DFW is permanently under construction. Here's what's active right now and how it affects your commute.
Major active projects:
I-635 East (LBJ East):
- Adding managed lanes from US-75 to I-30
- Timeline: 2024-2028 (yes, 4 more years)
- Impact: Reduced lanes, shifting patterns. Nighttime full closures common.
- Detour: Use I-30 or surface streets through Garland/Mesquite.
- Source: txdot.gov, lbjeast.com
I-35E (Southern Gateway):
- Rebuilding the I-35E/I-30 interchange and widening south to Ovilla
- Timeline: 2023-2027
- Impact: Lane reductions through Oak Cliff and south Dallas. Nightmare at peak hours.
- Detour: Zang Blvd or Beckley Ave through Oak Cliff.
- Source: txdot.gov
US-380 (Collin County):
- Widening from Denton to McKinney
- Timeline: 2024-2028
- Impact: This road is barely functional right now. Avoid during rush hour.
- Detour: Frontier Pkwy or Prosper Trail for east-west.
- Source: my380.com
I-35W (Fort Worth):
- Ongoing widening from downtown to Eagle Mountain
- Impact: Lane shifts, reduced shoulders. Moderate delays.
- Source: txdot.gov
Where to check for real-time updates:
- DriveTexas.org — TxDOT real-time conditions
- Waze — community-reported construction zones
- @TxDOTDallas and @TxDOTFortWorth on Twitter/X
Sources:
- TxDOT.gov project tracker
- DriveTexas.org
- Individual project websites
Which construction project is ruining YOUR commute?
I-35E through Oak Cliff is brutal. The Zang Blvd detour works but adds 10 minutes and way more traffic lights.