Three big SH 71 projects are moving forward in Bastrop County. Work is underway at Tucker Hill Lane, Pope Bend Road is close to bidding, and FM 1209 is in final design, Community Impact reported on Oct. 21, 2026. All three add overpasses, frontage roads and bike and pedestrian improvements.
What is happening at Tucker Hill Lane?
This is the project you can see today. TxDOT is building an overpass at Tucker Hill Lane with one-way frontage roads and bike and pedestrian improvements.
- Cost: $58.5 million
- Progress: On July 21, crews began setting bridge beams on westbound SH 71 at Dry Creek. They are also building culverts at the intersection and working on the westbound frontage road.
- Timeline: November 2025 through fall 2028
When does Pope Bend Road start?
- Cost: $61.65 million
- Next step: Bids open Jan. 6, 2027
- Completion: To be determined
What about FM 1209?
FM 1209 is the largest of the three. TxDOT plans an overpass at FM 1209, new frontage roads and expanded bike and pedestrian space.
- Cost: $102 million, paid with TxDOT Category 12 Strategic Priority funds
- Progress: Updated preliminary plans went to contractors for review on Sept. 30. The project is in final design, right-of-way purchase and utility moves.
- Bids: Expected in 2030
Why it matters
| Project | Cost | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Tucker Hill Lane | $58.5 million | Under construction, through fall 2028 |
| Pope Bend Road | $61.65 million | Bids open Jan. 6, 2027 |
| FM 1209 | $102 million | Final design, bids expected 2030 |
SH 71 is the main route between Bastrop and Austin, so it shapes most commutes here. Overpasses let through traffic keep moving while local drivers use the frontage roads. During construction, give yourself a few extra minutes near Tucker Hill Lane, and check TxDOT’s Austin District for lane closures.
If you are comparing commutes, our Moving to Bastrop guide covers drive times to Austin and the airport, and the neighborhood guide shows where each area sits along SH 71.
Frequently asked questions
- When will the Tucker Hill Lane overpass on SH 71 be finished?
- TxDOT's timeline runs from November 2025 through fall 2028, according to Community Impact.
- When does construction start at Pope Bend Road on SH 71?
- Bids are set to open Jan. 6, 2027. The $61.65 million project's completion date has not been set.
- Is TxDOT building an overpass at FM 1209 and SH 71?
- Yes. The $102 million project is in final design, right-of-way and utility work, and bids are expected in 2030.
- How much are the SH 71 projects in Bastrop County?
- Tucker Hill Lane is $58.5 million, Pope Bend Road is $61.65 million and FM 1209 is $102 million.
Sources
Thinking about moving to Bastrop? Start with our moving guide and neighborhood guide, or send us a question.
