AUSTIN, Texas — The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has announced a major road closure for the I-35 expansion project valued at $4.5 billion. The northbound I-35 Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard bypass lane will be closed until early 2025.
According to the TxDOT officials, the expansion will include adding lanes, upgrading ramps, and improving interchanges.
Local authorities have emphasized that the closure will be long-term, affecting daily commuters and transit routes in and around the city.
Traffic has been rerouted to alternative pathways, with clearly marked detours to facilitate smoother commutes. Signs have been installed to guide drivers through the detours, while electronic message boards provide real-time updates on traffic conditions.
Businesses located along the corridor have been preparing for the potential impact on their operations. Many are considering adjusting work schedules or delivery times to accommodate the anticipated traffic changes.
Some business owners have voiced concerns over the possibility of reduced foot traffic and its impact on revenue. However, officials assure that efforts are being made to minimize disruptions and that the expansion will ultimately benefit the local economy.
City planners and transportation analysts have noted the importance of the I-35 expansion project, citing the increasing population growth in Austin as a driving force behind the need for infrastructure improvements.
The Austin metro area has seen significant population increases in recent years, putting additional pressure on the existing roadways. The project is part of a broader strategy to address these demands and support sustainable growth in the region.