SH 99 Grand Parkway Expansion Proposed

Expansion of SH 99 (the Grand Parkway) through New Territory may start as early as 2010 with a new proposal by TxDot to fund the project through toll revenues collected at various electronic gantries (not booths).
The project , which consists of constructing 4 lanes (two lanes in each direction) and 12 overpasses from Franz Road to U.S. 59 in Sugar Land, is roughly estimated to cost $200 million.
“Without tolling, construction would be delayed considerably while we wait for state funds,” said a TxDot spokesperson. “Traffic demands have outpaced traditional finance mechanisms.”
The Grand Parkway was planned as a means to provide an additional evacuation route, an alternative route around the city, and to accommodate traffic increases and growth, said the spokesperson. It was originally designed for six lanes in 1987 when they conducted a traffic study of the area, and although Tx Dot plans to build four lanes in this next phase, they may build two more lanes (one in each direction) if warranted in the future, they said. TxDot completed construction of the existing frontage roads in 1995.
According to a preliminary schedule, TxDot may complete their environmental assessment next year, finalize their design in 2009, begin construction in 2010, and complete the project in 2014.
Most of the existing lanes will serve as frontage roads or ramps onto the new main lanes. Only the new main lanes and overpasses will have tolls and motorists will be able to travel the frontage roads at no cost, said the spokesperson. There will be overpasses at West River Park Drive, New Territory Blvd. and a very long one for Sandhill, US 90-A, and FM 1464. The overpasses will be built one level higher than grade level, so the one at 90-A will go over the railroad track.
TxDot will do a noise analysis as part of their environmental assessment. Sound walls may not be warranted or feasible, they said.
TxDot is receiving public input on the proposal until June 8. Please send your comments to hou-piowebmail@dot.state.tx.us