North Houston Highway Improvement Project (NHHIP)

METRO is reviewing the document but has not yet released their response to the FEIS. A METRO committee briefing on Nov 14, 2019 included some highlights of major METRO concerns: https://ridemetro.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=5&clip_id=1919&meta_id=45293

TxDOT has released the Final Environmental Impacts Statement and we are in a review period where TxDOt is taking public comment. After that period, TxDOT can adopt a “Record of Decision” which would allow them to process with construction. However, the City of Houston and Harris County have requested that TxDOT study additional alternatives for Segments 1 and 2 and some modifications to the design on Segment 3, TxDOT says they will consider these after the ROD.

We do not see any commitments to this in the FEIS. The Downtown Management District has been working with TxDOT to explore putting structures on top of caps.

According to the FEIS, “The Preferred Alternative provides a structural “cap” over the proposed depressed lanes of I-45 and US 59/I-69 from approximately Commerce Street to Lamar Street. There would also be a structural cap over the depressed lanes of US 59/I-69 between approximately Main Street and Fannin Street, and in the area of the Caroline Street/Wheeler Street intersection. Future use of the structural cap areas for another purpose would require additional development and funding by entities other than TxDOT. (p.2-65 - 2-66) The schematics call out box beams, ventilation fans, and a deck.

The FEIS commits that TxDOT will “Accommodate or replace existing trails and allow for planned future trails.” (Table A-1, item 5) and “Provide aesthetic improvements along Heights Bike Trail between Taylor Street and Main Street. Coordinate with City of Houston to determine improvements.” (Table A-3, item 5)

We do not know of any study that would show the safety impacts of 3 lane feeder roads compared to 2 lane frontage roads, and we have found no discussion in the FEIS of the safety impacts of widening the frontage roads.

According to page 2-4 and 2-5 of the FEIS, the analysis assumes the completion of the Hardy Toll Road Extension to Downtown.

That is the minimum legal requirement under federal law. TxDOT could, at their discretion, extend the period. Both the Mayor of Houston and the Harris County Judge, along with other elected officials, have asked for the period to be extended.

The drawings won’t be final until construction is starting. However, any changes that would change the description and impacts of the project as states in the FEIS would require new environmental evaluation.

TxDOT is required under federal law to submit an FEIS that is complete and accurate, so comments that point out issues with the document should be taken into account. Documenting issues now is critical.