Groundbreaking took place this morning on the $1 billion, 9.9-mile stretch that will connect SH 78 in Garland to I-30.
The Bush Turnpike extension—along with the 2012 arrival of Dallas Area Rapid Transit light rail—is expected to create about 13,000 jobs and $18.9 billion in economic impact over 20 years.
Rowlett’s two upcoming mixed-use projects will assist in the economic boost. Northshore is a 1,000-acre planned commercial and light industrial district along the northern part of the extension. The city also plans to develop a 300-acre retail and restaurant center along the turnpike just north of Lake Ray Hubbard.
Tolls will range from 40 cents to $1.50 for TollTag customers and from 65 cents to $2.20 for drivers without TollTags.
Actual construction will begin next month, with the extension scheduled to open in late 2011.
Source: Dallas Morning News