The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) confirmed that demolition of the FM 835 bridge, located just east of Lubbock’s Loop 289, will commence Sunday, November 15. The work is part of a larger improvement program that will continue through late spring 2027.
Detour routes and traffic impacts
Motorists traveling through the area should expect temporary delays. TxDOT will redirect traffic onto FM 40 (4th Street) and FM 1729 while the bridge is taken down. In addition, Olive Avenue will be closed; drivers will be routed onto the Loop 289 frontage roads and 58th Street.
TxDOT has posted a map showing the closed lanes and the detour routes. The map is also available as a PDF on the agency’s website for anyone who wants a detailed view of the changes.
Why the bridge is being rebuilt
The existing bridge shoulders are only eight feet wide on each side. The improvement plan will expand the westbound shoulder to ten feet and the eastbound shoulder to sixteen feet, providing a safer recovery area for disabled vehicles and larger emergency‑response lanes.
Beyond the shoulder widening, the project will raise the bridge’s elevation, improve drainage, and upgrade the roadway on FM 835 and Olive Avenue. These changes are intended to boost traffic flow, reduce flooding after heavy rains, and extend the lifespan of the crossing.
Timeline and expectations
The demolition phase begins this weekend and will last several weeks. After the bridge is removed, construction crews will install temporary traffic controls while the new structure is fabricated off‑site. The full reconstruction, including the widened shoulders and drainage upgrades, is scheduled for completion in late spring 2027.
TxDOT officials emphasized that the temporary inconvenience is outweighed by the long‑term benefits to Lubbock drivers. “Once the project is finished, motorists will experience smoother travel, better safety margins, and fewer weather‑related closures,” a TxDOT spokesperson said.
What residents can do
Drivers are encouraged to plan alternate routes, allow extra travel time, and stay informed through TxDOT’s website or local news updates. The agency will post signage well in advance of the closures and will monitor traffic conditions throughout the demolition.
Community members who have questions about the project can contact the Lubbock District Office of TxDOT at (806) 555‑1234 or visit the agency’s online portal for real‑time updates.
Looking ahead
When the improvements are complete, the FM 835 corridor is expected to handle higher traffic volumes with greater efficiency, supporting Lubbock’s continued growth and the safety of its families. The project reflects a broader commitment by state officials to invest in critical infrastructure that benefits everyday commuters and local businesses alike.
Original reporting: News/Talk 790 KFYO (Lubbock) — read the source article.
