Federal support is on the way for one of Belton’s most important transportation corridors. During a visit to the city today, U.S. Rep. John R. Carter announced that he has secured $9.68 million in federal funding to fully fund the widening and reconstruction of Connell Street, a project long identified as essential for safety and mobility in the fast‑growing community.

Connell Street serves as a major north–south route for residents, local businesses, and emergency responders. The upcoming project will expand the roadway from two lanes to four and rebuild the entire corridor with modern infrastructure. Plans include upgraded drainage, new sidewalks, and a shared‑use path designed to improve access for pedestrians and bicyclists.

Carter said the investment is aimed at staying ahead of growth and preventing small issues from becoming larger problems. “The goal is to fix problems before they get worse and make sure Connell Street keeps up with the people who rely on it every day,” he said.

City officials emphasized that Belton positioned itself early by completing planning and design work so the project would be ready once funding became available. Construction is expected to begin in 2027 or 2028, pending final coordination with regional partners.

Mayor David K. Leigh thanked Carter for his continued support of local infrastructure priorities, noting his involvement in water system upgrades and an ongoing bridge replacement. City Manager Sam Listi added that the Connell Street project has been years in the making, with collaboration from Bell County, the Killeen‑Temple Metropolitan Planning Organization, and the Texas Department of Transportation to secure multiple rounds of funding and ensure the project is “shovel ready.”

State Rep. Hillary Hickland praised the partnership across federal, state, and local levels, saying it’s encouraging to see government working together to deliver improvements that directly benefit residents.

Once complete, officials say the widened corridor will significantly improve safety, ease congestion, and strengthen connectivity in one of Belton’s fastest‑growing areas—an investment designed to support the city’s future as much as its present.