As construction on the Tomball Tollway extension—the tolled portion of Hwy. 249—continues, the Texas Department of Transportation will hold a public meeting at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 7, at Magnolia West High School, located at 42202 FM 1774, Magnolia, regarding an additional route around the city of Magnolia.

According to a notice from TxDOT, the project proposes adding a four-lane Magnolia Relief Route around the north side of the city of Magnolia to provide drivers a direct route between FM 1488 west of Magnolia and the proposed Hwy. 249 extension to the east of Magnolia.

According to TxDOT, the 5.4-mile route could affect 11 residential properties, two commercial structures, a stormwater detention pond and a utility facility. The project also requires about 155 acres of additional right of way. Additionally, the route would feature overpasses at FM 1774 and the Union Pacific Railroad and at the proposed extension of Hwy. 249.

Community members can attend Thursday's public hearing to weigh in on the proposed relief route and review a draft environmental assessment of the route. According to TxDOT, guests can review the environmental assessment beginning at 5:30 p.m. The public hearing—during which time community members can submit written and oral comments—begins at 6:30 p.m.

In addition to those shared during the public hearing, written comments regarding the proposed route can be submitted by mail or email by Sept. 22. Comments can be emailed to [email protected].