What we reported Several portions of Hwy. 290 construction progressed in its fifth year of construction, but flooding and utility relocations caused delays in 2016. The highway is being widened to varying widths of three to five lanes between Loop 610 and FM 2920.

The latest Utility relocations continue for the bridge over Hwy. 6. Construction will begin this year, and the project is scheduled for completion in 2018.

What’s next The Texas Department of Transportation and the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County are working together to solve congestion issues along Hwy. 290. TxDOT's design team is exploring options, and the two agencies are discussing a new option. Final details of the plan will be decided early this year. Although certain portions of the expansion project are expected to be completed in 2017, those sections will not be open to drivers until the entire project is completed in 2018.

This story is one update from The January Issue. View the full list of 10 things to look for here.