Construction has begun on the new Eastern extension of the George Bush Tollway, which will eventually connect State Highway 78 in Garland – where the existing Tollway ends – with I-30 by late 2011.
The Eastern Extension is an approximately $1 billion, 9.9-mile, six-lane toll road extension which will connect to I-30, just West of Bass Pro Drive.
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) will construct a bridge across Lake Ray Hubbard and the IH-30 interchange, according to the plan.
Thus far, according to the North Texas Tollway Authority, work has seen the removal of structures, trees and vegetation within the turnpike right of way, parallel with Liberty Grove Road north of State Highway 66 and along Kirby Road south of SH 66.
Utility lines along Kirby Road are also being moved.
A public meeting is being held Nov. 20, at 7 pm, to update citizens and provide a question and answer session at the Rowlett Community Centre, 5300 Main Street in Rowlett.
Afterward, there will be an “open house” venue to give citizens a chance to view maps, diagrams and documents. Participants will be able to speak with project representatives from the North Texas Tollway Authority (NTTA) and their consultants about project specifics.
According to Rowlett Mayor John E. Harper, government leaders want to keep residents well-informed about the progress of the construction.
“We encourage citizens to attend this meeting to get a better idea of what to expect during this massive construction project,” he said. “Although it will take approximately three years to complete, it will bring immeasurable future growth to Rowlett.”
Rockwall Rocks! 