The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) broke ground for the construction of the I-20 widening project in Midland/Odessa. This initiative, celebrated with a groundbreaking ceremony on May 13, aims to enhance connectivity and provide ease to the region's traffic congestion.
According to TxDOT, the $424 million project will bring improvements to the I-20 corridor in Midland/Odessa. The effort is a result of a corridor study initiated by the TxDOT Odessa District and the Permian Basin MPO (PBMPO) in 2016. The study focused on a 40-mile stretch of I-20 from west of FM 1936 to east of FM 1208, aiming to develop a detailed improvement plan.
Features of the project include:
- Addition of Main Lanes: The entire corridor will see the addition of three through main lanes.
- Interchanges and Ramps: New interchanges will be constructed, and existing ramps will be reconfigured to enhance traffic flow.
- Frontage Roads: Conversion of frontage roads from two-way to one-way operation from Business (BI) 20 in Ector County to BI 20 in Midland County.
- Enhanced Connectivity: Additional U-turns and cross-overs at interchanges will be introduced.
- Improved Safety and Drainage: The project will focus on improving safety, reducing congestion, and enhancing drainage systems.
- Design Standards: Updated design standards will be implemented throughout the corridor, including increased bridge clearance.
- Minimal Right-of-Way Impact: The design aims to limit the need for additional right-of-way and to accommodate future growth.