The city of Houston will spend $142 million to build a series of grade separations along a railroad in the West Belt Subdivision. Currently in the design phase, construction is expected to begin in 2029.
The West Belt Railroad Grade Separation project will build a total of three grade separations, targeting the Commerce Street/Navigation Boulevard and York Street/Sampson Street areas. These efforts will help make rail crossings safer for travelers and reduce noise for local communities while enhancing traffic flow.
The separators will either go under or over the existing tracks. In addition, the city will close four at-grade crossings that have proven to be exceedingly dangerous for travelers. Once finished, the city anticipates that the area will be quieter and have reduced vehicle emissions.
The 9-mile West Belt Subdivision is a major freight rail line, making it both a hazard and nuisance to surrounding neighborhoods. With the removal of a total of six at-grade crossings, the city will create a sealed freight rail corridor while alleviating traffic congestion.
Photo by Brett Sayles from Pexels
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