The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is moving forward with the I-35 Capital Express Central project in Austin, largely adhering to the plans outlined in February 2024. Here’s the latest:

• Project Initiation: TxDOT broke ground on the $4.5 billion expansion in late October 2024.

• Caps and Stitches Funding: The City of Austin is evaluating funding options for the proposed “caps” over the sunken highway sections. Initially estimated at $900 million, recent projections have escalated to $1.4 billion. In March 2024, the city secured a $105.2 million federal grant to support this initiative. City Council has until March 2025 to decide on committing additional funds.

• Construction Timeline: The project is expected to span approximately nine years, with completion anticipated by 2032.

While the core elements of the project remain consistent with earlier plans, the significant increase in costs for the caps and stitches is a notable development. The City Council’s forthcoming decisions on funding will be crucial in determining the project’s final scope and design.