Reconstruction Of Old Highway 77 To Begin

The complete reconstruction of Old Highway 77 is set to begin this October, bringing long-awaited improvements that will make traveling the roadway much smoother and safer for motorists. To commemorate the launch of this significant project, a ribbon-cutting and groundbreaking ceremony will take place on October 15 at the corner of Old Highway 77 and Ruben Torres Boulevard.

The ambitious two-year project will overhaul the highway with new sidewalks, gutters, and storm sewers. City Engineer Carlos Lastra, from the Department of Engineering and Public Works, explained the extensive scope of work: “We are going to redo everything—new paving, utilities, storm sewers, and we’re adding new curb and gutter. There will also be a 10-foot wide shared path on the east side of the road and a 5-foot sidewalk on the west side.”

The reconstruction will proceed in phases, starting with water and sewer utility work, followed by storm sewer installations, and finally the street construction. Lastra noted that this is the first complete makeover of Old Highway 77, which has only undergone routine pothole maintenance in the past.

The total cost for the project is estimated at $13 million.

Other major roadways in the city, such as Old Alice Road and 14th Street, are also slated for reconstruction in the coming years, with 14th Street scheduled for work in 2025 and Old Alice Road in 2026. According to Lastra, the reconstruction process will be comprehensive: “We will be redoing everything from the base up, including new asphalt, curbs, gutters, sidewalks, and shared paths.”

As the work begins, Lastra urges motorists to exercise caution and pay attention to traffic signs and construction workers in the area. “We ask for your patience. It will be inconvenient for a while, but at the end of the day, you’ll have a brand-new road with no more bumps or issues. That’s our goal,” Lastra emphasized.

This project marks a significant step forward in improving Brownsville’s infrastructure and enhancing the safety and convenience of its roadways for all residents.