I-10 expansion project draws pushback from NW Houston residents, who propose alternative plans

In northeast Harris County, efforts are underway to address recurring flooding issues along Interstate 10 (I-10) near the Heights, a problem that has rendered the highway impassable on numerous occasions since 1992. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has refined its plans for an elevation project aimed at mitigating these flooding concerns, but some residents remain apprehensive about the proposed changes.

Originally introduced to residents and stakeholders in 2022 for feedback, the project has undergone adjustments based on community input. Updates were presented during an open house on January 17 and a virtual public meeting the following day. However, residents have voiced concerns about the potential negative impacts of TxDOT’s current plan.

During a meeting held on Wednesday evening, advocates presented an alternative proposal to TxDOT’s plan, aiming to educate the community about its potential adverse effects and garner engagement before the April 1 comment period deadline.

TxDOT’s proposal involves elevating the I-10 main lanes and high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes between Heights Boulevard and I-45 near Downtown Houston. This stretch of I-10, approximately 1.8 miles long, would see the main lanes and HOV lanes raised above the flood plain of White Oak Bayou, with the HOV lanes also being widened and a shared-use path constructed beneath the eastbound I-10 main lanes.

The project aims to address federal requirements for interstate passability during storm events, with the targeted stretch of I-10 not currently meeting these standards. Recent flooding incidents during storms such as Tropical Storm Imelda in 2019 and Hurricane Harvey in 2017 underscore the urgency of the project.

Following feedback from residents, TxDOT has made several adjustments to its plans, including modifications to the height of HOV lanes and the relocation of a detention pond. Despite these changes, some residents remain opposed to the project, citing concerns about construction disruptions, property destruction, and environmental impact.

Moving forward, TxDOT plans to review residents’ suggestions and potentially make further design adjustments. The project has already secured approval in the Texas Transportation Commission’s 10-year plan, with construction anticipated to commence in 2025 and last approximately four years.