Mid City Times

The East Berry Corridor study, which stretches from IH-35W to Lake Arlington, is on track for potential adoption by the City Council. This initiative aims to redesign East Berry Street using Complete Streets standards to improve safety and comfort for residents and commuters. The study highlights the strategic importance of these improvements as they align with the 2022 Bond East Berry Street Corridor Improvements Project, potentially enhancing the city's ability to secure grants and funding.

A significant development is the inclusion of East Berry Street, from Cobb Park Drive to US-287, in the consideration for the 2026 bond program. As part of the preparation, Kimley-Horn and Associates Inc. conducted a comprehensive engagement strategy from January 2023 to August 2024. This involved public consultations to gather feedback on design preferences and economic priorities for the corridor.

During the study, four rounds of open houses were held alongside focus groups and surveys aimed at engaging the community. The consultant's recommendations include the installation of fiber optics and cooling pavement, with nine strategic sites identified for economic development.

Highlighting the project's significance, it received the Texas American Planning Association Gold award for transportation plans at the 2024 Texas Chapter conference. The final proposal will be submitted for potential council adoption in April or May 2025. If accepted, subsequent steps involve adopting a new form-based code and amending zoning and the Master Thoroughfare Plan to align with the proposed changes. This process lays the groundwork for transforming the plan into actionable projects that meet community needs.

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