Study Purpose

The US 59 Corridor is in need of upgraded infrastructure to:

  • Enhance safety & mobility for drivers.
  • Accommodate population and employment growth, which is forecasted to add 75,000 jobs by 2045 primarily located within the urban core and along major arterial facilities such as US 59.
  • Support economic development.
  • Facilitate freight movement for the significant volume of goods passing through Laredo each year.

Study Task

  • Analyze roadway improvement options and develop freeway concepts that connect with other federal and regional roadway projects such as I-69 and the Laredo Outer Loop.
  • Identify critical engineering elements, impacts to the public, and economic feasibility.
  • Determine if the study advances to the next phase of project development, which is environmental review and schematic design. The study was not intended to result in environmental analysis, detailed design, or cost estimates.
Map of the Laredo area showing the US 59 study corridor divided into two segments and the proposed Laredo Outer Loop. Major highways and the study area boundary are labeled.

US 59 Feasibility Study Timeline

The US 59 Feasibility Study developed 46 initial freeway concepts for the corridor in late 2022, 13 of which moved forward for more detailed evaluation. Four proposed concepts, in addition to a no-build concept, are currently recommended for more detailed evaluation and public comment. TxDOT is currently conducting a public meeting and comment period before developing the final Feasibility Study Report, which is anticipated to be complete by the end of the year.

PROJECT TIMELINE

Project Development Process

The next phase in the project development process is environmental review and schematic design. This process depends on many factors including environmental classification and takes an average of two years to complete. Final design, right of way acquisition, and utilities coordination take another two to four years to complete on average. Phased construction cannot begin until full funding is secured. This project is currently partially funded.

ALT TEXT

  • Study Data

    The US 59 Feasibility study team collected a wide range of data for the study area including but not limited to freight movement, growth projections, traffic flow, and safety analysis.

    View Study Data

  • Potential Improvements

    Proposed improvement concepts that are recommended to move forward to the environmental review process.

    View Proposed Improvements

  • Interactive Study Map

    We invite you to leave a comment on the interactive map by dropping a comment marker or drawing a route.

    View Interactive Study Map