TxDOT has expanded highways for years, even though they know it doesn’t work. Widening highways worsens congestion by encouraging more driving, a phenomenon known as “induced demand”. When Houston’s Katy Freeway (pictured) was widened to 23 lanes, evening commutes got 19 minutes longer.

Austinites already spend over 100 hours a year stuck in traffic. With an expanded I-35, they’ll spend even more time behind the wheel.

It’s impossible to describe the pain of suddenly, tragically losing a loved one. And yet, every year 25 percent of all traffic-related fatalities in Austin happen on I-35. Widening I-35 will increase vehicle speeds outside of rush hour, meaning more people will die and suffer life-changing injuries.

Increasing the number of travel lanes on I-35 will directly interfere with Austin's Vision Zero initiative to reduce traffic fatalities.

The American Lung Association says about the Austin area “the air you breathe may put your health at risk.” And climate change presents a grave threat to humanity. Widening I-35 would make these crises much worse.

Expanding I-35 will significantly impede the City of Austin from reaching its goal of net-zero fossil fuel emissions by 2040.

Widening I-35 is projected to cost over $5 billion – a staggering figure that’s almost certain to rise if the project gets underway. Other increased costs – including higher long term maintenance, dealing with a growing number of crashes, and of course future highway expansions – will surely follow.

Texas will have to balance its books sooner or later, meaning higher taxes for us all.