Limited improvements generally add two lanes to SH 183 and require a high-capacity reliever roadway. Extensive 183 improvements of over 6 lanes may not require a reliever road. Peak hour modeling is being done now to measure the traffic's directional differences and the feasibility of using reversible lanes. Tom O'Grady with HNTB next discussed the three basic ramp options for SH 183 shown on handout page 12. Detailed drawings of the three ramp options will be prepared for the March public meetings.
Braided ramps can require even more.
The objective of these options is to obtain citizen input on ramp location and access as they impact land use. HNTB is also looking at the ramping and interchange improvements for Beltline Road at SH 183. Matt Craig with Halff Associates gave a short briefing on implications for constructing a depressed freeway in the area of SH 183 between Beltline Road and Loop 12. A major issue is drainage. The depressed section could require large culverts to drain the area between Story and O'Connor.