Austinites disgruntled in SW neighborhood over incomplete traffic light

A dangerous intersection in Austin’s southwest neighborhood remains without a functioning traffic light, causing concerns among residents.

Austin, Texas

Residents of the Lantana Hills neighborhood in Austin are expressing frustration over a local intersection that, despite having had its traffic lights installed over a year ago, remains inoperational. This has been cause for concern in the community, as residents believe the intersection to be particularly dangerous without traffic signals.

The Delayed Traffic Signal Development

Kristen Jacobs, a resident of the neighborhood, is one of many who are “fed up” with the delay. Voicing her frustrations, she stated, “This should have never taken 13 months. Or 12 months and it’s going to go on for 13 months or 14 months ultimately.” The city of Austin had approved the signals for readiness back in April 2023, according to its database. The prolonged delay in activation has left many residents questioning the city’s reasons. “The latest excuse from the city is that the contractor does not have enough staff to complete the project,” Jacobs explained.

Never-Ending Delays and Empty Promises

In a correspondence with the city, Jacobs was informed that the signals at the intersection would be “activated and operational” by May-end. However, a new email reply from the city towards another resident conveyed that due to “staffing shortages”, the contracted company had not actively pursued the task’s completion. The city also stated that they would “review” all options to finish the project, which includes another intersection at William Cannon Drive and Vega Avenue.

The Impact on Safety

The unsettling reality is that accidents continue to happen at this intersection, according to Jacobs. “There have been multiple accidents,” she warned. Another resident, Bert Greene, expressed urgent concern. “An intersection like this, where accidents are happening every day, it’s got to be made a priority,” he said. He himself has witnessed several collisions while approaching the intersection and even advises his children to take alternative routes.

Demand for Temporary Solutions

Jacobs, along with many of her community members, advocates for a temporary solution if the traffic signals cannot be completed soon. The residents’ mounting frustration has seeded a pressing need for the city to expedite their reconsideration of plans and to provide a concrete date for project completion.