Another interstate segment of the I-69 corridor that will eventually connect the Lower Rio Grande Valley to the national interstate system is now under contract. TxDOT awarded a $126 million contract in August to convert 8 more miles of US 77 in Kenedy County to freeway. This project extends north from the 11.6 mile Kenedy project started recently. Together they cover 19.8 miles of the remaining 44 miles needed to cross Kenedy County and represent a $317 million investment in I-69E. Funding has been allocated in the 10-year 2025 Unified Transportation Program for several additional projects needed to complete I-69E in Kenedy and Kleberg Counties. That includes the Riviera Relief Route that is expected to go to contract in the coming year.

Local officials from Rio Grande Valley communities joined in a July 31st groundbreaking celebration for Project 1 that will add 11.6 more miles to Interstate 69 East in Kenedy County. Speakers included Kenedy County Judge Charles Burns, State Senator Morgan LaMantia, Cameron County Judge Eddie Trevino, Harlingen Mayor Norma Sepulveda, Cameron County Commissioner David Garza, Ana Maria Garcia representing Sen. John Cornyn, Pharr District Engineer Pete Alvarez and Jennifer Shepard for the Alliance.

Kenedy County Judge Charles Burns

Senator Morgan LaMantia and Pharr District Engineer Pete Alvarez
Senator LaMantia, whose district includes more I-69 miles than any other senator, noted that Rio Grande Valley leaders have been pushing for connection to the national interstate system for decades and called on TxDOT to complete the work. “Until the last mile is done we’re not done.” Judge Burns said the county of 300 population welcomes the extension of I-69E across Kenedy County.

Judge Trevino praised the years of leadership and persistence of Rio Grande Valley officials noting that Cameron County has been investing county funds in I-69 development because it is crucial to the Rio Grande Valley and all of South Texas. He believes project funding is long overdue and is confident TxDOT will find the money to complete the interstate to connect to I-37 at Corpus Christi.
Cameron County Judge Eddie Trevino