Austin, February 10, 2026
The Texas Department of Transportation has delayed the closure of the northbound I-35 frontage road north of Riverside Drive in Austin. Originally scheduled to start on February 9, the closure will now begin on February 16, and is expected to last until 2029. This is part of the I-35 Capital Express Central project, which aims to improve mobility and infrastructure in the area by reconstructing the I-35 bridges over Lady Bird Lake.
Austin, Texas: TxDOT Delays Years-Long I-35 Closure; Work to Begin February 16, 2026
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has postponed the planned long-term closure of the northbound I-35 frontage road north of Riverside Drive in Austin. Originally set to commence on February 9, 2026, the closure will now begin on February 16, 2026, and is expected to last through 2029. This delay is part of the extensive I-35 Capital Express Central project aimed at reconstructing the I-35 bridges over Lady Bird Lake.
Impact on Traffic and Pedestrians
During this period, the northbound I-35 frontage road will be closed north of Riverside Drive. To mitigate traffic disruptions, TxDOT has implemented several measures:
- Riverside Drive Bypass Lane: A new bypass lane has been established to facilitate northbound traffic flow.
- Temporary U-Turn at Woodland Avenue: Drivers traveling northbound on the frontage road can utilize a temporary U-turn at Woodland Avenue to continue their journey.
- Pedestrian Detours: The east pedestrian path and the north sidewalk on Riverside Drive will be closed. Pedestrians are redirected to the west sidewalk along the southbound I-35 frontage road to cross Lady Bird Lake. Temporary pedestrian signals have been installed at Riverside Drive intersections with Manlove Street and Edgecliff Terrace to ensure safety.
Project Overview
The I-35 Capital Express Central project is a significant component of the broader MyMobility35 initiative, designed to enhance safety, reduce congestion, and better accommodate pedestrians, cyclists, and transit users through central Austin. The reconstruction of the I-35 bridges over Lady Bird Lake is a major milestone in this $4.5 billion project, which aims to improve mobility and infrastructure in the region.
Background Context
In August 2025, TxDOT announced plans to detour the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail during the I-35 construction. The trail, a popular 10-mile path used by an estimated 5 million people annually, will be reconfigured to navigate the construction site. During complex phases of demolition and rebuilding, the trail could be completely closed for up to five days at a time, with such closures occurring no more than three times per year. During these closures, pedestrians would need to detour approximately one mile to cross the highway. TxDOT has been collaborating with The Trail Conservancy to develop a safe and efficient detour plan.
Additionally, in April 2025, the Martin Luther King Jr. Bridge on I-35 in downtown Austin underwent nightly closures to facilitate demolition and reconstruction of the north side of the bridge. These closures were part of efforts to widen the bridge and improve connectivity and safety.
As the I-35 Capital Express Central project progresses, residents and commuters are advised to stay informed about ongoing and upcoming closures and detours. TxDOT continues to work on strategies to minimize disruptions and enhance the transportation infrastructure in Austin.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When will the I-35 northbound frontage road closure begin?
The closure is now scheduled to begin on February 16, 2026, and will last through 2029.
What measures has TxDOT implemented to mitigate traffic disruptions?
TxDOT has established a Riverside Drive bypass lane, a temporary U-turn at Woodland Avenue, and pedestrian detours to ensure safety and maintain traffic flow during the construction period.
How will the I-35 Capital Express Central project affect the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail?
The trail will be reconfigured to navigate the construction site, with potential complete closures for up to five days at a time, occurring no more than three times per year. During these closures, pedestrians will need to detour approximately one mile to cross the highway.
What is the purpose of the I-35 Capital Express Central project?
The project aims to enhance safety, reduce congestion, and better accommodate pedestrians, cyclists, and transit users through central Austin as part of the broader MyMobility35 initiative.
How can I stay informed about ongoing and upcoming closures related to the I-35 project?
Residents and commuters are advised to stay informed by regularly checking updates from TxDOT and local news sources regarding ongoing and upcoming closures and detours.
Key Features of the I-35 Capital Express Central Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Project Name | I-35 Capital Express Central |
| Location | Central Austin, Texas |
| Duration | February 16, 2026 – 2029 |
| Scope | Reconstruction of I-35 bridges over Lady Bird Lake |
| Budget | $4.5 billion |
| Objectives | Enhance safety, reduce congestion, accommodate pedestrians, cyclists, and transit users |
| Traffic Management | Riverside Drive bypass lane, temporary U-turn at Woodland Avenue, pedestrian detours |
| Trail Impact | Reconfiguration of Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail, potential closures up to five days, detour required |
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