Austin, Texas, January 7, 2026
The Texas Department of Transportation has embarked on a major construction project on Interstate 35 near Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium. The I-35 Capital Express Central initiative, valued at $4.9 billion, aims to enhance traffic flow and safety in Austin. Key improvements include widening lanes, adding managed lanes, and removing the double-deck section of the highway. The project will impact approximately 140 properties and is expected to face some traffic disruptions until its completion in 2029.
Austin, Texas – The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has initiated significant construction on Interstate 35 (I-35) near Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium, aiming to enhance traffic flow and safety. This project is part of the broader I-35 Capital Express Central initiative, which seeks to alleviate congestion and improve connectivity in the Austin area.
Project Overview
The I-35 Capital Express Central project is a comprehensive $4.9 billion endeavor designed to rebuild and expand I-35 through central and downtown Austin. Key components include:
- Widening main lanes and frontage roads to accommodate increased traffic volume.
- Adding four new managed lanes to improve traffic management and reduce congestion.
- Demolishing the double-deck section of the highway between Airport Boulevard and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard to streamline traffic flow.
- Constructing a below-grade highway in certain sections to enhance aesthetics and reduce noise pollution.
- Developing caps-and-stitches over the highway to create parkland and community spaces, though funding for these features is separate from the main project budget.
Approximately 140 residential and commercial properties within the project’s footprint are slated for demolition through eminent domain to facilitate these improvements.
Current Construction Phases
As of January 2026, the project is in its initial stages, focusing on:
- Reconstructing and widening main lanes to increase capacity.
- Upgrading frontage roads for better access and flow.
- Implementing managed lanes to optimize traffic distribution.
These efforts aim to address the growing traffic demands in the Austin area and improve overall driving conditions.
Impact on Local Traffic
Motorists should anticipate lane closures and potential delays during construction. TxDOT advises drivers to plan alternative routes and stay informed about traffic updates through official channels. The project is expected to span several years, with completion anticipated in 2029. Upon completion, the enhanced infrastructure is projected to significantly improve traffic flow and safety along the I-35 corridor in Austin.
Background Context
I-35 serves as a critical transportation artery, connecting various regions and facilitating commerce and daily commutes. The Capital Express Central project represents a substantial investment in the region’s infrastructure, reflecting the need to modernize and expand transportation networks to meet current and future demands.
Conclusion
Investing in transportation infrastructure is vital for the economic growth of Austin and Texas. The I-35 Capital Express Central project not only aims to enhance traffic flow and safety but also demonstrates the city’s commitment to addressing current and anticipated demands. As the project progresses, residents and local businesses are encouraged to stay engaged and support initiatives that foster community development and economic resilience.
- What is the I-35 Capital Express Central project?
- A $4.9 billion initiative to rebuild and expand I-35 through central and downtown Austin, including widening lanes, adding managed lanes, and demolishing certain sections to improve traffic flow.
- What are the key components of the project?
- Widening main lanes and frontage roads, adding four new managed lanes, demolishing the double-deck section between Airport Boulevard and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, constructing a below-grade highway in certain sections, and developing caps-and-stitches over the highway to create parkland and community spaces.
- How many properties will be affected by the project?
- Approximately 140 residential and commercial properties within the project’s footprint are slated for demolition through eminent domain to facilitate these improvements.
- What is the expected timeline for the project?
- The project is expected to span several years, with completion anticipated in 2029.
- How will the project impact local traffic?
- Motorists should anticipate lane closures and potential delays during construction. TxDOT advises drivers to plan alternative routes and stay informed about traffic updates through official channels.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Name | I-35 Capital Express Central |
| Location | Central and downtown Austin, Texas |
| Budget | $4.9 billion |
| Key Components | Widening lanes, adding managed lanes, demolishing double-deck section, constructing below-grade highway, developing caps-and-stitches for parkland |
| Properties Affected | Approximately 140 residential and commercial properties |
| Timeline | Expected completion in 2029 |
| Traffic Impact | Lane closures and potential delays; motorists advised to plan alternative routes and stay informed |
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