The Grand Parkway / SH 99 from Eastex Freeway in New Caney to SH 146 in Baytown have opened to traffic!
It was closed for most of the morning hours, because several approvals needed to happen before crews gradually opened the highway. Officials told us, the new stretch of pavement should open to drivers before the day ended. Once open, folks can use it for free until the tolls begin at midnight on Saturday, May 21.
Recommended Videos
The ribbon cutting ceremony took place on Wednesday, May 18, but it was still considered a construction zone until lanes opened on Thursday.
Work started on this section of tollway back in 2018, and residents in the area are thrilled to see it finally open, with comments on Facebook reading:
- “...Woooo Hooooo best news I’ve heard all day! I go that way tomorrow so hope it helps!” Wendy Foster
- “I’m so excited! We travel north to Hwy 59 and I45 often. This will cut our travel time for sure!” Karen Browne Johnson
This project spans from Harris, Montgomery, Liberty and Chambers county, marking the continuation of the construction of this 184 mile highway loop around the Greater Houston area -- which by the way -- makes it the biggest highway loop in the nation!
I know some will be tempted to zoom through on this brand spankin’ new pavement, but remember BE SAFE! Drive carefully and stay off your cell phones.
Drive safely my friends :)
KPRC 2 traffic expert
Have a traffic question? I can help.
What do you want to know about Houston traffic? Ask here! And if you want your question answered live on TV, send me a video of yourself asking your traffic question in a private message on my Facebook page here!
Airports
Men and women are up all night long, building the new sterile corridor connecting the D West Pier (currently under construction) to the existing Terminal D and Bush Intercontinental Airport. Leave with extra time if you’re catching a flight at Bush Airport, construction could slow you down.
Recent questions
Construction closures
- The third weekend of Southwest Freeway closures kicks off again on Friday. US 59 in both directions will shut down at 610 the West Loop.
- Also, if you’re headed outbound (south) on 59, the Beechnut exit is now open. No need to make the U-turn at Bissonnet anymore.
Five big projects
Get your traffic news, maps and route planner 24/7 at Click2Houston.com/traffic.