Road User Cost Analysis: I-45 Gulf Freeway at Beltway 8 Interchange (CSJ 500-03-382) (TTI-1994-13)

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is presently reconstructing the I-45 Gulf Freeway from Almeda-Genoa to Choate Road (CSJ #500-03-382). This effort provides for mainlane widening, extension of the HOV lane, ramp reversal, and signal installation. Construction is expected to be completed in late 1995.|TxDOT is presently negotiating a price with the construction contractor for the installation of four footings for direct connectors from I-45 to Beltway 8. Two scenarios have been submitted: 1) provides for a December 1995 completion; and 2) provides for a September 1995 completion and an increased cost of $175,000. Completing the latter effort would allow TxDOT to open the HOV lane and the freeway mainlane improvements three to four months earlier than scheduled. The capacity of the freeway would be significantly increased due to an additional lane, 12-foot lane widths, and the addition of inside/outside shoulders. TxDOT has requested that the Texas Transportation Institute (TTI) complete a road user cost analysis associated with the proposed field change.