The FM 646 widening project will continue to undergo design work through 2023 and is scheduled to bid for construction in May 2024, said Danny Perez, Texas Department of Transportation public information officer.

The estimated cost for the segment of FM 646 from Edmund Way to FM 1266 was originally about $34 million but as of January is estimated at $44 million. The estimated cost for the segment from FM 1266 to FM 3436 was originally $22 million but as of January is estimated at $25 million, Perez said.

“Costs have increased due to inflation but are still within budget,” Perez said.

The project also includes a proposed overpass at the Union Pacific Corp. railroad that intersects with FM 646 east of Hwy. 3.

The project aims to increase the road’s capacity by widening it from two to four lanes as well as improving mobility and safety, Perez said. Sidewalks for pedestrians are also planned to be added in the segment from Edmund Way to FM 1266.