DFW AIRPORT, Texas — Dallas Fort Worth International Airport has celebrated the completion of the East-West Connector Project, opening a new roadway designed to improve regional traffic flow, reduce congestion, and expand access to commercial development surrounding the airport.
The approximately 1.65-mile corridor extends Rental Car Drive from the South Service Road of International Parkway to the northbound frontage road of State Highway 360 at Hardwood Drive. The new connection links State Highway 161 with State Highway 360, improving east-west travel through the airport's southern corridor.
Airport officials said the roadway fulfills a transportation vision first proposed nearly 20 years ago.
Construction began during the first quarter of 2024 and was completed as part of a $30.8 million project.
According to DFW Airport, the new connector is expected to improve traffic mobility, enhance roadway safety, reduce congestion, and provide better access to existing businesses as well as future commercial development near the airport.
Approximately 80 percent of the project's funding came through federal transportation programs administered by the North Central Texas Council of Governments. The project was delivered under a Local Project Advance Funding Agreement between DFW Airport and the Texas Department of Transportation's Fort Worth District.
Airport officials credited the project's success to extensive coordination among utility providers, DFW Airport's Design, Code and Construction departments, and several outside partners, including STV/AZ&B Joint Venture, Sinacola Construction Company, and engineering firm Garver.
Construction crews also overcame several engineering challenges during the project, including large debris removal operations and stabilization of a dam's clay core.
Airport officials said the completion of the East-West Connector marks a significant milestone in improving transportation infrastructure for one of the nation's busiest airports while supporting continued economic growth throughout the surrounding region.
