Title
Consider approving Resolution No. 2026-081 for a Professional Services Agreement with Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. for professional engineering services for the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Green Ribbon Program in an amount not to exceed $410,000; and take appropriate action.
Body
REQUESTOR:
Parks and Recreation Department
BACKGROUND:
Consistent with the City Council’s strategic vision for a welcoming, attractive, and economically vibrant community, the City is advancing improvements along IH-35E to create a strong and recognizable “Gateway to Farmers Branch.” As one of the City’s most visible and heavily traveled corridors, IH-35E provides an important opportunity to establish a positive first impression, reinforce Farmers Branch’s identity, and demonstrate continued investment in the appearance and vitality of the community.
This project leverages Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) funding to enhance one of the City’s prominent corridors while advancing the City’s beautification, gateway, and redevelopment objectives. Improvements along IH-35E will strengthen Farmers Branch's visual identity, enhance the appearance of key entrances into the community, and provide environmental benefits through sustainable, appropriate landscaping.
On December 9, 2025, the City Council approved Resolution No. 2025-240, authorizing the submission of an application to the Texas Department of Transportation for Green Ribbon Program funding for landscape enhancements within the IH-35E corridor and TxDOT right-of-way located within the City limits.
The proposed project will focus on the IH-35E corridor, specifically at the following intersections:
• Valwood Parkway and IH-35E
• Valley View Lane and IH-35E - Gateway
• Valley View Lane and IH-35E - Interchange
On February 26, 2026, the City received approval from TxDOT for an award of $2,311,100 in Green Ribbon Program funding for landscape enhancements. The funding is limited to planting installation, soil preparation, and limited irrigation activities. The program does not fund engineering design fees.
DISCUSSION:
Approval of Resolution No. 2026-081 will authorize a Professional Services Agreement with Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. for professional engineering services related to the TxDOT Green Ribbon Program. Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. completed and submitted the City’s application for the TxDOT Green Ribbon Program in October 2025.
Because TxDOT’s timeline for using the awarded funds is shortened, the City will need to continue retaining the services of Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. to expedite the project. The project is anticipated to be advertised for bid in summer 2027. Project plans must comply with all applicable TxDOT and federal requirements associated with this type of funding.
The nature and complexity of the project require an experienced professional engineering firm with specialized expertise in TxDOT-funded projects to help the City advance the project efficiently and in accordance with all applicable requirements.
Estimated Project timeline:
Fall 2026 Begin Project Design and Construction Documents
Spring 2027 Complete design and construction documents
Summer 2027 Bid project
Fall 2027 Begin construction (pending status of IH-35E road construction)
Spring 2028 Complete project (pending status of IH-35E road construction)
FISCAL IMPACT:
Budgeted Financial Impact of $410,000 in the Parks Master Plan CIP budget.
DISTRICT:
Districts 1 and 3
POSSIBLE COUNCIL ACTION:
1. I move to approve Resolution No. 2026-081 as presented.
2. I move to approve Resolution No. 2026-081, with modifications.
3. I move to table the issue for further study or take no action.
ATTACHMENT(S):
1. Resolution No. 2026-081
2. Professional Service Agreement
3. IH-35E Vision Study
4. Green Ribbon Application
5. Green Ribbon Award Letter
6. Presentation