AUSTIN, Texas — Plans to expand I-35 through Austin are expected to displace dozens of businesses.
TxDOT's plans call for adding two high-occupancy-vehicle (HOV) lanes in each direction from Highway 290 to State Highway 71. The project will also displace 59 businesses, according to TxDOT. Some of the businesses have already received notices.
Joey Slayne, who owns The Glass Coffin: Vampire Parlour, said he's one of those businesses.
"We did get a 90 notice back in Aug. 15," Slayne said. "And from that date, we have 90 days until Nov. 15...and that’s all the information I have been given. A lot of uncertainty not sure exactly about our move-out date is even though on the notice it does say Nov. 15.
Slayne said he likes the location off I-35 because he said a lot of people see the shop, are curious, and come in and check it out. He said he has been looking for a new location but it's been challenging.
"I haven't really found anything yet," Slayne said. "I have seen about five or six places, and everything is way out of my budget."
Slayne is hoping TxDOT can give him an extension. KVUE also spoke with other businesses along I-35 that could be impacted and they told us they have not received notices yet, but said it would be a challenge if they have to move.
"Hoping for at least a few more months until after the holidays," Slayne said. "Having to relocate during the holidays is stressful as it is. An extension would help a lot, at least until January or February."
KVUE spoke with other businesses along I-35 that could be impacted and they told us they have yet to receive notices, but said it would be a challenge if they have to move. TxDOT says businesses that get displaced may qualify for some reimbursement.
TxDOT issued the following statement to KVUE:
“TxDOT’s right-of-way agents and attorneys are currently working with property owners on right-of-way acquisition.
Timeframes for vacating properties will vary depending on a number of factors, including construction timeline, property location, etc. The language in the 90-day notice individuals are receiving informs them they have been determined to be eligible for relocation assistance and that they have 18 months to file claims.
The 90-day time frame mentioned in the notice is informing them no one being displaced by the project would be required to move with less than 90 days notice.
The department is committed to working with these individuals to give them as much reasonable advance notice for when the property is needed for construction purposes."