Balch Springs is taking significant steps to enhance its transportation infrastructure and ensure compliance with federal requirements. During the recent Economic Development Corporation (EDC) Type A Board meeting on June 16, 2025, the board approved a contract with Kimley Horn and Associates for professional engineering services related to the 2025 Safe Streets for All (SS4A) planning grant application. The contract is capped at $15,000, with the potential to secure $200,000 if the grant is awarded.

This initiative is crucial as it addresses the city's need for an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) transition plan, which is essential for establishing sidewalk connectivity throughout Balch Springs. The absence of such a plan has hindered the city’s eligibility for future transportation funding. The board highlighted that previous grants have already supported improvements, including $800,000 for lighting enhancements on Beltline Road and $1.6 million for an engineering design study for Elam Road.

The development of the ADA transition plan is a key requirement for accessing federal transportation dollars, which will facilitate further improvements to the city’s infrastructure. The board emphasized that this plan is not only a regulatory necessity but also a vital step towards creating safer and more accessible streets for all residents.

As Balch Springs moves forward with these plans, the focus remains on enhancing the community's transportation framework and ensuring that it meets the needs of all citizens. The approval of this contract marks a proactive approach to securing funding and improving the city's infrastructure for the future.