A proposed 15-mile extension of the 290 Toll would carry the route from SH 130 east to SH 95 in Elgin, offering another option for drivers traveling through Manor and Elgin. The Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority is gathering public feedback before deciding how to proceed. At a public meeting in Manor on Wednesday, Sept. 30, CTRMA engineering director Mike Sexton said the agency was presenting preliminary possibilities and wanted residents’ input before finalizing the environmental review process. The existing 290 Toll ends at SH 130. The proposal comes as residents describe worsening rush-hour congestion on U.S. 290. Manor resident Frances Meyer said rapid growth in the area has brought more traffic and crashes, calling congestion a serious problem for residents. CTRMA estimates Manor’s population could grow 60% by 2050. The authority also reported more than 2,300 crashes on U.S. 290 between SH 130 and SH 95 in 2025, including 19 fatal crashes. Some residents said they want growth plans to account for impacts on nearby communities and construction logistics. “I’m all about growth but I think there is not enough planning in this area for growth,” said Manor resident Patty Ramirez, who also raised questions about where construction equipment would be staged. The proposal remains in an early planning phase. CTRMA expects an environmental study to take about two years, followed by roughly two years of design. Acquiring right of way and relocating utilities could add another one to two years. Sexton said it could be four or five years before construction begins if the project moves forward; the authority would also need to determine which sections could be built and in what order. A second public meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 1, from 4 to 7 p.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Manor. Residents can also submit comments through the project website. No toll rates or final construction plans have been announced.