The effort began nearly two years ago, in early 2019. However, George said, due to utility delays—as lines had to be relocated before construction began—the first piece of new pavement was not poured until February 2020.
Over the last 10 months, contractors have worked to construct a new northbound lane and a new southbound lane between Lexington Boulevard and Brooks Street. During different phases of construction, various lanes were closed as new sidewalks and traffic lights were installed and the outermost lanes were added.
George said these extra lanes are needed to increase mobility, ease congestion and provide a safe commute for residents of one of the state’s fastest-growing counties. The project has cost TxDOT $6.4 million and the city of Sugar Land $1.1 million, George said.
“The additional lanes will help mobility by moving more motorists through the area at a faster pace, thus reducing congestion,” George said in an email. “Commuters and shoppers will reap the benefits of the completed project with a faster commute, a safer commute and new pedestrian facilities.”
George said TxDOT contractors have benefited from having less traffic on the roads due to the coronavirus pandemic, which allowed for some projects to be accelerated and has minimized the effects on commuters and residents.
The project encompasses the stretch of Hwy. 6 in front of the Sugar Land Town Square and First Colony Mall entrance, two popular shopping and dining hubs within the city.
Sugar Land Town Square management said that while the development has numerous entry and exit points for easy access, the completed expansion of Hwy. 6 will only help.
“We appreciate infrastructure improvements that will further enhance access to the village for the surrounding community and visitors to more easily enjoy its increasingly diverse dining options, expanding retail and entertainment offerings, events, and amenities,” said Matt Ragan of Rebees, a management company for Sugar Land Town Square, in an email.
