This page provides an overview of the I-35 expansion project in Austin, one of the largest transportation infrastructure efforts in Central Texas. The project aims to improve mobility, reduce congestion, enhance safety, and support long-term regional growth along one of the busiest highway corridors in the state.
Project Purpose
I-35 is a critical north–south transportation route through Austin. Decades of population growth and increased traffic have created significant congestion and safety challenges. The expansion project is designed to modernize the highway and improve travel conditions for drivers, transit riders, pedestrians, and cyclists.
Key goals include:
- Reducing traffic congestion
- Improving travel times
- Enhancing safety
- Supporting transit and multimodal travel
- Reconnecting neighborhoods divided by the highway
Project Scope
The I-35 expansion includes major improvements along the central corridor through Austin. The project is divided into multiple segments, each with its own construction timeline and design features.
- Adding managed lanes
- Reconstructing existing lanes
- Improving frontage roads
- Redesigning interchanges
- Enhancing pedestrian and bicycle crossings
- Lowering sections of the highway in central Austin
Managed Lanes
The project includes new managed lanes designed to improve traffic flow. These lanes may be used for carpools, transit, and other high-occupancy vehicles, depending on final design decisions.
Lowered Highway Sections
In central Austin, portions of I-35 will be lowered below grade. This design allows for new bridges and caps that reconnect neighborhoods currently separated by the highway.
- Potential for new public spaces
- Improved east–west connectivity
- Reduced noise and visual impact
Pedestrian and Bicycle Improvements
The project includes new and improved crossings to make it safer and easier for pedestrians and cyclists to travel across I-35.
- Wider sidewalks
- Protected bike lanes
- New bridges and underpasses
- Improved lighting and safety features
Construction Timeline
The I-35 expansion is a multi-year project with phased construction. Timelines vary by segment and are subject to change based on engineering, funding, and environmental review.
Embed project timeline or TxDOT dashboard here.
Community Impact
The project will have significant impacts on nearby neighborhoods, businesses, and travel patterns during construction. Mitigation efforts include:
- Noise and dust control
- Traffic management plans
- Business access programs
- Community engagement and public meetings
Funding
The project is funded through a combination of state, federal, and regional transportation funds. No property tax increases are tied directly to the project.
Data Sources
- Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)
- City of Austin Transportation and Public Works
- Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO)