Study: MoPac South travel times could jump 42% by 2045
The Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority continues to eye possible improvements to MoPac Expressway South amid longer travel times projected along the corridor in the coming years.
AUSTIN (KXAN) -- The Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority continues to eye possible improvements to MoPac Expressway South amid longer travel times projected along the corridor in the coming years.
CTRMA released its MoPac South 2045 traffic forecast update, with estimates suggesting peak travel times could increase between 30% and 42% come 2045. The updated traffic forecast noted living, working and travel patterns have changed since the previous MoPac South 2035 traffic forecast and impacted travel needs.
How could traffic conditions along MoPac South change come 2045?
Among northbound flow rates, the 2045 study found congestion on northbound MoPac at Lady Bird Lake typically sees its peak during the morning commute before remaining consistent throughout the day. When looking at northbound MoPac at U.S. Hwy. 290, the study revealed that segment experiences a gradual morning traffic peak before decreasing throughout the day.
The study also found many commuters over-estimate their travel times given congestion volumes. Those traveling from Slaughter Lane to Enfield Road were found to factor 45 minutes into their morning commute, compared to a roughly 20-minute average travel time.
Looking at southbound flow rates, the study found southbound MoPac traffic near Lady Bird Lake is fairly consistent throughout the day, while southbound traffic flow at U.S. Hwy. 290 peaks during the evening commute between 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Those traveling along southbound MoPac from Enfield Road to Slaughter Lane were found to plan about 25 minutes into their commute, compared to an average time between 15 minutes and 20 minutes.
When evaluating the corridor running from Slaughter Lane to Cesar Chavez Street, CTRMA's 2045 study found travel times will increase between 30% and 42% by 2045 for morning and evening commuters.
Possible solutions to congestion, travel times on MoPac South
Outlined goals for the future work center around minimizing congestion along the corridor -- described in the study as "unreliable travel times" -- as well as enhancing transit and rideshare opportunities along with pedestrian and cyclist mobility.
The build alternatives evaluation noted a possible $9.3 million investment into express lanes, which could increase weekday vehicle miles traveled by 117,000, compared to a "no build" alternative. The study determined express lanes maximized efficiency for all users along the MoPac South corridor compared to high-occupancy vehicle lanes, which the study found helped minimize travel times but benefited fewer users.
Operational configuration changes considered for the roadway include:
- Plan 1A: One alternative lane added with a downtown direct connection
- Plan 1B: One alternative lane without a downtown direct connection
- Plan 2A: Two alternative lanes with a downtown direct connection
- Plan 2B: Two alternative lanes without a downtown direct connection
- Plan 2C: Two alternative lanes with elevated ramps near Barton Skyway
- Plan 3: Elevated ramps moved south near Barton Skyway with collector distributor roads -- or longer, exit-like ramps -- with an at-grade connection across Lady Bird Lake
The study's initial findings suggested the options with two lanes would maximize corridor use.
CTRMA will continue overseeing technical working groups to hone the proposed project's considerations, with a yet-to-be-determined open house to come in the future. The transit organization is also expected to submit a draft environment assessment on the project proposal, and host a related public hearing on it in the future.
The entire 2045 traffic forecast study is available online.