Austin, August 11, 2025
News Summary
Austin is bracing for major changes with the I-35 Capital Express Central Project, a multi-billion-dollar infrastructure endeavor aimed at reducing traffic congestion and improving connectivity. This extensive project will impact beloved spaces as the roadway is lowered, new non-toll lanes are added, and pedestrian and cyclist paths are created. While temporary trail closures are anticipated, the Texas Department of Transportation is committed to minimizing disruption for local residents. The project, expected to be completed by 2033, is a significant step towards enhancing safety and accessibility in the downtown area.
Austin is preparing for significant changes as the I-35 Capital Express Central Project gears up for construction, which will impact many beloved city spaces. This multi-billion-dollar endeavor is designed to alleviate traffic congestion and improve connectivity through downtown, affecting areas between 290 East and Highway 71 at Ben White Boulevard.
The project is set to involve the closing of the parking lot beneath the I-35 bridge, which will be used for equipment storage during construction. Key features of this extensive project include lowering the roadway, adding two non-toll lanes in each direction, and rebuilding the east-west cross-street bridges. Additionally, plans include the creation of new pedestrian and bicycle paths, enhancing safety for non-motorists.
In order to carry out these improvements, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) will close short segments of the trail running alongside the highway for about a week, up to three times per year, starting in 2026. While specific detour locations for both the north and south shores of the trail are still being finalized, TxDOT aims to keep local residents informed through public notifications regarding these closures.
Local residents who frequently visit the area for activities such as kayaking and fishing have expressed concerns about the temporary disruptions. In particular, Tuck Brinberry, who often enjoys the area, voiced apprehension about the potential effects of construction on their regular activities. Likewise, Madison Huerta acknowledged the project’s long-term benefits but cited personal inconvenience during the construction phase.
Assuring minimal disruption for trail users, TxDOT emphasizes that it will prioritize maintaining access to these important recreational spaces. The entire project, with an estimated cost of $4.5 billion, is expected to be completed by 2033 and includes measures to maintain three lanes of traffic open at all times during the construction phase.
A permanent closure of the MLK Boulevard exit will take place as a part of this project, which spans a total of eight miles of highway expansion. Major phases have been structured to minimize traffic disruption wherever possible. Construction is already underway on the Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard bridge segment, with an eye on improving pedestrian and cyclist safety alongside the highway.
Moreover, the project designers are focusing on integrating public park spaces above sections of the highway, aiming to reconnect neighborhoods that have been divided. An emphasis will be placed on enhancing pedestrian and bicycle crossings, providing safer access across I-35 and fostering community connections.
Key Project Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Cost | $4.5 billion |
| Length of Expansion | 8 miles |
| Estimated Completion Date | 2033 |
| Lanes Added | Two non-toll lanes in each direction |
| Main Goals | Reduce congestion and enhance connectivity |
| Trail Closures | Segments closed for about a week, up to three times a year |
FAQs
What is the I-35 Capital Express Central Project?
The I-35 Capital Express Central Project is a multi-billion-dollar infrastructure project aimed at relieving traffic congestion and improving connectivity through downtown Austin. It will involve the addition of two non-toll lanes in each direction, lower the roadway, and create new paths for pedestrians and cyclists.
When is the project expected to be completed?
The project is expected to be completed by 2033, with various construction phases in place to minimize traffic disruption during development.
How will the project affect local residents?
Local residents will experience temporary disruptions, including trail closures and detours. However, TxDOT assures that they are prioritizing trail access and minimizing inconvenience for users.
What safety improvements are included in the project?
The project will enhance pedestrian and cyclist safety along the highway and include improvements like safer crossings and integrated public park spaces to reconnect divided neighborhoods.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- CBS Austin: MLK Boulevard Exit Closure
- KXAN: I-35 Central Project Groundbreaking Ceremony
- FOX 7 Austin: I-35 Expansion Construction Update
- WSP: Texas CapEx Central I-35 Expansion
- KVUE: I-35 Capital Express North Project Safety Concerns
- Wikipedia: Interstate 35 in Texas
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Interstate System
- Google Search: I-35 Austin project
- Google News: I-35 Capital Express
Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.
