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.
Need
The proposed I-69 Connector project would provide transportation improvements in the Lower Rio Grande Valley.
The proposed project is needed to:
- improve mobility in the study area and the region, reduce traffic congestion
- provide east-west connectivity for the transportation network
- address traffic increases resulting from anticipated population growth, and
- provide east-west hurricane/emergency evacuation
Purpose
The purpose of the proposed I-69 Connector project is to:
- alleviate/reduce traffic congestion and improve mobility,
- improve connectivity for travelers,
- address future travel demand, 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 or email the Pharr district at the email address linked here.
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.