The Texas Department of Transportation was joined by officials from Williamson County, the City of Round Rock and the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization on March 9 to break ground on the I-35 at US 79 (southbound) project.

“If you’ve driven on this section of I-35, you know it backs up at all hours of the day,” said TxDOT Austin District Engineer Tucker Ferguson. “This project should eliminate merging conflicts, while addressing congestion and improving safety and mobility along this portion of the highway in Williamson County.”

The I-35 at US 79 (southbound) project will construct an extended entrance and exit lane between US 79 and SH 45 North. 

“Williamson County continues to rank as one of the fastest-growing areas in the country, and good roads and bridges are critical for personal movement and commerce,” said Williamson County Commissioner Terry Cook. “This project is on a long list of improvements built out of a great working partnership between the county and TxDOT.”

The project will also shift the median barrier, restripe the southbound I-35 main lanes and install high-mast lighting.

“Improving mobility and traffic flow throughout Round Rock is one of our top priorities, and we appreciate TxDOT’s partnership in providing relief for drivers along the I-35 corridor,” said Round Rock Mayor Craig Morgan.

This $8.4 million Texas Clear Lanes project is expected to be complete in early 2023, weather permitting. The contractor is JD Abrams L.P.