San Antonio, February 10, 2026
The Texas Department of Transportation has delayed the extensive closure of a portion of Interstate 35 in San Antonio, now scheduled to start in late 2026. This $25.9 million repair project aims to improve safety and infrastructure over a 5.5-mile stretch of I-35 and I-10 in downtown San Antonio. Motorists are advised to prepare for long-term traffic impacts and consider alternate routes due to expected congestion during construction.
San Antonio, Texas: TxDOT Delays Years-Long I-35 Closure
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has announced a delay in the extensive closure of a section of Interstate 35 (I-35) in San Antonio, initially scheduled to begin this month. The closure, which is part of a comprehensive $25.9 million repair project, is now set to commence in late 2026. This project aims to enhance safety and infrastructure along a 5.5-mile stretch of I-35 and I-10 through downtown San Antonio.
Project Overview
The I-35 and I-10 downtown repair project involves significant improvements, including:
- Resurfacing roadways
- Repairing structures
- Replacing bridge joints
- Demolishing and reconstructing the I-35 exit ramp to Brooklyn and McCullough avenues
These enhancements are expected to be completed in 2026, with some phases overlapping. Most work will take place on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though occasional night and weekend work is anticipated.
Impact on Traffic
Motorists should prepare for long-term traffic impacts, detours, and potential congestion during the construction period. Commuters are advised to plan ahead and consider alternate routes through downtown while the upper-level lanes remain inaccessible. Updates on additional closures and changes will be announced through TxDOT’s official channels.
Background
In previous years, TxDOT has undertaken various construction projects on I-35 in San Antonio, including:
- Reducing southbound I-35 to two lanes between Martin Street and Cesar Chavez Boulevard in February 2025 for joint repairs
- Implementing month-long closures along I-35 in February 2025 to accommodate construction activities
- Addressing bridge joint replacements on I-35 north at South Laredo Street in July 2025, causing delays downtown
These efforts are part of TxDOT’s ongoing commitment to improving transportation infrastructure and safety across the state.
Key Features of the I-35 and I-10 Downtown Repair Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Project Cost | $25.9 million |
| Project Area | 5.5-mile stretch of I-35 and I-10 through downtown San Antonio |
| Improvements | Resurfacing roadways, repairing structures, replacing bridge joints, reconstructing I-35 exit ramp to Brooklyn and McCullough avenues |
| Expected Completion | 2026 |
| Work Schedule | Weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with occasional night and weekend work |
| Traffic Impact | Long-term traffic impacts, detours, and potential congestion during construction |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When will the I-35 closure in San Antonio begin?
The closure is now set to commence in late 2026, as part of a comprehensive $25.9 million repair project.
What improvements are included in the I-35 and I-10 downtown repair project?
The project involves resurfacing roadways, repairing structures, replacing bridge joints, and reconstructing the I-35 exit ramp to Brooklyn and McCullough avenues.
How will the construction affect traffic in downtown San Antonio?
Motorists should prepare for long-term traffic impacts, detours, and potential congestion during the construction period. Commuters are advised to plan ahead and consider alternate routes through downtown while the upper-level lanes remain inaccessible.
What is the expected completion date for the I-35 and I-10 downtown repair project?
The project is expected to be completed in 2026, with some phases overlapping. Most work will take place on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though occasional night and weekend work is anticipated.
How can I stay updated on the construction progress and any additional closures?
Updates on additional closures and changes will be announced through TxDOT’s official channels, including their website and social media accounts.
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