Two transportation projects by the Montrose Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone are slated to start construction in late 2026, including the controversial West Alabama Street reconstruction project and a streetlight audit aimed at identifying gaps in lighting.
Check out these three local road projects going on in the area.
1. West Alabama Street reconstruction
Project: West Alabama Street from Spur 527 to Shepherd Drive in the Montrose neighborhood will undergo a full roadway reconstruction that includes new sidewalks, replacement of existing traffic signals, drainage improvements and street lighting.
Update: The Montrose TIRZ board held a virtual open house on the project Aug. 3, with the comment period ending Aug. 17. Results will be shared at a later date.
- Timeline: Late 2026-2028
- Cost: $28.5 million
- Funding source: Montrose TIRZ
2. Streetlight Audit
Project: The Montrose TIRZ board will conduct an audit of streetlights throughout the neighborhood to identify gaps in where lighting isn’t present or is too far apart to address safety concerns.
Update: Board officials unanimously approved the study during the July 20 meeting that will involve coordinating with CenterPoint Energy to provide the TIRZ with all locations of their existing streetlights.
- Timeline: Starting in August
- Cost: $16,444
- Funding source: Montrose TIRZ
3. I-45 North Freeway
Project: The I-45 North Houston Highway Improvement Project is a $13 billion Texas Department of Transportation project that involves widening I-45 from downtown to Beltway 8 and involves multiple changes, including new routes, drainage and lane changes.
Update: Bridge repairs were completed at Crosstimbers Street in July.
- Timeline: July 10-July 11, 2026
- Cost: TBD
- Funding source: TxDOT
