T-DOT said the plan for the Baxter improvements along Interstate 40 always included at least three years of pre-construction preparation.
The project consists of adding turn lanes on Baxter Road, replacing the I-40 bridges, and improving ramps. Many Baxter residents have wondered why T-DOT is taking so long to get the project started after the announcement more than two years ago. T-DOT Regional Communications Officer Rae Anne Bradley said the project is actually on track.
“Permitting, right of way acquisition, all of those things typically take about three to five years to work through all of those,” Bradley said. “You know, in addition to that, this project also includes coordination with federal agencies because it does occur on the interstate system.”
Bradley said the project will aim to address capacity issues and prepare the corridor for future demand. Bradley said T-DOT expects to begin construction sometime in 2027.
“The project is fully underway and is progressing through all of its necessary phases as planned to complete the remaining steps required before construction can begin,” Bradley said. “So, again, these include geotechnical exploration and analysis, development of the detailed roadway and structural designs, Development of signal and lighting plans, acquiring right-of-way, environmental permitting, and coordination with utility providers. So in 2027, the project will be advertised for contractors to bid on, and we’ll proceed into the construction phase.”
Bradley said T-DOT is committed to minimizing traffic impacts during construction. Bradley said the plan is to replace the bridges in phases so drivers will not have to detour off of I-40 while the project is underway. However, Bradley said Baxter Road will experience some lane closures.
“Some detours may be necessary to allow for the overhead work on those bridges to occur,” Bradley said. “Obviously, we will communicate all of that information well in advance, those traffic impacts, so that drivers can be aware and plan accordingly.”