TxDOT to Lower Toll Rates on SH 288 in Houston, Add New Free Lanes
HOUSTON, TX – The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has announced it will lower average daily toll rates on the SH 288 managed lanes in south Houston, with new rates taking effect as early as September 1, 2025. This change comes after TxDOT exercised its right to take over operations of the roadway in October 2024.
Average daily toll rates on the Harris County portion of SH 288 will be reduced by nearly half. While rates will decrease substantially for most of the day, some peak-time rates will remain the same to ensure a minimum speed and traffic flow.
Governor Greg Abbott stated, “Cutting taxes for Texans is a top priority, and that includes cutting toll rates. By lowering toll rates and adding free lanes along SH 288, we will achieve that goal while also easing roadway congestion.”
TxDOT plans to use a portion of the toll revenue to construct two new, free general-purpose lanes—one in each direction—along portions of SH 288 between IH 610 and Beltway 8.
“This will provide real benefits for Houston area drivers and is a great example of how we work to ease congestion across the state,” said Texas Transportation Commission Chair J. Bruce Bugg Jr.
TxDOT is also fulfilling its promise to restore the $1.7 billion payment to the state highway fund, ensuring that new projects across the state are not delayed.
Toll billing and customer account management will continue to be handled by the Harris County Toll Road Authority (HCTRA). The TxDOT-managed portion of SH 288 includes over 10 miles of tolled facilities from I-69 to the Harris and Brazoria County line.
