LEANDER, Texas (KXAN) — A tight-knit community in western Travis County is relying on volunteers for supplies after flash floods severely damaged a bridge at Big Sandy Road and Nameless Road — the only way in and out of the neighborhood.
Saturday’s torrential rain caused Big Sandy Creek to swell dramatically, damaging the infrastructure of the community just outside Leander.
While pedestrians can walk across the bridge at their own risk, cars and other vehicles are unable to cross. Because it’s the only exit for one community, neighbors estimate that it leaves hundreds of people with no way out.
Travis County officials said fixing the bridge is a priority. Hector Nieto, a Travis County spokesperson, said the county is working with the state to install a temporary crossing “as soon as possible.”
“Ideally, we would like for this to be a day or two, but I am not going to guarantee a day or two because I don’t want to overpromise,” Nieto said.
In the meantime, volunteers are shuttling supplies across the bridge on foot. Neighbors are bringing food, water and other essentials to those who are trapped.
Nieto emphasized that even after a temporary crossing is installed, Travis County will develop “long-term” solutions to ensure the bridge is safe for pedestrians and cars to cross.
“We need to evaluate the viability of the bridge and make sure that it is safe for the public,” he said.