KILLEEN, Texas — A major roadway that thousands of Central Texans rely on every day is on track for a significant upgrade, and the public will soon have the chance to weigh in. The City of Killeen and TxDOT, working in partnership with the City of Harker Heights, Bell County, and the Killeen‑Temple Metropolitan Planning Organization (KTMPO), will host a public hearing to share details about proposed improvements to Chaparral Road, stretching from SH 195 to Stillhouse Lake Road (FM 3481).
The project represents one of the region’s most ambitious transportation enhancements in recent years—aimed at improving safety, easing congestion, and preparing the corridor for future growth. Residents, business owners, and commuters who depend on Chaparral Road will have the opportunity to learn more, ask questions, and submit comments directly to project team members.
A Roadway Built for the Future
The proposed improvements would reshape Chaparral Road into a modern, multi‑modal corridor. Plans call for widening and realigning the current two‑lane undivided roadway into a four‑lane divided section with a raised median in two major stretches: from Featherline Road to East Trimmier Road, and from Rosewood Drive to Stillhouse Lake Road (FM 3481).
Safety and traffic flow are central to the redesign. The project incorporates intersection improvements at 11 locations, which may include new traffic signals or roundabouts—tools increasingly used to reduce severe crashes and keep vehicles moving efficiently.
The corridor will also become more accessible for pedestrians and bicyclists. Designs include a 6‑foot sidewalk on the south side of the roadway, a 12‑foot shared‑use path on the north side, and lighting along both sides to improve visibility and safety during evening hours.
Two Ways to Participate: In‑Person or Online
To ensure broad community access, the public hearing will be offered in both in‑person and virtual formats, each providing identical information and opportunities for comment.
The in‑person open house will take place:
Thursday, Aug. 13 5 – 7 p.m. Chaparral High School 4400 Chaparral Rd, Killeen, TX 76542
Attendees may come and go at any time, speak with project representatives, and review maps, renderings, and timelines.
For those unable to attend in person, a virtual hearing will be available beginning at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 13. The online presentation—hosted at the TxDOT hearings and meetings page—will be pre‑recorded, allowing viewers to watch at their convenience. Public comments may be submitted through Friday, August 28, 2026, giving residents ample time to review materials and share feedback.
How to Submit Comments
Public input is a critical part of the planning process. Comments must be received by August 28, 2026 to be included in the official hearing record. Submissions may be made by:
- Phone: 512‑354‑1499
- Mail: Chaparral Road Improvements, c/o CD&P, PO Box 5459, Austin, TX 78763
- Email: chaparralroadproject@lja.com
General questions may be directed to the Chaparral Road Improvements Project Team at 254‑616‑3176 or dwetzel@killeentexas.gov.
A Growing Community, A Growing Need
With more than 160,000 residents and continued growth driven by Fort Cavazos, regional commerce, and expanding neighborhoods, Killeen’s transportation network faces increasing demands. Chaparral Road serves as a vital connector for families, schools, and businesses. The proposed improvements aim to enhance safety, reduce congestion, and support long‑term mobility across the region.
As the project moves forward, community voices will help shape the final design. The upcoming hearing marks a key step in ensuring that Chaparral Road’s future reflects the needs and priorities of the people who use it every day.
For updates and additional information, visit killeentexas.gov.
