In a quieter pocket of Central Texas—just northwest of Austin—more than 1,800 residents are speaking out against a proposed project that would bring a nearly 27-mile railroad through their communities. The project, proposed by Texas Materials Group, a subsidiary of CRH Americas, would carry large volumes of gravel, sand, and other raw construction materials through Lampasas and Burnet counties. But for many local residents, the benefits of the so-called “rock railroad” don’t outweigh the risks.
What Is the Project?
Texas Materials Group is planning to revive approximately 12.5 miles of an old rail line and build an additional 14.4 miles of new track, forming a 27-mile freight corridor between the BNSF Railway near Lampasas and the Austin Western Railroad near Burnet. The primary goal: to reduce heavy truck traffic by using trains to transport construction aggregates across the region.
Why Are Residents Opposed?
Local homeowners and landowners say they were not consulted before plans were filed with the Surface Transportation Board (STB). A growing number of them are now pushing back, citing a range of concerns:
- Noise and Air Pollution: The introduction of frequent train traffic could disrupt the peace and quiet of this mostly rural area.
- Environmental Disruption: Residents fear the rail line could negatively affect local ecosystems and wildlife habitats.
- Property Value Impact: Some worry that proximity to industrial rail traffic could devalue homes and land.
- Safety and Traffic Concerns: There’s concern about increased risk at crossings and disruption to normal vehicle flow in nearby towns.
“This decision could have significant negative consequences for our lives, our land, and our community,” reads a Change.org petition started by local residents. As of now, over 1,800 signatures have been gathered in opposition.
The Developer’s Response
Texas Materials Group has stated that the project would reduce road congestion by eliminating the need for approximately 700 to 800 trucks per day on local roads. They’ve emphasized that the project is in the public comment phase and that the STB will conduct a thorough environmental review before any decisions are finalized.
“TMG is following the STB’s process to establish the shortline railroad and will be engaging with the local community,” the company said in a statement.
What’s Next?
The STB is currently accepting public input, and local residents are encouraged to share their thoughts. Following the comment period, a more in-depth environmental review will be conducted. At that point, additional feedback will be accepted before any approval or rejection is granted.
Why This Matters for Austin-Area Homeowners
While the proposed railway is located roughly 55 miles northwest of Austin, it highlights broader concerns that homeowners across Central Texas face when it comes to balancing development with quality of life. Infrastructure growth is necessary to support the region’s booming population—but residents are increasingly demanding more transparency, community input, and environmental responsibility.
If you’re a current homeowner or planning to buy land in the Hill Country or outer Austin areas, it’s important to stay informed about proposed projects like these. They can impact everything from property values to daily quality of life.
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