Drivers say a weekend traffic switch on state Highway 114 near Grapevine and Southlake is just the latest in a series of frustrating changes as the DFW Connector project progresses.
“It is a parking lot on the highway,” said Jinx Howell of Southlake.
The work closed the Northwest Highway Bridge, which links Grapevine and Southlake over 114.
“Southlake is pretty much impossible,” said David DeHart of Grapevine, adding that a trip that should take 20 minutes can take two hours if a driver gets rerouted.
This weekend’s changes along 114 are also affecting the north exit and entrance to DFW Airport as well as access to popular shopping venues like Grapevine Mills Mall.
Along the highway at Grapevine Kawasaki, services manager Vernon Taylor said his customers are still making the trip, but sometimes complain about a lack of convenience during construction.
“A lot of them mention that they’d like for this to be over,” Taylor said. “They’re looking forward to when they can get in and out.”
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The DFW Connector project is a partnership between TxDOT and NorthGate Constructors, who said the $1 billion-plus project is months ahead of schedule and set for completion in late 2013.
While drivers said they’re suffering through delays today, many are hopeful the future payoff will be worth it.
“We have suffered enough out here,” Howell said.“Hopefully it will make a big difference.”
This weekend’s closures along 114 are scheduled to reopen at 6 a.m. Monday.
For more updates on the project, visit www.dfwconnector.com
