I-45 Rayford/Sawdust Overpass Opens March 18-19

**I-45 Rayford/Sawdust Overpass Project Nears Finish Line, Major Openings Set for This Week**

**THE WOODLANDS, TX – March 15, 2024** – Years of construction, detours, and anticipation are culminating this week as the multi-year I-45 at Rayford/Sawdust Road overpass project in The Woodlands is finally nearing its full completion. Montgomery County Precinct 3 Commissioner James Noack has announced specific opening dates for the remaining critical sections, promising significant relief for one of the county’s most notorious traffic bottlenecks.

Drivers can expect the northbound I-45 frontage road to open this coming Monday, March 18, 2024. To assist with the morning commute, there will be a temporary opening from approximately 9 a.m. to noon before the road closes again for final preparations and its permanent opening later that day. Following this, the new northbound I-45 main lanes exit ramp is scheduled to open on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, around 9 a.m. The southbound frontage road and the new southbound I-45 main lanes entrance ramp have already been operational for some time, providing a smoother experience in that direction. The entire ambitious project is now expected to be fully completed by the end of March 2024.

This undertaking has been a long time coming for Montgomery County residents and commuters. First announced in 2017, construction began in 2018 with an initial target completion of mid-2020. However, the complex nature of the work – including navigating existing I-45 main lanes, resolving numerous utility conflicts, enduring various weather delays, and the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic – pushed that timeline back considerably. The original estimated cost of $66 million also climbed to an updated $75.5 million due to these unforeseen complexities and extended construction periods.

Commissioner Noack, a longtime and vocal advocate for this crucial infrastructure improvement, emphasized the project’s transformative role. “This intersection has been a source of immense frustration and a major safety concern for drivers for far too long,” Noack stated. “Seeing it finally come to fruition is incredibly gratifying. This project isn’t just about moving cars; it’s about enhancing safety, improving quality of life for our residents, and supporting the economic vitality of our community.”

The new design fundamentally alters traffic flow at the intersection, directly addressing the problematic “weave” condition that previously forced drivers to cross I-45 main lanes from the frontage road to access the overpass. This change is expected to drastically reduce congestion and collision potential, which were frequent occurrences. A key addition is also a direct connector ramp from the southbound Hardy Toll Road directly onto the northbound I-45 frontage road, further streamlining access and alleviating pressure on other routes.

“The Texas Department of Transportation’s investment in this area underscores their commitment to improving the state’s transportation network and ensuring the safety of all Texans,” said a TxDOT spokesperson, highlighting the significant state funding. “Projects of this magnitude are complex, but the long-term benefits in terms of safety and mobility are invaluable.”

Local businesses and residents have eagerly awaited the completion. “It’s been tough with the construction, but we’ve always known the end result would be worth it,” said Maria Rodriguez, owner of a nearby coffee shop. “Easier access will definitely be a boost for us and for everyone who lives and works around here.”

As the final sections open, officials urge drivers to exercise caution and pay close attention to new signage and traffic patterns. Familiar routes may have changed, and adjusting to the improved flow will take time.

For more information on the project and other updates from Commissioner Noack’s office, visit mctxpct3.org. Details on state transportation initiatives can be found at txdot.gov/houston.