TxDOT is about to start a big project that could impact some of Houston’s northside neighborhoods over the next couple of years. A route that a lot of people use as a backup during rush hour is about to be demolished.

At a recent public meeting in Near Northside, neighbors heard about TxDOT's plans to demolish and replace the Elysian Viaduct, an aging structure that was built in the 1950's.

The four-lane elevated roadway runs about a mile and a half. It carries traffic from the northside over I-10 and into downtown, ending near Minute Maid Park.

TxDOT's Danny Perez says the plan is to start tearing down the structure next week, starting on the downtown side.

"Once we start the demolition another crew will come behind them and actually start reconstruction of the project," explains Perez.

TxDOT says it wants to update the Elysian Viaduct so it can handle future growth. For one, the new roadway will include shoulders, something it doesn't have right now.

As for how long it will take to build the new viaduct, TxDOT says about two-and-a-half years. But Perez says they could have it done sooner.

"Having that corridor open as quickly as possible is definitely going to be a benefit not just for the local folks but folks that use that on a regular basis to and from downtown," adds Perez.

The cost of the new Elysian Viaduct is $35 million.

Subscribe to Today in Houston Fill out the form below to subscribe our new daily editorial newsletter from the HPM Newsroom. Email* First Name Last Name * required