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Redirect CAMPO Funds to Smarter Alternatives

The Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO) is the regional body that directs how our limited federal and state dollars are used on local transportation projects. It does this by approving a Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) prioritizing projects submitted by local authorities.

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has gobbled up nearly all of the region's available funding (approx. $4 billion) for the proposed expansion of I-35 through Central Austin. This proposed expansion ignores regional air quality concerns, fails to properly treat stormwater being directed into the Colorado River, and will make traffic worse through induced demand (Wider Won't Work!).

As you may be aware, the Save Our Springs Alliance has filed a federal lawsuit against the proposed I-35 expansion, in partnership with Rethink35, Austin Justice Coalition, PODER, and several other environmental and neighborhood-based groups representing residents who will be impacted by the proposed expansion.

We are trying to reset the environmental review of the proposed highway expansion and provide space for our local leaders to force consideration of a better alternative that will help heal the divide and address the long-term environmental health risks caused by I-35.

Please join us by asking the CAMPO Board to redirect the region's transportation dollars to projects that will help resolve traffic safety concerns and improve mobility (i.e., not just road expansion).

Please also consider making a Donation to Support the I-35 Lawsuit.

Fill in this form to write into the entire CAMPO Policy Board, or send your comments directly to comments@campotexas.org .

Website for information on the TIP.

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CAMPO Board Members and Campo Comments

Subject: Remove I-35 from the CAMPO TIP

Message:

This message is to all Members of the Transportation Policy Board. I am writing to express my concerns regarding the funding allocations for the I-35 Capitol Express project within the 2025-2028 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). While infrastructure development is crucial for our region’s growth, it is equally important to consider the long-term impacts on our environment and public health. To face the urgent challenges posed by climate change, transportation projects must align with sustainable practices. The I-35 Capitol Express project, as currently planned, increases regional greenhouse gas emissions, contributes to the spread of harmful air toxins, and directs insufficiently treated highway runoff into the Colorado River. Increased vehicular traffic and construction activities may lead to higher levels of particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic compounds. These pollutants contribute to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular issues, and other health problems. We must safeguard the health of our residents by considering alternative solutions that minimize these risks. Recommendations: 1.	Reevaluate Funding: I urge the Transportation Policy Board to reevaluate the funding allocations for the I-35 Capitol Express project. Consider redirecting resources toward transit-oriented solutions, active transportation infrastructure, and innovative mobility options that reduce reliance on single-occupancy vehicles. 2.	Prioritize Sustainability: Prioritize projects that incorporate green infrastructure, electric vehicle charging stations, and pedestrian-friendly designs. Let’s invest in a transportation system that supports a healthier environment and enhances quality of life. 3.	Reevaluate Alternatives to I-35 Expansion: Engage with local communities, environmental organizations, and health experts to assess the project’s impact comprehensively and reconsider the alternatives, such as the Rethink35 and Reconnect Austin proposals that had widespread community support. Thank you for your consideration.

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Redirect CAMPO Funds to Smarter Alternatives

Support Austin's Last Shred of Direct Democracy

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