FM 517 from SH 35 to I-45

Introduction

The proposed project extends from SH 35 to I-45, between Alvin and Dickinson, for approximately 9.8 miles. Proposed improvements on FM 517 would accommodate future anticipated traffic demand and growth in the region.The purpose of the proposed project is to accommodate future anticipated traffic demand and growth in the region, as well as improve safety and mobility by constructing a divided roadway with raised medians.

Project need

The proposed project is needed to address the high crash rate, increased traffic demand, and the lack of multi-modal and regional access in Brazoria and Galveston counties. In 2014, the existing FM 517 facility accommodated about 22,600 vehicles per day. That number is expected to grow to 32,700 vehicles per day by 2040 which is an increase of approximately 44.7 percent. This increased growth is expected to result in increased traffic demand. The proposed project would address these mobility concerns.

Proposed improvements

The project proposes to reconstruct and widen FM 517 from a two-lane roadway to a four-lane divided roadway for a total distance of 9.8 miles. A summary of the improvements is included below.

SH 35 to FM 646 improvements

• Widen from two to four lanes
• Provide 14-foot-wide shoulders
• Provide 10-foot-wide shared-use paths on both sides of the roadway
• Provide curb and gutter drainage system with open vegetated ditches
• Require 65 acres of proposed right of way

FM 646 to I-45 improvements

• Provide 16-foot-wide raised median
• Provide 10-foot-wide shared-use path on the north side
• No proposed right of way

Get involved

• Public hearing with in-person option - July 20, 2021
• Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) available for public review - Oct. 31, 2023
• Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) available for public review - Oct. 31, 2023 (Español)

Downloads

• Final Environmental Assessment - FM 517 from SH 35 to I-45, October 2023
• Finding of No Significant Impact for a FHWA Project