The need for this east-west connector has increased over time due to population growth in Belton and Bell County. Some vital partnerships included TxDOT, Bell County, federal/state congressional delegations, Belton Chamber, BEDC, BISD, KTMPO, all seven living former mayors and UMHB. The African American Churches United, led by the late Reverend William Hill sought and achieved the name change from West 9th Ave. to West MLK, Jr. Avenue in 2013.