Drivers moving through the San Antonio area should prepare for several months of delays and detours on one of the busiest highways in Texas. A northbound entrance ramp to I-35, located north of Corporate Drive in Schertz, will remain closed until August 2026 for work related to the large interstate expansion project.

The closure began June 17 and is part of the Texas Department of Transportation's Northeast Expansion program, known as NEX. According to the city of Schertz, the work includes installing drainage and other road improvements in the area.

During the closure, motorists will be detoured to the next northbound entrance, located on Schertz Parkway. The recommendation for those traveling in the northeast of the San Antonio metropolitan area is to leave with more time, review the route before driving and consider alternatives if they must pass through I-35 during peak traffic times.

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A key work on a very busy route

The closure is part of a larger expansion of I-35, a critical corridor for travelers between San Antonio, Austin and other Central Texas cities. The NEX program seeks to widen about 20 miles of the interstate, from North Walters Street in San Antonio to FM 1103 in Guadalupe County.

The project includes new elevated lanes, side road improvements, drainage and ramp modifications. TxDOT maintains that the work seeks to improve safety, reduce travel times and respond to sustained growth in Bexar, Comal and Guadalupe counties.

For drivers, however, the benefit will come after a long period of inconvenience. The Schertz area, northeast of San Antonio, already sees heavy traffic, especially during rush hour and during trips between suburban communities and employment centers.

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What drivers should keep in mind

The key will be to anticipate. Those using I-35 north near Corporate Drive should detour onto Schertz Parkway and allow additional travel time.

It's also a good idea to check TxDOT and city notices before leaving, because long-term construction may cause temporary changes to lanes, access or travel times.

The closure will be in effect for much of the summer, affecting both residents and road travelers in the San Antonio-Austin corridor.