State and city leaders officially kicked off the $888 million project with a ceremonial groundbreaking just blocks away from businesses hoping to survive its construction and the detours surrounding it. <\/p>\n
The work will provide better east-west traffic movement between I-35E and I-45 in Dallas.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s going to go from six lanes total, main lanes, to 12 lanes,\u201d TxDOT Dallas District spokesperson Tony Hartzel said. \u201cSo, we are adding some capacity. We are improving some street grid connections, both above the highway and the ramping off into downtown and other areas.\u201d<\/p>\n
Rail crossings will also be improved, along with reconnecting some city streets and reconnecting some southern neighborhoods.<\/p>\n
\u201cEnhance the fabric integration with the Cedars area and downtown to maximize opportunity for the residents, economic development, safety, accessibility, and connectivity,\u201d North Central Texas Council of Governments Director of Transportation Michael Morris said.<\/p>\n
Jean-Bart is just hoping his business can survive the detours long enough to benefit from the changes.<\/p>\n
\u201cFor two years, I don\u2019t know,\u201d Jean-Bart said. \u201cYou know this city has supported me for 15 years, and I hope they can support us throughout these two years of bridgeless business.\u201d<\/p>\n
The project is scheduled to be completed in 2031.<\/p>\n