Segment 2
Potential right of way (ROW) footprint reduction
In alignment with the requests from the City of Houston and Harris County, as outlined in Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with both entities, TxDOT is prioritizing assessments to explore opportunities for reducing the right-of-way (ROW) footprint for Segments 1 and 2. This effort goes beyond the footprint approved in the 2021 Record of Decision (ROD) and demonstrates TxDOT’s commitment to minimizing impacts on surrounding communities. Additionally, studying potential footprint reductions is a key action item in TxDOT’s Voluntary Resolution Agreement (VRA) with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). ”
ROW footprint reduction method: adjusting the I-10 eastbound direct connector to I-45 northbound
Original alignment
The original alignment, highlighted in blue, was approved in the Record of Decision (ROD). This configuration required motorists traveling eastbound on I-10 to exit onto the I-45 northbound frontage road before merging onto the mainlanes. This design necessitated additional right-of-way (ROW), increasing the project footprint.
Proposed alignment
The new proposed alignment, also highlighted in blue, allows eastbound I-10 motorists to merge directly onto the I-45 northbound mainlanes, eliminating the need to exit to the frontage road. This streamlined configuration reduces the required ROW, with the saved area shown in magenta.
This change minimizes the project’s impact on surrounding areas while improving traffic flow and reducing the overall footprint of the project.
Proposed design changes under consideration
As part of TxDOT’s ongoing collaboration with the City of Houston on the I-45 North Houston Highway Improvement Project (NHHIP), several design changes are being discussed to address the City’s requests and enhance project outcomes. ”
Proposed design change: I-45 access to and from North Main Street
The new proposed alignment, also highlighted in blue, allows eastbound I-10 motorists to merge directly onto the I-45 northbound mainlanes, eliminating the need to exit to the frontage road. This streamlined configuration reduces the required ROW, with the saved area shown in magenta.
This change minimizes the project’s impact on surrounding areas while improving traffic flow and reducing the overall footprint of the project.
Proposed design change: pedestrian bridge
Key details:
Strategic Location: The pedestrian bridge is positioned slightly away from North Street to allow for its continued use during construction for as long as possible.
Access Preservation: This bridge is designed to ensure pedestrian connectivity after the removal of the existing North Street bridge, which is necessary due to changes in the mainlane geometry that prevent a seamless connection.
Response to Public Feedback: The proposal reflects TxDOT’s responsiveness to community concerns about maintaining pedestrian access across I-45 after the North Street bridge is removed.
This solution aims to enhance safety and connectivity for pedestrians while aligning with the overall goals of the I-45 NHHIP.
At the request of the City of Houston, TxDOT is considering the construction of a pedestrian bridge near North Street, indicated by the green line in the image. This proposed bridge would provide pedestrians with a safe and convenient way to cross I-45, maintaining accessibility between both sides of the highway.
