US 96 - from RE 255 North to Loop 149

The TxDOT Beaumont District is proposing to reconstruct and widen US 96 from Recreational Road (RE) 255 to Loop 149 in Jasper and Sabine counties, Texas. The proposed project, spanning 6.7 miles, will reconstruct and widen US 96 from a two-lane undivided roadway (one lane in each direction) to a four-lane divided highway with a grassy median. It will also include sidewalks and pedestrian facilities in certain locations.

The proposed project will enhance a critical hurricane evacuation route, upgrade roadway safety features, improve access to and from Southeast Texas ports, and accommodate a projected 52.78% increase in freight traffic by 2053.

(*traffic projections source: TxDOT Statewide Planning Map January 2026)

Proposed improvements

The approximately 6.7-mile proposed project would:

• Convert the existing roadway to a four-lane rural divided highway
• Tie into a similar roadway configuration south of RE 255
• Improve a critical hurricane evacuation route and freight growth
• Improve access to and from the ports in Beaumont, Port Arthur, and Orange, Texas

The proposed improvements will require additional right of way and potentially displace residences and non-residential structures, although the exact amount is yet to be determined. The typical existing ROW width is approximately 120 feet, and the proposed project would require a width of approximately 165 feet.

Next steps

• Conduct environmental review
• Hold public hearing - April 23, 2026
• Finalize design and construction plans
• Start construction - estimated in 2031

Please note that schedule times are estimates only and are subject to change.

Get involved

• April 23, 2026 – virtual public hearing with in-person option

Downloads

• Project Location Map
• US 96 Proposed Alignments Layout
• Online Engagement Results (10/5/2020 - 12/11/2020)

The existing right of way (ROW) width is approximately 120 feet, and the proposed project would require a width of up to 165 feet. The proposed project would, subject to final design considerations, require additional right of way and potentially displace residences.

Relocation assistance is available for displaced people and businesses. Information about the TxDOT Relocation Assistance Program and services and benefits for those displaced and other affected property owners, as well as information about the tentative schedule for right of-way acquisition and construction, can be obtained from the TxDOT district office by calling 409-892-7311 or the TxDOT information line at 800-558-9368.

Updated: Feb. 2026