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12/21/2011 09:14 PM

New flyover on Highway 6 now open for traffic

By: Dan Robertson

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The Texas Department of Transportation has a special Christmas gift for the city of Waco – the opening of the Highway 6 flyover.

The opening of the flyover marks the completion of the final major portion of a $100- million project which has spanned about eight years. Now, northbound and southbound traffic on Interstate 35 have access to Highway 6 westbound without needing to slow down.

Highway planners expect the new overpass to significantly reduce congestion in this area and save a lot of time for commuters headed westbound on Highway 6.

Standing 110 feet above the ground, the new flyover is one of the tallest structures in the area. But don’t slow down to take in the scenic view – the road is designed for traffic to maintain the speed limit of 70 mph.

Paid for primarily by the Texas Mobility Fund, area leaders say the project proves that innovative financing can get the job done.

"The I-35 corridor is the backbone of Texas, so we're really excited about this. It's a great thing for our area," State Representative Doc Anderson said.

Highway planners say thousands of vehicles will use the interchange each day. Leaders say the area is now primed and ready for economic growth.

“It's always a good use of tax dollars if it's going to pay back in economic development," Michael Lashombe with the Robinson Chamber of Commerce said.

To learn more about the progress being made, visit My35.org.