In one of Texas’ most ambitious infrastructure overhauls to date, global construction giant Balfour Beatty has landed an $889 million contract to reconstruct a vital stretch of Interstate 30 (I-30) in East Dallas. 

The high-profile project promises to transform a congested corridor into a streamlined gateway for future growth in commuters and freight. It represents the state’s bold commitment to modernizing its aging roadways.

The project will expand general-purpose lanes from six to twelve, add nine new cross-street bridges and modernize a critical interchange that connects with the Southern Gateway, I-35E Lowest Stemmons and The Horseshoe - three major projects also delivered by Balfour Beatty.

Preconstruction activities are scheduled for 2026, with the main phase of work extending over five years. The scope also includes pedestrian and bicycle transportation improvements, updated lighting, drainage and enhanced connectivity throughout the corridor. The award was announced by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) as part of its ongoing strategic plan to tackle rising congestion and safety issues across key highway corridors.

The Balfour-led project is part of a larger effort to revamp I-30 through the heart of Dallas. A nearby section known as the I-30 “Canyon” has recently seen its cost projections soar by an additional $196 million due to inflation. It highlights the mounting financial complexities associated with urban highway reconstruction.

“The contract award marks a significant milestone in Balfour Beatty’s 30-year partnership with the Texas Department of Transportation and our proven track record of successful project delivery,” says Leo Quinn, Balfour Beatty Group Chief Executive.

The project is part of a broader wave of major infrastructure upgrades in the state. For instance, Fluor recently secured a $671 million contract to improve a stretch of highway in College Station. In a related announcement, Flour was tapped to expand a 12-mile portion of State Highway 6, further demonstrating the department’s commitment to addressing urban traffic congestion and safety across Texas.

Balfour Beatty has emphasized the use of local subcontractors, skilled labour and DBE (Disadvantaged Business Enterprise) firms to deliver the project, aligning with regional economic development and equity goals. Similarly, Texas is not alone in this trend. Neighboring Arkansas is also enhancing I-30; the first phase of its massive 30 Crossing project nears completion, reflecting a regional push toward long-term highway modernization.

The current award also follows on the heels of Balfour Beatty’s $746 million contract in November 2024 to rehabilitate a stretch of I-35 in Austin. It focuses on the firm’s overwhelming role in Texas’ transportation scene. 

This kind of large-scale infrastructure investment is considered necessary to meet future demand as the state continues to see rapid population and freight growth.