If you've driven through central Austin lately, you've seen the cones and cranes along I-35. That's the I-35 Capital Express Central project, one of the biggest changes to Austin's roads in decades. Here's what's coming and when.
What's Changing
TxDOT is rebuilding I-35 through downtown and the University of Texas area. The main changes:
- New managed lanes: Two non-tolled managed lanes in each direction
- A lowered highway: The main lanes will be lowered downtown, and the upper decks near UT will be removed
- Rebuilt east-west crossings: Easier connections between East Austin and downtown
The Timeline
- MLK Jr. Boulevard Bridge: 2024 to 2026
- Lady Bird Lake: 2025 to 2033
- Drainage Tunnel and Pump Station: 2025 to 2029
- Downtown: 2027 to 2033
- University: 2027 to 2033
The Lady Bird Lake and Drainage Tunnel segments are in active construction now.
New Crossings and Trails
East-west crossings will be rebuilt at Cesar Chavez, 4th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 11th, and 12th Streets downtown, plus 38th ½ Street, 32nd Street, and Manor Road near UT.
For walking and biking, TxDOT plans:
- More than 19 miles of new shared-use paths
- 13 connections to Austin's trail and bike networks
- New bike and pedestrian crossings at 4th Street, 55th Street/Capital Plaza, the Red Line at Airport Boulevard, Lady Bird Lake, and Woodland Avenue
What About Cap and Stitch?
Cap and Stitch is the plan to build parks and public spaces over parts of the lowered highway. TxDOT is working with the City of Austin and UT on the design, and the City and UT will fund ongoing operations and maintenance. The goal is to reconnect neighborhoods I-35 has divided for decades.
Getting Around During Construction
- Check closures on TxDOT's Mobility35 website before you go
- Allow extra time near downtown and Lady Bird Lake
- Try MoPac, US 183, or surface streets at peak hours
- Watch for lane shifts, especially at night
What It Means for Living in Austin
For now, construction means detours and patience. Over time, the new crossings, trails, and possible Cap and Stitch parks could change how neighborhoods on both sides of the highway connect.
If you're buying near the corridor, think about both the construction on nearby streets today and how the finished project could affect your commute later. If you're selling, knowing the timeline helps you answer buyer questions with confidence.
Have questions about how I-35 construction might affect a home you're buying or selling in Austin? Reach out anytime. I'm happy to talk through neighborhoods, commutes, and what makes the most sense for you.
-Ami
