The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has been working hard on the $620 million Interstate 10/US 69 Interchange Projects.
According to TxDOT Information Officer Sarah Dupre, the demolition is ongoing, originally beginning in April 2022. Construction has started on the "Cardinal Drive Project."
The projects goals to reduce congestion, improve mobility and improve emergency evacuation, according to TxDOT.
Through the projects, the I-10/US 69 roadway will be widened in each direction from four to six lanes between the Cardinal Drive and U.S. 69 interchanges and the approaches will increase from two lanes to three. TxDOT's website states that new frontage roads will be added for continuity throughout the project limits, Interstate 10 ramps will be relocated, two-lane direct connectors will be constructed in each direction where the two highways converge, and the Maury Meyers Bridge will be removed.
"For the Eastex Interchange project, 22 (land) parcels were acquired for a total of approximately $45 million," Dupre said. "We do not have a final amount for the demolition cost yet, as we are still clearing right of way."
The existing right of way at the Eastex interchange varies from approximately 250 feet to 350 feet. It anticipated acquiring approximately 11 acres of additional of additional right of way. However, Dupre didn't verify how much was ultimately obtained.
The project's construction will go out for bids in May 2024.
According to TxDOT, the work will include reconstructing the interchange from Hollywood Overpass east to Seventh Street and widening the freeway to six main lanes from its current four. The project will also include constructing frontage roads, sound walls, retaining walls, and 15 bridges.
Construction is anticipated to begin in the summer of 2024, with the $320 million project completing five years later.
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Source: Chron.com
