identified enhanced landscape as the primary feature of the CSS design. Special neighborhood specific tree species will be used to provide a unique focal point for neighborhood entrances along the corridor. Enhanced landscape will be installed that will consist of native, drought resistant plants that will reduce water consumption and help to control soil erosion along US 183.

2) COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

Community connections highlights how the roadway can “knit the community together” by focusing on trailheads, roadway crossings, and intersection improvements for pedestrians. This concept includes wayfinding signs, exercise areas near existing trails, as well as enhanced lighting, shade, and seating along the shared use path.

3) REGIONAL IDENTITY

Regional identity emphasizes bridge and wall design to promote a strong identity along the corridor. This concept includes the use of unique and attractive design elements for various structures like bridges and retaining walls.

Large Oak Trees

Through community outreach and throughout the CSS Process, we learned that protection of large oak trees within the project corridor was important to the community. So the Mobility Authority has incentivized the project team to protect and preserve the large live oak trees located within the project limits, just south of Montopolis Drive near Callahan’s General Store. To help accomplish this, the Mobility Authority invited tree preservation groups and representatives from the City of Austin, the Texas Department of Transportation, and additional stakeholders groups to outline a comprehensive set of Best Management Practices (BMPs), which describe how the large oak trees near Montopolis Drive are to be protected before and during construction.

In addition, the project team worked with the community to identify the large oak trees that will be nurtured and protected during construction to minimize the risk of loss. The Mobility Authority has also partnered with Tree Folks to promote maintenance and expansion of the urban tree canopy in Austin. The Project includes the planting of hundreds of new trees along the corridor and the installation of native landscaping at key locations to help improve the visual appeal of the corridor.