An 18-wheeler carrying large cylinders struck the Houston Avenue Bridge over the I-10 Katy Freeway late Tuesday, leading to significant traffic disruptions and the closure of the bridge early Wednesday. The incident occurred around 10 p.m., according to the Houston Police Department.
The collision involved a big rig hauling oversized cargo that reportedly hit the bridge structure. The impact caused some of the cylinders to spill onto the freeway lanes below, according to initial reports.
Crews were on the scene Wednesday morning assessing the bridge, which remains closed in both directions. Traffic lanes on I-10, particularly eastbound, were impacted overnight, though the freeway itself has since reopened. Suggested alternate routes for crossing the freeway include Sawyer and Studemont streets. For current traffic conditions, see Traffic Updates.
The Houston Avenue Bridge has a history of being struck by taller vehicles. It was hit 46 times in 2024 alone and stands as one of the lowest bridges along this stretch of I-10, with a clearance of 14 feet, 3 inches.
Responding to the ongoing issues with bridge strikes and traffic congestion, the Texas Department of Transportation is undertaking the I-10 White Oak Bayou Project. A key part of this project involves lowering Houston Avenue to run under I-10, eliminating the bridge structure at this location.
Construction on the overall project began in January. Work specifically related to the Houston Avenue section is scheduled to start in mid-2025 and continue until late 2027. The complete I-10 White Oak Bayou Project is expected to finish in late 2028. This long-term plan aims to improve safety and traffic flow through the area.
Lane reductions on the I-10 freeway have already been in effect as part of the broader construction effort. Information on earlier project impacts is available at I-10 Westbound Reduced. The Houston Avenue Bridge closure adds another layer to ongoing traffic challenges in the corridor.
