Austin, Texas, August 11, 2025

News Summary

The I-35 Capital Express Central Project is set to bring significant transformations to Austin’s infrastructure, including the addition of new lanes and pedestrian paths. The multi-billion-dollar initiative will close certain local areas during construction while aiming to enhance connectivity for both vehicles and non-motorized users. Local residents are divided on the impacts, with some concerned about disruptions to their leisure activities. The project, designed to ease traffic congestion, is expected to be completed by 2033 and includes plans to integrate public park spaces.

Austin, Texas – Major Changes Ahead for I-35

The I-35 Capital Express Central Project is set to significantly alter beloved city spaces in Austin as construction advances. This multi-billion-dollar initiative will take place along a stretch of I-35 between 290 East and Highway 71 at Ben White Boulevard. Among the immediate impacts, the parking lot under the I-35 bridge will close to accommodate equipment storage, leaving local residents adjusting to a new landscape.

Scheduled to undergo expansion, the project involves lowering sections of the roadway and adding two non-toll lanes in each direction. In addition to the new lanes, plans include the reconstruction of east-west cross-street bridges and the creation of new pedestrian and bicycle paths, ensuring safer movement for non-motorized users. As construction begins, Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) intends to close short segments of the trail up to three times a year for approximately a week beginning in 2026. While detours will be put in place for users on both the north and south shores of the trail, specific locations remain to be determined.

Local residents have expressed varying views on the upcoming changes. Some, like Tuck Brinberry, who frequently uses the area for kayaking and fishing, have raised concerns regarding the project’s impact on their recreational activities. Others, such as Madison Huerta, recognize the long-term benefits but have expressed inconvenience stemming from the planned shifts.

TxdOT aims to minimize disruption for trail users during construction and is committed to maintaining access to key trail environments. To keep the community informed, public notifications will be issued regarding detours and closures throughout the project lifecycle. The I-35 Capital Express Central Project is expected to be completed by 2033 and aims to ease congestion while improving connectivity through downtown Austin.

As part of the construction, the MLK Boulevard exit will be permanently closed. TxDOT has carefully organized major phases of the project to mitigate traffic disruptions during the construction process. The expansion will cover eight miles and is projected to cost approximately $4.5 billion. During construction, design plans ensure that three lanes of traffic will remain open at all times, striking a balance between maintaining traffic flow and executing necessary work.

Beyond the roadway enhancements, TxDOT is currently engaged in litigation addressing potential displacements and environmental impacts associated with the project. Construction is already underway on the Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard bridge segment, reflecting the commitment to an expedited timeline.

A significant focus of this project is on integrating public park spaces above sections of the highway, striving to reconnect neighborhoods that have been divided over the years. Enhanced pedestrian and cyclist crossings will also be built to provide safer access across I-35, aiming to create a more accessible urban environment.

Key Features of the I-35 Capital Express Central Project

• Location: I-35 between 290 East and Highway 71
• Estimated Cost: $4.5 billion
• Timeline: Completion expected by 2033
• Project Length: Eight miles of roadway expansion
• Roadway Changes: Addition of two non-toll lanes in each direction, reconstruction of bridges
• Trails and Crossings: New bike and pedestrian paths, enhanced crossings over I-35
• Traffic Management: Three lanes to remain open at all times during construction

Frequently Asked Questions

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 PHOENIX WRITER

PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa 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 the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.