This project is dedicated to improving safety and mobility along US 59 (Future I-69) between Shepherd and Cleveland. 

TxDOT is proposing to upgrade existing US 59 by constructing frontage roads and overpasses from FM 2914 near Shepherd to the north end of the Cleveland Relief Route. The project would be designed to meet interstate standards for possible future designation as I-69 and would:

• Enhance safety and improve mobility along US 59
• Provide a more efficient hurricane evacuation route
• Provide system connectivity to I-69 which is a 1,600 mile national highway connecting Michigan, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi, Arkansas, Louisiana and Texas. I-69 also provides access to inland ports and sea ports along the gulf coast

An open house was held on Sept. 27, 2016, to gather local input on the proposed improvements to US 59. Over the last two and a half years, TxDOT used findings from various reports and public feedback to refine the schematic and complete environmental documentation. 

On May 14, 2019, the Lufkin District will hold a public hearing at the Shepherd High School Cafeteria to present the results of our work and receive public comments on the proposed project.  

Next Steps

• The schematic and environmental study approvals are anticipated in summer 2019.
• TxDOT has begun right of way (ROW) mapping and received approval for early acquisition of right of way, which provides the Lufkin Distict the ability to begin ROW acquisition prior to environmental clearance; therefore, ROW acquisition is estimated to begin spring 2019.
• Construction funding was identified in the December 2017 revision of TxDOT’s Unified Transportation Program (UTP). The construction start date has currently been set for spring 2023.

Get Involved

• Open House - Sept. 27, 2016
  
• Public Hearing - May 14, 2019

Downloads

• Sept. 27, 2016 - Meeting Summary Report
• Project Location Map

Contact Us

I-69 Project Manager
TxDOT Lufkin District
1805 N. Timberland Drive
Lufkin, TX 75901

(936) 633-4469
Email