Groundbreaking Set For SH 71 at Colorado Project

AUSTIN, TX — Officials Tuesday will break ground on construction for the SH 71 at Colorado project — ambitious $50.4 million work that includes building nine independent bridges, a new westbound exit ramp across the river and a new eastbound entrance ramp at the Union Pacific Railroad.

The project is designed to enhance safety and improve mobility for all modes of transportation along SH 71, officials said in a press advisory. The project is expected to be complete by winter 2022, weather permitting.

Immediately following the groundbreaking ceremony, a Be Safe. Drive Smart. event is taking place at the Bastrop Buc-ee’s location, featuring a new interactive exhibit to promote all aspects of safe and smart driving this summer.

The event is scheduled for Tuesday, July 30, at 10 a.m. at the northwest bank of the river, below the SH 71 main lane bridge, in Bastrop.