Michael Baker International selected for I-635 Improvement Project

Dallas — Michael Baker International was awarded a $2.75-million, two-year contract from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to develop schematic, environmental and traffic studies in support of the construction of frontage – or access – roads along a 33-mile stretch of Interstate 635 (I-635) in Dallas.

As part of the contract, the Michael Baker team will conduct a number of detailed studies in advance of TxDOT’s plans to add more than 33-miles of frontage roads that will offer motorists low-speed access to homes and businesses along the corridor. With efforts including surveying the schematic layout, developing traffic studies (ramp installation, capacity evaluation and potential road widening), subsurface utility engineering (SUE) and noise management studies, Michael Baker will provide recommendations to ensure steady traffic flow and ease of access. Additionally, throughout the process, Michael Baker will conduct a public involvement and engagement campaign at city council meetings to apprise stakeholders of progress and updates.

“I-635 is a major thruway that loops around Dallas and connects thousands of commuters between downtown and the airport. As the surrounding areas continue to develop, our experts will focus on achieving results that allow motorists to safely and efficiently reach their destinations,” said Juan Contreras, office executive for Michael Baker’s Dallas office. “Our studies will drive the construction of more than 33-miles of frontage roads that will ultimately enable developers to continue building new commercial and residential developments.”

Michael Baker’s current contract to improve I-635 is part of a larger statewide evergreen contract that TxDOT awarded to the company in 2015. As part of the 2015 contract, the company is completing studies that examine the length of I-635 from the interchange at US 80 to the junction at I-20.

Michael Baker’s I-635 efforts began in Q2 2016 with completion anticipated in mid-2018.