Construction along Interstate 35 in Austin is set to intensify in 2026 as the Texas Department of Transportation advances several large-scale projects under its MyMobility35 program.
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The initiative includes three major efforts — I-35 Capital Express North, Central and South — representing billions of dollars in reconstruction, roadway expansion and multimodal improvements across the Austin region. Work is already underway on all three segments, with additional phases scheduled to begin or accelerate in the coming year.
The I-35 Capital Express North project has entered a new construction stage focused on widening frontage roads to three lanes within the project corridor. This work follows the completion of main lane bridge deck construction at several locations, including Rundberg Lane, Little Walnut Creek, Walnut Creek, Wells Branch Parkway and Grand Avenue Parkway. The upgrades are intended to improve traffic flow while supporting long-term capacity needs.
Farther south, crews on the I-35 Capital Express South project are continuing work on elevated managed lanes. As of mid-December, dozens of bent caps and support columns had already been completed, with more scheduled throughout 2026. Recent milestones include beam installation over the Stassney Lane Bridge and progress on elevated lane panels, laying the groundwork for future traffic shifts.
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The most complex portion of the MyMobility35 program — the $4.5 billion Capital Express Central project — will see multiple construction advances next year.
At the Martin Luther King Jr. Bridge, crews are preparing to install bridge beams before demolishing and rebuilding the south side of the structure in early 2026. The reconstructed bridge will be wider and include added safety buffers separating pedestrians from vehicles.
In the Lady Bird Lake area, additional bypass lanes are scheduled to open, while work will expand on shared-use paths along I-35 frontage roads. Construction of a new pedestrian bridge spanning Lady Bird Lake is also expected to begin by mid-2026, improving connectivity between east and west Austin.
Another major focus area involves drainage tunnel and pump station construction. Excavation has already been completed at several locations, with additional drop shafts and tunneling work planned throughout 2026. Tunnel boring machines are expected to arrive by spring, marking a significant milestone for flood mitigation efforts tied to the corridor.
Together, the projects aim to modernize one of Texas’ most heavily traveled highways while adding pedestrian, bicycle and transit infrastructure. TxDOT officials note that while construction will continue to affect travel patterns, the improvements are designed to support long-term safety, mobility and regional growth.
More information about the MyMobility35 program and upcoming construction timelines is available through TxDOT’s Austin District.
Originally reported by Kelsey Thompson, Austin Digital Reporter in My San Antonio.
