Repairs are set to commence on the U.S. 290 flyover in North Austin following the emergence of a viral video that highlighted a significant gap between two sections of the overpass at I-35. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has assured the public that the bridge remains safe and structurally sound despite concerns raised by the footage.
The video quickly gained traction on social media, prompting discussions among drivers about the safety of the flyover. Crews were observed working at the site recently, and while TxDOT has confirmed there are no immediate safety issues, road closures are scheduled to begin next week.
Local resident Alex Marshall expressed his concerns, stating, “Just see that crack, and you can see the road and the cars going over it every day. And it’s getting pretty bad.” Many residents have taken to platforms like Facebook and Instagram to discuss the situation.
Business owner Natasha Bajic noted the impact of the video on public perception, saying, “I’ve seen it a lot on threads, some on Facebook, Instagram, of course, so people are definitely talking about it.” She also remarked on her surprise upon noticing the gap during an early morning visit to her studio.
TxDOT clarified that what drivers are observing is a bridge joint designed for expansion and contraction. The current gap has exceeded its intended design, necessitating the upcoming repairs. Nearby business owners remain vigilant, with Marshall admitting, “When I see the big garbage trucks or the dump trucks, the heavy ones, I swear, every time I see it get over, I’m like, eek, you know, I don’t want that to break through.”
Bajic expressed her relief that the issue is being addressed, stating, “I’m glad my tax dollars are going to fixing it versus just ignoring it. I need my customers to be able to get here safely and leave safely.”
TxDOT has been monitoring the bridge’s bearing pads and joints for several years to ensure they remain structurally sound, emphasizing that the situation does not pose a safety threat. The planned repairs will involve a $768,000 project aimed at fixing the bearings and joints.
Upcoming Road Closures
Starting next week, TxDOT will close the westbound U.S. 290 east flyover to southbound I-35 overnight from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., Sunday through Thursday, for several weeks. Drivers on westbound U.S. 290 will be directed to take the I-35 Waco exit and turn left at the light to access southbound I-35.
Once the westbound repairs are completed, crews will shift their focus to the northbound I-35 to eastbound U.S. 290 flyover. Detour signs will be posted, and drivers should anticipate delays as the work progresses.
