The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has started 2026 with several major transportation projects aimed at expanding highways, improving safety, and enhancing mobility across the state.
In Austin, TxDOT is moving forward with a significant phase of the I-35 Capital Express Central project. The department is preparing to reconstruct the I-35 bridges over Lady Bird Lake, marking a milestone in the $4.5 billion initiative. The project includes permanent closures of certain exits and entrances but introduces new bypass lanes and temporary routes to maintain traffic flow during construction. This long-term effort is part of MyMobility35, which seeks to improve safety and reduce congestion while making central Austin more accessible for pedestrians, cyclists, and transit users.
Williamson County saw the groundbreaking for Phase 1a of the RM 2243 project. In collaboration with local leaders and federal partners, TxDOT will reconstruct and widen 3.5 miles between 183A and Garey Park. The upgrades include a center turn lane, safer road alignments, and a shared-use path for non-motorized travelers. Completion is expected by early 2028.
In Wimberley, Hays County, nighttime work began on three new traffic signals at RR 12 and Old Kyle Road. These signals are intended to enhance safety at a busy intersection while minimizing daytime disruptions.
The Greater Houston area will see an expansion of the Grand Parkway in west Harris County due to rapid residential growth and increased congestion between I-10 and Highway 290. Construction starting this summer will widen the corridor from four lanes to six, replace cable barriers with concrete ones for added safety, and add noise walls where necessary.
West Texas also received attention with plans announced for a $125 million expansion of I-20 in Taylor County. The project will widen the interstate to six lanes and add an overpass at Judge Ely Boulevard; construction is set for late 2026.
In Lubbock, TxDOT launched a $2.7 million safety project on U.S. 62 between Lubbock and Ropesville by installing cable median barriers designed to reduce severe crashes.
Amarillo crews have begun making ADA improvements along I-40 service roads and Washington Street by adding curb ramps, sidewalks, and shared-use paths to increase accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists—a step that aligns with broader efforts nationwide such as those recognized during the ADA’s anniversary, when innovative design challenges sought better mobility options for people with disabilities.
These projects are part of larger trends supported by federal initiatives like the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) program, which provides funding to modernize transportation systems nationwide through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
From large-scale urban reconstructions in cities like Austin, Houston, and San Antonio to smaller community-focused upgrades throughout rural areas, January highlighted TxDOT’s ongoing commitment: “Connecting you with Texas.”
