City Council will hold a workshop Monday, February 13 at 4:30 PM in Council chambers to discuss two options for addressing the future transportation needs of New Braunfels and the County.

Partly in response to the outcry from those of us interested in protecting the Hill Country environment, including the Guadalupe River (particularly at 2nd crossing), the Planning Department worked with transportation experts to develop a plan that did not destroy natural habitats, the river, and the country-side.

The “Parkway Plan” resulted as an alternative to the long-debated New Braunfels Outer Loop. PLEASE consider the following facts, most of which are from study of planning documents and maps.

Parkway System

  • Utilizes 75% existing roadways
  • 200’ or less right-of-way
  • Facilitates access within city and county
  • No bridge over Guadalupe River (2nd crossing)
  • Less obtrusive, less pollution
  • Serious attention to flooding issues
  • Avoids Edward’s Aquifer Recharge Zone
  • 45 mile per hour speed limit

Outer Loop

  • 100% new road
  • Extends over 40 miles, encircling city
  • Wider than I-35; 400-800’ right-of-way
  • 6-lane highway bridge over Guadalupe River
  • Increased noise and air pollution
  • Vulnerable to flooding
  • 40% over Edward’s Aquifer Recharge Zone
  • 70 (or +) mile per hour speed limit
In deciding in favor of the Parkway Plan versus the Loop, I asked myself these questions:
  • Who would benefit…developers, realtors, road builders, or those of us who value the serenity of the Hill Country?
  • What purpose is served by each…moving big trucks around New Braunfels or facilitating easier access to residents?
  • Is it costlier to build new roads with all new utilities or to expand existing roadways, adding small connectors to major destinations?
  • Do we need to be concerned about the quality and quantity of our drinking water…will more impervious cover (concrete) over the Aquifer have an impact?
  • Do I want a 410/1604 mega highway with huge interchanges looming over previously beautiful scenery and homes?
  • Despite the fact that properties will be effected by either plan, which has the biggest impact on the most people, a road that requires designation of up to 800’ or one that requires only 200’ of right-of-way?
  • How will my property value be affected by the Loop and/or the Parkway?

Ask your own questions. Make your own decision about which plan is right for you and your future. Get educated. Be outspoken through emails to the mayor and council members, letters to the editor, and talks with neighbors. It’s now or never.