San Antonio, January 31, 2026
The Texas Department of Transportation has initiated a massive $2.4 billion project to reconstruct a significant 20-mile stretch of Interstate 35 in San Antonio. The initiative seeks to reduce traffic congestion and improve travel times, with completion expected by 2029. The efforts involve constructing elevated lanes and enhancing connections to nearby routes, ultimately supporting the city’s economic growth and improving residents’ quality of life.
San Antonio’s $2.4 Billion I-35 Rebuild Aims to Alleviate Traffic Congestion
San Antonio, Texas – The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has initiated a $2.4 billion project to reconstruct a 20-mile stretch of Interstate 35 (I-35) in San Antonio, aiming to reduce traffic congestion and improve travel times. The project is expected to be completed by 2029.
Project Overview
The I-35 rebuild project spans from Farm to Market Road 3009 near Schertz to the intersection of I-35 and Loop 410 South near Von Ormy. The plan includes the construction of elevated lanes, comprising two main lanes and one high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane in each direction, designed to accommodate current and future traffic demands. These elevated lanes will provide direct connections to Loop 410 North and Loop 1604 West, enhancing mobility and operational efficiency along the I-35 corridor.
Current Progress
As of January 2026, the project is in its second phase, which covers the stretch from Loop 410 North to the Southwest Side. This phase is approximately 29% complete and is slated for completion by 2029. The first phase, located on the Far Northeast Side, is nearly 50% complete and is expected to wrap up next year. The construction involves building elevated lanes, reconfiguring entrance and exit ramps, and adding and improving bicycle and pedestrian paths to promote multimodal transportation.
Impact on Local Businesses
Local businesses along the I-35 corridor have experienced challenges due to ongoing construction. For instance, Eurasian Auto Repair, a long-standing repair shop specializing in foreign luxury vehicles and fleet trucks, reported a 30% decline in work in 2025 as construction intensified. Customers have expressed concerns about navigating the area amidst the construction, leading to decreased patronage. Despite these challenges, TxDOT anticipates that the completed project will significantly reduce commute times and improve traffic flow, benefiting both commuters and local businesses in the long term.
Background Context
The I-35 corridor is a critical transportation route, serving as a major artery for both local and interstate traffic. The reconstruction project is part of TxDOT’s broader efforts to address increasing traffic volumes and enhance safety and mobility along the corridor. The project is expected to accommodate projected traffic growth over the next 20 to 25 years, with estimates indicating that commute times could be reduced by up to 30 minutes upon completion. The initiative reflects a significant investment in San Antonio’s infrastructure, aiming to support the city’s economic growth and improve the quality of life for its residents.
Key Features of the I-35 Rebuild Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Project Cost | $2.4 billion |
| Project Length | 20 miles |
| Completion Date | 2029 |
| Elevated Lanes | Two main lanes and one HOV lane in each direction |
| Direct Connections | Loop 410 North and Loop 1604 West |
| Current Phase Completion | 29% complete as of January 2026 |
| First Phase Completion | Nearly 50% complete, expected to wrap up next year |
| Impact on Local Businesses | Challenges due to construction; anticipated long-term benefits |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the I-35 rebuild project in San Antonio?
The I-35 rebuild project is a $2.4 billion initiative by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to reconstruct a 20-mile stretch of Interstate 35 in San Antonio, aiming to reduce traffic congestion and improve travel times. The project is expected to be completed by 2029.
What does the project entail?
The project includes the construction of elevated lanes, comprising two main lanes and one high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane in each direction, designed to accommodate current and future traffic demands. These elevated lanes will provide direct connections to Loop 410 North and Loop 1604 West, enhancing mobility and operational efficiency along the I-35 corridor.
How is the project progressing?
As of January 2026, the project is in its second phase, covering the stretch from Loop 410 North to the Southwest Side. This phase is approximately 29% complete and is slated for completion by 2029. The first phase, located on the Far Northeast Side, is nearly 50% complete and is expected to wrap up next year.
How has the construction affected local businesses?
Local businesses along the I-35 corridor have experienced challenges due to ongoing construction. For example, Eurasian Auto Repair reported a 30% decline in work in 2025 as construction intensified. Customers have expressed concerns about navigating the area amidst the construction, leading to decreased patronage. Despite these challenges, TxDOT anticipates that the completed project will significantly reduce commute times and improve traffic flow, benefiting both commuters and local businesses in the long term.
Why is this project important for San Antonio?
The I-35 corridor is a critical transportation route, serving as a major artery for both local and interstate traffic. The reconstruction project is part of TxDOT’s broader efforts to address increasing traffic volumes and enhance safety and mobility along the corridor. The project is expected to accommodate projected traffic growth over the next 20 to 25 years, with estimates indicating that commute times could be reduced by up to 30 minutes upon completion. The initiative reflects a significant investment in San Antonio’s infrastructure, aiming to support the city’s economic growth and improve the quality of life for its residents.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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