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HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — The City of Houston has agreed to sell nearly three acres of land near downtown to TxDOT for the expansion of Interstate 45. The land, located along White Oak Bayou near the University of Houston-Downtown, will see freeway lanes constructed over existing running and biking trails.
Mayor John Whitmire was one of 11 city council members who voted in favor of the $261,051 sale during Wednesday morning’s meeting. District H Councilman Mario Castillo, who represents the area where the land is located, was one of four votes against the sale. Opponents expressed concerns about the impact on trail users, wildlife, and the environment.
Proponents, including Whitmire, assured that the construction would not eliminate the trails. Agreements between the city and TxDOT will ensure that the trails remain open and maintained throughout the construction process.
The vote was initially scheduled for last week but was postponed to provide council members with more information. Despite nearly being delayed again, the vote proceeded as planned. Whitmire mentioned he would have allowed an additional delay but believed it would give opposition groups more opportunities to speak out. “We’re past that discussion,” Whitmire said regarding any plans to modify the project.
The group Stop TxDOT I-45, which has opposed the entire expansion project, expressed disappointment with the vote. They urged the mayor and city council to ensure TxDOT keeps the White Oak Bayou trail open during and after construction.
Construction on this portion of the expansion is scheduled to begin in 2027, according to TxDOT’s website.