Thousands of football fans traveling to Dallas for the annual Red River Rivalry game this weekend will face significant delays due to ongoing construction on Interstate 35. Drivers heading north, particularly from the Austin area, should prepare for extended travel times and plan their routes carefully.
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has highlighted several construction zones that could affect travel. These projects include lane closures and ongoing work that will test the patience of those making the journey to the Cotton Bowl.
Key Takeaways
- I-35 construction will cause delays for Red River Rivalry travelers.
- Major work zones are in North Austin, Round Rock, and Red Oak.
- Drivers should use the TxDOT DriveTexas map for real-time updates.
- Expect significant slowdowns, especially on Friday and Saturday.
Major Construction Zones on I-35 North
The primary areas of concern for drivers are located in Central Texas. Construction on both northbound and southbound I-35 continues in north Austin and Round Rock. This work involves multiple lane closures, which began earlier and are projected to continue until 2029.
According to the TxDOT DriveTexas map, the most active construction in this region is currently situated between U.S. Highway 290 and State Highway 45. This stretch is a critical bottleneck for traffic heading out of the Austin metropolitan area.
Fact Check
- Projected Completion: I-35 construction in North Austin/Round Rock is expected to last until 2029.
- Affected Area: Key construction is between US 290 and SH 45.
Further north, closer to Dallas, another construction project near Red Oak will also impact drivers. This specific work involves alternating lane closures on both the northbound and southbound sides of I-35. These closures are scheduled to occur at night and will continue until 5 a.m. on October 11.
"Thousands of people will be driving to Dallas over the next 36 hours to get to the Cotton Bowl for the Red River Rivalry, meaning Interstate 35 will be a test of endurance for the weekend," a KXAN report stated on October 9, 2025.
Planning Your Journey to the Cotton Bowl
For Texas Longhorns fans and other travelers heading to the Red River Rivalry game on Saturday afternoon, proactive planning is essential. The significant volume of traffic, combined with ongoing construction, means travel times will be longer than usual.
Drivers should consult the TxDOT DriveTexas map frequently before and during their trip. This online resource provides real-time information on current construction projects, reported crashes, and road closures across Texas. Using this tool can help identify potential detours or less congested routes.
About the Red River Rivalry
The Red River Rivalry is an annual college football game between the Texas Longhorns and the Oklahoma Sooners. It is one of the most historic and intense rivalries in college sports, typically played at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas during the State Fair of Texas.
While the rest of the I-35 corridor appears relatively clear of major construction projects for the weekend, travelers should still anticipate general slowdowns. The sheer number of vehicles heading north will naturally create congestion, especially on Friday and Saturday morning.
Tips for Navigating Traffic
- Check DriveTexas Map: Access DriveTexas.org for live updates on road conditions.
- Allow Extra Time: Add at least 1-2 hours to your estimated travel time to account for delays.
- Travel Off-Peak: If possible, consider departing outside of typical rush hours or early Saturday morning.
- Stay Informed: Listen to local traffic reports on the radio or use navigation apps with real-time traffic data.
- Prepare Your Vehicle: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for a long drive.
Congestion is expected to be heaviest on Friday afternoon and evening as many fans begin their journey. Saturday morning will also see high traffic volumes as people aim to arrive in Dallas before the game.
Impact on Local and Regional Travel
The Red River Rivalry weekend is a significant event for Dallas, drawing visitors from across Texas and Oklahoma. The increased traffic on I-35 not only affects those attending the game but also impacts general regional travel.
Local residents in areas like North Austin, Round Rock, and Red Oak should be aware of the heightened traffic and plan their local commutes accordingly. Even short trips could take longer than usual due to the influx of vehicles.
The continuous construction along I-35, a major north-south artery, is part of long-term infrastructure improvements. These projects aim to enhance future traffic flow and capacity but currently pose challenges for drivers.
Travelers should remain patient and vigilant while on the road. Distracted driving can increase the risk of accidents, especially in congested areas. Adhering to speed limits and maintaining safe following distances are crucial during periods of heavy traffic.
The State Fair of Texas, which hosts the Red River Rivalry, also draws a large crowd, adding to the overall traffic density in Dallas. This combination of events and construction makes for a challenging travel weekend.
In summary, while the Red River Rivalry promises an exciting football experience, the journey there will demand careful preparation and patience from travelers. Utilizing available resources like the TxDOT map will be key to navigating the roadways effectively.
