SAN ANTONIO – Construction is underway on a Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) project designed to reduce congestion and improve safety along Loop 410 near San Pedro Avenue, North Star Mall and the San Antonio International Airport.
KSAT asked TxDOT officials questions submitted by viewers about the project.
What problems is TxDOT trying to fix with 410 at San Pedro?
The project will relocate ramps to better match traffic flow, improve access roads and upgrade several intersections, said Jennifer Serold, a TxDOT spokesperson.
Loop 410 in the North Central area is one of the most congested corridors in San Antonio and has one of the city’s highest crash rates. Nearly four crashes occur there each day, Serold said.
Serold said TxDOT expects congestion to increase over the next 10 to 20 years without improvements.
Why is the project happening now?
TxDOT identified the area near the airport as a location where current congestion and crash rates require improvements before traffic increases further, Serold said.
Construction will begin between West Avenue and San Pedro Avenue. The work will be completed in phases, with crews expected to remain in that area for several months and possibly close to a year.
Will speed limits change?
Yes. The speed limit in the construction zone will drop from 55 mph to 45 mph, Serold said. TxDOT is asking drivers to slow down, watch for changes and remain alert around orange barrels, barricades and increased signage.
Will access to North Star Mall and nearby businesses be affected?
TxDOT said access to North Star Mall, Best Buy and other businesses will remain open throughout construction.
When the project is complete, drivers coming from McCullough Avenue will be able to access Loop 410, take an immediate right onto the access road and use a turnaround to travel west toward the North Star Mall area. That could reduce the number of traffic lights and stops for some drivers, Serold said.
Will there be more barricades and marked closures?
Drivers will see orange barrels, barricades and additional signs throughout the work zone. TxDOT officials urged motorists to pay closer attention, slow down and use extra caution.
Most closures on Loop 410 will occur overnight on weekdays. Officials do not expect the project to affect airport travelers.
The project is expected to be completed in 2029 and will extend from West Avenue to Broadway along Loop 410 on both sides of U.S. Highway 281.
