We're keenly aware of the high level of patience and understanding we ask of drivers along FM 1560 (Hausman Road) and other surrounding construction zones in the Helotes area, such as SH 16 (Bandera Road) and Loop 1604.
We want to highlight one particular area of concern that local residents will be facing -- the right- turn lane closure from Hausman to Bandera Road (SH 16), pictured below. We want you to know your feedback is very important to us as we asses how to best mitigate the length of this closure and traffic congestion.
The utility additions and adjustments under this portion of the roadway unfortunately make it are necessary for the improvement of our highway infrastructure. In an effort to make this closure as painless as possible for the traveling public, our project managers along with the contractor are re-evaluating the proposed methods of construction for these essential improvements. Unfortunately, this area has limited access points preventing us from establishing detours.
We have already identified potential elements that can be redesigned to accelerate construction. We plan to bore the proposed gas line crossing Hausman at this intersection instead of installing by open trench methods which would mean tearing through the roadway.
We have taken numerous measures to notify the public of this closure, such as installing portable electronic signs already in place for two weeks. We are also placing extra message boards along entrances from Loop 1604. We have posted about it online here through our blog, as well as through our social media channels. Additionally, we have teamed up with partner agencies such as the City of Helotes and we have also conducted interviews with the media as another way of getting the word out.
This closure is scheduled to start Monday, February 25 and it's projected to last approximately a month. Why that long? The contractor will install a 125-foot gas main crossing under Hausman required just inside of the existing pavement edge. There is also 150 feet of sanitary sewer installed directly under the right-turn lane requiring the construction of four supplemental manholes. Lastly, there's the construction of the drainage structure extending across Hausman.
Bottom line, our options are limited but we're doing our best to try to work through as quickly as possible and we'll continue to explore potential alternatives that could lessen the inconvenience that drivers surely will feel being stuck in traffic. Thank you as always for your steadfast patience and understanding! There is light at the end of the tunnel -- once it's finished, this project will double the number of current lanes, establish raised medians and bring new sidewalks and bike lanes.