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City Council Meeting Minutes October 7, 2020 Mr. Estes presented the proposed improvements to IH -35 from SH 123 to Posey Road, which include reconstruction of main lanes and frontage roads, add capacity and shift the northbound and southbound I-35 frontage roads, add extended entrance/exit lanes along the I-35 main lanes and frontage roads, reverse entrance/exit ramps, improve the I-35 intersections at Wonder World Drive, McCarty Lane and Centerpoint Road, and improved bicycle and pedestrian paths. Drainage in the area will be improved. Council Member Baker asked about the light project and if it is compatible with the Dark Sky status that City is seeking. Ms. Fraser stated that the high illumination is part of the safety program to make it clearer for drivers. Council Member Baker inquired about the safety components. Ms. Fraser stated they have a number of research documents and will provide to Council. Council Member Baker asked if the current lights are inadequate? Ms. Fraser stated that the new lights meet new current standards. Laurie Moyer, Director of Engineering and CIP, stated that Hwy 123 and SH 80 will use the new lighting as well and this provides a more consistent lighting. Ms. Moyer also stated that LED lighting will be used and this is compatible with Dark Sky iniative. Mayor Pro Tem Mihalkanin inquired about the location of the road underneath the interstate that currently allows for easier access to citizens in Blanco Gardens. He addressed concerns of the removal of this roadway given the construction on River Road and he said that small road along the frontage road is important to the citizens. Ms. Moyer stated the problem is due to improvement of the frontage roads, and to get up to federal highway standards, they have to be raised 6 feet, therefore, that connection cannot be made. Staff is working with TxDOT and a shared use path is being designed to provide a trail for pedestrians and bicyclist. Staff is aware of the concerns during construction, and unfortunately TxDOT must comply with these standards. Ms. Moyer stated that they are working closely with TxDOT as the project begins. Mayor Pro Tem asked staff to share the schematics of the project configuration. Ms. Moyer will provide this to Council. Mayor Hughson asked if we are ready for the additional traffic on Hwy 80 due to the removal of that short cut used by many who live in the nearby neighborhood. Ms. Moyer stated there are capacity improvements that will address this at SH 123 in an effort to limit traffic on Hwy 80. Council Member Derrick asked if there are plans to install traffic lights at SH 123 and Hwy 80? Mr. Estes stated there are future plans for SH 123 but no City of San Marcos Page 4