U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28), alongside state and local leaders, participated in a groundbreaking ceremony on February 12, 2024, to mark the initiation of the US 59 Loop upgrade project in Laredo. The project, a part of the future I-69 corridor, aims to enhance transportation infrastructure in South Texas.

Dr. Cuellar emphasized the significance of securing federal transportation funding for the region, highlighting the benefits of the US 59 Loop upgrade in improving traffic flow, safety, and fostering economic growth. He acknowledged the collaborative efforts of state and local partners, including the Texas Department of Transportation, State Senator Judith Zaffirini, Mayor Victor Treviño, Judge Tano Tijerina, and the Laredo City Council.

The upgrade project will involve widening the road to federal interstate highway standards from International Boulevard to East Corridor Road and constructing four overpasses at strategic points. With a total construction cost of approximately $360 million, of which $288 million comes from federal transportation funding, the project is slated to commence in February 2024 and expected to be completed within five years.

The endeavor aims to address the anticipated increase in travel demands over the next three decades, with projections indicating a surge from 70,350 to 121,700 vehicles per day. By mitigating traffic congestion and enhancing passenger safety, the initiative is poised to facilitate future economic development in the region.

Dr. Cuellar's efforts to secure federal funding for transportation projects in Laredo have resulted in significant allocations, including over $291.9 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and an authorization of nearly $1.5 billion in federal funding for Webb County in the 2024 TxDOT Unified Transportation Plan.

In summary, the US 59 Loop upgrade project represents a pivotal step towards improving transportation infrastructure in Laredo, with substantial federal funding earmarked to support ongoing and future initiatives in the region.