History and Context
Before becoming Interstate 45, the corridor served as a major rail line connecting Houston to Galveston, linking communities through a network that was central to commerce and travel.
The highway’s construction also brought significant environmental impacts. For decades, residents in areas like Near Northside, Fifth Ward, and Independence Heights have faced elevated levels of air pollution from vehicle emissions, contributing to higher rates of asthma and respiratory illnesses. Noise pollution from traffic and construction has become a constant strain on community well-being. The concrete infrastructure has worsened stormwater runoff, contributing to flooding issues that continue to plague these areas. Increased concrete and impermeable surfaces prevent natural drainage, leading to localized flooding, which threatens homes and public health—especially for those who lack resources for flood mitigation.
Proposal
The grassroots campaign, STOP TxDOT I-45, is fighting the North Houston Highway Improvement Project (NHHIP), which threatens to worsen the environmental destruction already impacting Houston. The expansion would directly contribute to the loss of our historic bayous, destroy flood-absorbing land, and increase concrete sprawl— worsening air pollution, flooding, and heat island effects. These harms fall hardest on Houston’s Black and Hispanic neighborhoods, which have long borne the brunt of environmentally racist infrastructure decisions. STOP TxDOT I-45 and its allies are demanding a halt to the expansion and advocating for solutions that prioritize people, protect our environment, and build true resilience.
This grassroots campaign introduces a new approach to the Freeways Without Futures report by spotlighting the environmental and community benefits of stopping the highway. Redirecting NHHIP funds toward people- centered investments could transform transit access, restore green spaces, and create healthier neighborhoods across the city.
Current Plans
By advocating for these strategies, the STOP TxDOT I-45 campaign aims to protect current residents from the adverse effects of the highway expansion, ensuring that the community remains inclusive and affordable for all. These include economic benefits, environmental benefits, and economic benefits linked to environmental improvements. Here are some key points highlighting how halting this highway expansion could benefit the legacy community:
- Investment in Multimodal Transportation: The $13 billion allocated for the NHHIP could instead be redirected toward a variety of multimodal transportation projects. This could include enhancements to public transit systems, expanded bike lanes, and improved pedestrian pathways, making it easier and safer for residents to travel without relying on cars.
- Reduced Displacement: The expansion of I-45 threatens to displace 1,079 multifamily homes, 334 businesses, 2 schools, and 5 places of worship. Not building the highway would protect these community assets, preventing the upheaval and loss of homes, schools, and vital community spaces that support social and cultural connections.
- Environmental Benefits: Halting the highway expansion would help prevent a cascade of environmental harm that disproportionately affect Houston’s most vulnerable communities. A people-first, environmentally conscious approach would make Houston more resilient to climate change while creating a more livable, equitable city for future generations.
- Community Resilience: Redirecting funds toward infrastructure improvements that prioritize community resilience—such as flood management systems and climate adaptation strategies—would strengthen neighborhoods against environmental challenges, including flooding and extreme weather events.
- Economic Opportunities: Investing in public transit and multimodal options can create jobs, stimulate local economies, and promote equitable access to employment opportunities. Improved transportation options can connect residents to jobs, education, and services, fostering economic growth in the community.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Ultimately, not building the highway would allow for the development of spaces that prioritize community well-being, health, and connectivity. A focus on pedestrian-friendly designs, public parks, and community centers can contribute to a higher quality of life for residents.