I-69 Connector Project
Project overview
The I-69 Connector project is currently described in the 2024 Unified Transportation Plan as a new location, non-toll freeway, extending from I-69C/US Highway 281 to I-69E/US 77 in the Lower Rio Grande Valley.
Based on the results of the feasibility study, it was determined that an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) should be prepared. The decision to prepare an EIS is made when the Administration determines the proposed action is likely to cause significant impacts on the environment.
The EIS will incorporate information collected during the feasibility study process; in addition, public input gathered during the development of the feasibility study will be considered in the EIS process.
The proposed project would evaluate a new potential connection from I-69C/US 281 to I-69E/US 77 in Hidalgo, Cameron, and Willacy Counties, Texas.
The proposed project could potentially include constructing a highway on new location for approximately 25 miles with grade separations at intersections with major crossroads.
Purpose and need
The purpose and need of the proposed I–69 Connector is to alleviate/ reduce traffic congestion and improve regional mobility, to improve and increase transportation network connectivity, to address future population growth and travel demands, and to provide an east-west hurricane evacuation route.
Significance of Impacts
The EIS will analyze potential direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts from the construction and operation of proposed corridor improvements including, but not limited to, the following:
- Transportation
- Potential displacements of residents, businesses, land uses, and vegetation
- Socioeconomics including environmental justice communities
- Historic and archeological resources
- Threatened and endangered species
- Water quality including stormwater runoff
- Waters of the United States including wetlands
- Floodplains
- Air quality and traffic noise
- Aesthetic and visual resources
Get involved
The proposed project evolved from a TxDOT feasibility study that began in 2019 and assessed several conceptual corridor alternatives to address transportation needs. Public involvement is a critical component of the I-69 Connector project and TxDOT will continue to work with communities in the study area to understand transportation needs. The project team welcomes comments and suggestions from interested parties. For questions and comments on the I-69 Connector project, visit the TxDOT office at 600 West I-2 in Pharr, Texas, email the Pharr district at the email address linked here, or attend one of the public scoping meetings listed below:
- Jul. 27, 2024 - Agency scoping meeting
- Jan. 21, 2025 - Virtual and in-person project scoping meeting (Edinburg) - CANCELED
- Jan. 23, 2025 - Virtual and in-person project scoping meeting (Santa Rosa)
Memorandum of Understanding
The environmental review, consultation, and other actions required by applicable Federal environmental laws for this project are being, or have been, carried out by TxDOT pursuant to 23 U.S.C. 327 and a Memorandum of Understanding dated December 9, 2019, and executed by the Federal Highway Administration and TxDOT.