HOUSTON, Texas – The Texas Department of Transportation broke ground on its $13 billion I-45 North Houston Highway Improvement Project on Wednesday, but not everyone was excited about the new development.
TxDOT says the project, which has been in development for several years, will improve traffic flow, safety and mobility along one of Houston’s busiest highways. But even with the promise to alleviate congestion and enhance roadway capacity, many Houstonians are still not supportive of the project, raising concerns about potential displacement and safety, particularly for those living in the right of way.
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“We want to make sure we’re bringing the public together to present them the updates that we have. Let them know what we’re doing to provide them with some of the information and changes that have been made along the process,” TxDOT spokesman Danny Perez said about addressing the public’s concerns.
Still, groups like Stop TxDOT I-45, said it’s fighting to stop the multi-million-dollar I-45 North project because the developments will take 1,235 homes, 331 businesses and five houses of worship.
“Even if you don’t lose your home, the neighborhoods near the freeway will be affected by automobile pollution, noise pollution, water pollution, light pollution, asthma and other breathing problems,” the group’s website reads.
The project will span from I-69 to Beltway 8 North, with major improvements planned for I-69 between Spur 527 and I-45. The first of three phases will focus on drainage and infrastructure upgrades.
“Yes, we’ve got critics, but if you’re not doing something and making a difference, then you won’t have critics. But if you’re making a difference, you’re going to have critics. So, let me just acknowledge that it’s a great day in Houston. All great cities have challenges, but we are just addressing ours,” Mayor John Whitmire said.
While TxDOT is moving forward with the project, despite concerns from the public, KPRC 2 spoke with an eminent domain attorney on Wednesday about those who will be affected rights.
Brandon Cofield, who is advising some property owners being impacted, said Houstonians in the project’s pathway do have rights that they should be knowledgeable of.
“Although the Constitution grants certain entities the authority to condemn property, all property owners have rights that are outlined in the Texas Landowners Bill of Rights,” Cofield said.
For more information about your rights as a property owner, visit NHHIP.