Segment 3 - 3D Schematics Visualization
(Video Transcript)
Segment 3
This visualization shows the proposed improvements to the downtown Houston loop system, which includes improvements to I-45, I-10, I-69 and State Highway 288. It begins along I-69 near Montrose Boulevard where it would be widened from eight lanes total to 10 or 12 lanes. An area of I-69 between Main and Caroline streets is proposed to be depressed. The structural cap on top could be developed by parties other than TxDOT into a public space.
The visualization continues along I-69 northbound until the roadway meets with State Highway 288. Continuing northbound, cross streets such as Elgin, Tuam and McGowen would still cross over I-69 and SH 288, but the bridges would be redesigned and look similar to the I-69 cross street bridges in the Montrose area.
Continuing north along I-69’s route, direct connectors will provide access between Downtown and Midtown and I-45. The Pierce Elevated route will be abandoned and instead I-45 will run parallel with
I-69 through the east side of Downtown. An area of I-45 and I-69 between Lamar and Franklin streets is proposed to be depressed. The structural cap on top could be developed by parties other than TxDOT into a public space.
I-69’s route moves northeast away from Downtown, toward the I-10 interchange. Here the video moves from eastbound to westbound, showing how I-45 changes course and begins to run parallel to I-10. I-45 would be elevated, with I-10 below. I-10 will also have two express lanes in the middle which will allow motorists to move through the Downtown area without mixing with exiting and entering traffic.
Continuing westbound, the Downtown Connectors appear, with an exit to them coming from I-10 and an entrance from them going to I-10. These connectors to and from Downtown would be built in the area where the I-45 Pierce Elevated is now. Since I-45’s configuration would change, the Pierce Elevated would no longer be needed. The connectors will provide Downtown exits to McKinney and Jefferson streets. Entrances to the connectors will be available from Walker Street, Allen Parkway and Pease Street.
