Since construction began in 2011 on a project to widen Hwy. 290 from Loop 610 to the Grand Parkway, the number of crashes along the roadway has increased by more than 600 incidents.

Although Texas Department of Transportation officials said it is difficult to say whether the increase is directly related to construction, it does make driver awareness and attention to safety more important than before.

“In many areas the lane width has been reduced and shoulders removed, which gives the contractor room to safely construct the new main lanes and bridges,” TxDOT spokesperson Karen Othon said. “Lanes can shift multiple times throughout the year as the contractor makes progress, and it is important that drivers pay attention to the signs for any changes.”

To help drivers navigate the changes, TxDOT has provided signage at entrances where there is no acceleration lane; performed work during non-peak hours; repainted striping and lane buttons; and provided signage for lane-direction changes.