Texas officials break ground on new highway to ease traffic between McKinney and Princeton
Relief is on the way for one of North Texas' most congested commutes as the Texas Department of Transportation breaks ground Tuesday on a major highway project aimed at easing traffic in eastern Collin County.
The new roadway will create an alternate route along Spur 399, eventually connecting Highway 75 to Highway 380 just west of Princeton. The initial phase will run from Highway 75 to Stewart Road in McKinney and eventually span six miles.
New highway aims to reduce commute times between McKinney and Princeton
"The growth in eastern Collin County is huge, and this is something that is desperately needed," said Madison Schein, a TxDOT spokesperson.
The construction comes as Princeton, now the fastest-growing city in the U.S. according to the Census Bureau, has doubled in population over the last five years. But despite the rapid growth, Highway 380 remains largely a two-lane road between Princeton and McKinney, creating daily traffic headaches.
"A 30-minute commute could last up to an hour some days," said commuter Jobe Dodou, who drives the route daily. "You just sit and wait and wait and wait."
Dodou said he looks forward to the project's completion. "I can't wait for it to finish. Absolutely, that would be awesome."
Traffic congestion takes economic toll on Collin County residents
County officials say the traffic issue isn't just a commuter inconvenience—it's also an economic problem. Collin County Commissioner Darrell Hale said studies showed the traffic delays were costing residents between $1,100 and $1,200 annually in wasted time and fuel.
"There is a cost to congestion, as in traffic every year," Hale said.
While the project promises long-term benefits, construction will take several years to complete. In the meantime, Princeton's population is expected to continue doubling, adding urgency to the need for improved infrastructure.
