Why is the proposed project being built and what are the benefits (What is the need of and purpose for the proposed project)?
The project improvements are proposed to increase safety, reduce congestion, and improve operational efficiency.
Will the project require additional right-of-way?
Yes. Approximately 2.5 acres of additional right-of-way have been acquired, which includes ten partial acquisition impacts and one commercial displacement (a Chick-fil-A).
Will the project require any displacements of businesses or residences?
Yes. There would be one commercial displacement, a Chick-fil-A. All property owners from whom property is needed are entitled to receive just compensation for their land and property. Just compensation is based upon the fair market value of the property. TxDOT also provides, through its Relocation Assistance Program, payment and services to aid in movement to a new location. This assistance applies to tenants as well as owners occupying the real property needed for the project. Please contact TxDOT’s Right-of-Way Department for assistance or questions.
When will the construction begin and how long will it take? Will construction be conducted in phases?
TxDOT does plan on using a seven-phased construction approach. Construction activities began on September 16, 2017, and they are scheduled to be complete in the year 2024.
Will congestion get worse during construction?
It is anticipated that the proposed project would cause temporary lane closures within the immediate construction areas. Temporary detours will be required for this project as a means of traffic control. All business and residential access within the project limits would remain open during construction.
How will ingress and egress be handled during construction and after?
Typically, access will be maintained to all properties that currently have access, but there may be temporary closures.
What will be done to speed up the construction process?
Early completion incentives are built into the contract for certain critical construction phases to encourage the contractor to complete work ahead of schedule. The contract also has disincentives to monetarily penalize the contractor for not completing work as scheduled.
What will be done about noise from construction at night?
Roadway construction is temporary; TxDOT will work with the contractor to limit nighttime construction.
Will noise barriers be built?
There are three noise walls included in the project. One along the southbound frontage road of IH 69 west of McCue Street, in the northwest corner of the interchange, and two along the southbound IH 610 frontage road south of IH 69.
How will the project affect air quality? What will be done to protect the air quality in this area?
Impacts to the local air quality that could result from operations and construction of the project were considered during the planning stages of the project. The proposed improvements meet all federal air quality requirements as established by the Federal Highway Administration and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Will the project increase flooding?
No. Project design does not result in an increase to the base flood elevation to a level that would violate floodplain regulations and ordinances. The hydraulic design and detention facilities for the project are in accordance with current TxDOT and Federal Highway Administration policies and standards.
Will there be detention sites associated with this project?
Yes. There is a detention site located between the IH 69 mainlanes and Westpark Drive west of IH 610.
What is the drainage design for the east side of I-610 in Bellaire?
Drainage along the east side of IH 610 includes new trunk lines between the mainlanes and the frontage road.
Why is the project going to be built in phases?
Some direct connectors have to be built before other phases of the project can be linked to them.
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