AASHTO Journal, 3 January 2014
The Texas Department of Transportation recently opened a new toll road in the Houston area that will speed up trips for drivers by bypassing local roads, eliminating the need to stop at traffic lights and congested segments, and keeping drivers from having to travel miles out of their way to make various connections.
TxDOT’s new Segment E of the Grand Parkway (also known as SH 99) is a 15-mile, four-lane toll road that links the communities of Katy and Cypress, providing smooth and easy travel between I-10 and US 290. Drivers making this connection before the toll road’s construction experienced congestion and had to travel a more inconvenient route. Section E from I-10 to US 290 is the newest section of the planned 185-mile Grand Parkway circling the Houston area. At this time, Segments D and I-2 are the only other portions open to traffic. Construction on segments F-1, F-2 and G began July 2013 and could be completed by late 2015.
“The SH 99 roadway will help residents in the fast-growing communities west of Houston get around the metro area faster and more conveniently,” said TxDOT Executive Director Phil Wilson in a statement.
In order to introduce drivers to the new toll road, TxDOT is offering free usage through Jan. 31. After that date, drivers will need a prepaid toll account (TxTag, EZ TAG, or TollTag) in order to use the toll road, as the collection of the toll will all be done electronically.
The cost of the toll on the Grand Parkway will depend on the type of vehicle and where each driver enters and exits the toll road. A two-axle vehicle, for example, will pay $2.88 when traveling each way from I-10 to US 290.
“By providing much-needed infrastructure to keep Houston’s growing population moving, TxDOT continues its commitment to support economic growth and development across the Lone Star State,” said Texas Transportation Commissioner Jeff Moseley.
Additional information on the entire Grand Parkway project is available here.