Plans to begin construction that will widen I-35 from Dallas to Denton are being made after almost a decade of discussion about the project. Major steps like planning environmental hearings, setting timetables for buying property and public hearings, and approval of a design for the project are being taken to begin construction in 2012. Officials say this project is critical to relieving gridlock in the area since about 350,000 cars are expected to use the highway by 2025. This $4.3 billion construction project will cover 28 miles and will be separated into three sections. While some of the plans to pay for the project have been made, more plans will be determined over time. The 12-mile stretch in Lewisville will cost $2.25 billion and will be paid partially through the use of State Highway 121 toll revenue and Denton County bond money that has been set aside for the project. Possibilities for the remaining $1 billion cost for this section include pass-through financing and a comprehensive development agreement.

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