Construction planned for vital loop around Houston

July 2, 2026

By Danny Perez

Houston, Texas — Houstonians are very familiar with the saying “Houston is just an hour away from Houston.” The expanding Grand Parkway aims to help put an end to that adage.

The existing Grand Parkway system has helped to provide relief for those needing to reach destinations in the Houston area without having to use major corridors through the city.

The loop around Houston is comprised of segments in various phases of planning and development. The system helps connect communities, reduce congestion and support long-term growth.

The next segment of the 184-mile Grand Parkway loop scheduled for construction will create a vital new link in the system’s southeast arc.

Segment B-1 is a 14-mile section of SH 99 that will extend from FM 626 in Galveston County to south of FM 2403 in Brazoria County. The project will help improve mobility, reduce congestion and enhance safety.

“This Grand Parkway project represents a significant investment in the future of the Houston region,” said TxDOT Houston District Engineer Glenn Allbritton. “By improving traffic flow, increasing connectivity, and enhancing safety for motorists, we are continuing the progress of this major corridor that will better serve residents, businesses, and visitors for years to come.”

The project includes the following key improvements:

• 14 miles of new SH 99 mainlanes (two in each direction) with discontinuous frontage roads and grade-separated interchanges for local connectivity.
• Direct connectors linking drivers to SH 35 and IH-45 to enhance regional connectivity.
• Nearly six miles of non-tolled operational improvements to SH 35 north of SH 99.

The Texas Transportation Commission recently authorized the project to move forward with engaging a design-build contractor, an important milestone as planning continues.

Construction is expected to begin in early 2027, with completion expected by 2032.

The long-term goal is to improve how people and goods move through one of the fastest-growing parts of Texas. Drivers can stay informed and follow the project’s progress here.