Willow Creek Road: A Lifeline for Residents and Schools
The grand opening of Willow Creek Road couldn’t have come at a better time. As students prepare to return to school, the improved traffic flow between educational institutions—especially the newly inaugurated Peaster Intermediate School—will provide much-needed relief for residents. Thanks to funding from the 2023 Parker County Transportation Bond Program, parents, teachers and school buses can now enjoy smoother commutes, ensuring timely arrivals and departures.
Addressing Population Growth
As Parker County experiences rapid population growth, its local school systems face challenges. Overcrowded schools and congested roadways have become common. In response, Peaster ISD made a critical decision: adding a new school campus, Peaster Intermediate. However, this expansion was expected to introduce additional traffic to already busy corridors, particularly along FM 920 and Harwell Lake Rd.
Freese and Nichols facilitated collaboration among key stakeholders, including the Texas Department of Transportation, the town of Peaster, Parker County and Peaster ISD, to develop the new roadway and have it ready when the new school opened in August 2024.
“As the ribbon was cut on Willow Creek Road, Parker County celebrated not only a new thoroughfare but also a commitment to safer roads and improved mobility,” said Chris Bosco, Freese and Nichols’ Transportation Practice Leader. “Since the new school year has started, students, parents, and educators can now navigate their daily routes with greater ease.”
A Vital Connection
Willow Creek Road spans three-quarters of a mile from FM 920 to Harwell Lake Rd nine miles northwest of Weatherford, strategically connecting four schools and neighborhoods. The project aims to alleviate residential congestion and enhance accessibility for students, parents and commuters. With the grand opening timed just before the start of the new school year, the impact is expected to be immediate.
Design and Collaboration
Freese and Nichols played a crucial role in the project, providing design services that included essential features such as:
- Intersection Improvements: Well-designed intersections move traffic safely and efficiently across roadway corridors.
- Pavement Markings: Clear and efficient road markings guide traffic safely along the route.
- Safety Improvements: Measures were implemented to enhance safety for all road users.
- Traffic Barrier Metal Beam Guard Fence: This barrier provides essential protection for motorists.
The 2023 Parker County Transportation Bond Program was approved on November 7, 2023. This $130 million bond program will cover 32 transportation projects to meet the county’s community safety and mobility needs.
The program involves essential partnerships with the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to enhance IH-20, FM 730, FM 1187, and several intersection projects. Additionally, it includes improvements to both City and County roadways to enhance safety and mobility throughout the County.