New SH 99 Grand Parkway segments open early

HOUSTON - Traveling on the northwest side and north side of Houston will get a lot easier and more convenient this weekend as the Texas Department of Transportation has opened the newest segments of the Grand Parkway from US 290 to IH 45 as part of the completion of Segments F-1 and F-2.

These segments span approximately 24 miles from US 290 to I-45 North, and include direct connectors from SH 99 eastbound to I-45 northbound, and I-45 southbound to SH 99 westbound. Improvements to these important roadways are critical to the region's continued mobility and economic vitality.

Crews on Friday (February 5) began the process of moving traffic barrels and verifying the safety of all traffic movements along the two segments of the Grand Parkway.

Drivers will now have access to this newly completed roadway connecting the rapidly developing areas of Cypress, Tomball and The Woodlands. TxDOT will be providing one week of toll-free use on Segments F-1 and F-2 prior to tolling beginning on Monday, February 15, 2016. Thereafter, motorists can utilize a TxTAG or EZTAG to take advantage of a shorter commute.

"By providing much-needed infrastructure to keep Houston's growing population moving, TxDOT continues its commitment to supporting economic growth and development across the Lone Star State," said Jeff Moseley, Texas Transportation Commission Vice Chairman.

The SH 99 Grand Parkway has been in the planning stages since the early 1960s and the delivery of these newest segments was made possible through coordinated working relationships with Harris and Montgomery Counties. Construction on the project began in 2013 and is one of largest design-build projects TxDOT has undertaken. Segment G - the segment between I-45 and US 59 - will open in March.

For more information, contact the TxDOT Houston District Public Information Office at (713) 802-5076.