Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I've heard the delay caused by the withdrawal of environmental clearance could be as long as 3-5 years. Why can't construction begin sooner?

A: The Federal Highway Administration requires an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) on 281 North before any capacity can be added. The EIS is a 26-step, extremely detailed process that takes a minimum of three years to complete. No construction to build additional lanes on 281 North can begin until it is complete.

Q: Was there a plan to expand 281 without using toll lanes?

A: Yes, TxDOT had plans to expand 281 from 1604 to Stone Oak Parkway. By 2003, a funding shortfall and rising construction costs forced TxDOT to abandon the original plan for 281 expansion and the money set aside for the project was diverted to other projects.

Q: Is it true that 281 will not be expanded without toll lanes?

A: Yes, unless other money becomes available, the 281 North project was studied for toll lane expansion and removed from consideration for gas tax funding.

Q: How much will it cost to expand 281 North?

A: In 2008, the estimated cost of expanding 281 North, from Loop 1604 to the county line, was $472 million, which includes design, construction, right of way, utility relocation and other related costs.