Work will start on the controversial 13km upgrade of the I-35 highway in Austin, Texas during 2024. The construction work is expected to cost US$4.5 billion. Approval for the project has been given by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT).
The route will be improved between Ben White Boulevard and US 290 East. The project will have two new managed lanes, while decks will be removed.
Changes have been made by TxDOT to the highway plans, with a number of mitigation features that are intended to address public concern over the expansion of the highway through the city.
There will now be an elevated bicycle and pedestrian bridge at 15th Street, $100 million being spent for visual improvements, additional funding for bus services during construction, an app providing information on construction closures and a noise barrier between I-35 and the community gardens near Festival Beach.
