The Texas Transportation Commission today approved more than $25 million worth of bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure projects to be constructed in nonurban areas. Funding for the 33 non-traditional transportation projects was made available through the federal Transportation Alternative Program (TAP).

Included in the approved projects was $492,226.00 for the City of Early to construct approximately one mile of sidewalks and another approximately one-half mile of bicycle lanes. The sidewalks will connect Early school campuses with area neighborhoods, as well as CARR’s new multimodal transportation facility. Bicycle lanes will be constructed on East River Oaks Road from US 84/183, then up Sudderth Drive to the elementary and middle school campuses.

“The Brownwood District is excited that the City of Early was approved for this funding,” said TxDOT Environmental Specialist Andrew Chisholm, who worked with city officials during the program’s application phase. “Early’s project precisely meets the intent of these funds. By providing new sidewalks and bicycle lanes, pedestrians and cyclists, especially school children, will be able to use these alternative modes of transportation safely. Ultimately the quality of life for all Early citizens will be enhanced.”

Earlier this year the Texas Department of Transportation announced a call for TAP projects in small urban and non-urban areas. Using federal TAP funding, the Texas Transportation Commission then authorized funding for 17 small urban projects in September and 33 non-urban projects at today’s meeting.

In accordance with TxDOT’s TAP rules, eligible project activities were limited to bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure projects, and the TAP funding was identified for construction only. It is anticipated that all TxDOT selected 2015 TAP projects will be let for construction within three years.