The I-14 corridor may already be on your radar. But as this central Texas route evolves into a major interstate, highway construction companies need to keep it firmly in view. Stretching like a ribbon across the state, this long-term upgrade is becoming too significant for you to ignore.
But why? You likely have projects nearer home, so…
Why does the I-14 Corridor Matter to Highway Construction Companies?
You already know the current scale of highway infrastructure development in Texas. It’s game-changing for lucrative opportunities. And the I-14 expansion is a significant part of those opportunities for ongoing work.
For example, the plans involve dozens of bridges and miles of new road upgrading. So highway construction across many disciplines will be involved for at least a decade.
If you’re a general contractor looking to stay active and competitive in long-term infrastructure, I-14 is the kind of project that can support your success for years.
This leads to the question: How can you make the most of this opportunity? Let’s look at – or revise, if you’re already thinking that way – some positive action you can take now.
How Highway Construction Companies Can Prepare Now
Even if breaking ground on your preferred section is years away, there’s work you can do now to ensure your company is ready when opportunities arise. Here’s how to get ahead:
1. Track TxDOT Updates and Corridor Studies
Keep a close eye on the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) project pages, especially the Interstate 14 System in Texas page.
TxDOT posts public meeting notices, corridor alignment updates, and timelines for project segmentation. By monitoring these, you’ll know which sections are moving into planning, engineering, or letting phases – and when it’s time to act.
2. Solidify Partnerships Now
Start building relationships with other highway construction companies and subcontractors, especially those who have a track record of working on state-funded highway projects.
And reach out to firms in adjacent specialties (like drainage, bridge work, or traffic control) to discuss teaming arrangements.
You can also consider attending TxDOT industry briefings and local infrastructure summits. These are great places to connect with firms you may later joint-venture with or subcontract to.
Starting those conversations now can pay off when RFQs and RFPs arrive on your desk. Which leads us to the advantages of prequalifying.
3. Prequalify with TxDOT and Local Agencies
TxDOT requires highway construction companies they contract to be prequalified for most of its highway work, as the acronyms RFQs and RFPs infer!
This involves submitting your financials, equipment list, project history, and proof of experience in relevant project scopes.
It’s a rigorous process.But once you’re in, you’re eligible for a wide range of bids.
Start with TxDOT’s “Contractor Prequalification” page and begin assembling the required documentation.
If you already work with local Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) or municipalities along the I-14 corridor, check their procurement portals too. Some local work may be let ahead of full-scale construction.
4. Identify Where Your Capabilities Fit
The I-14 project includes everything from new roadway grading and bridge construction to signage, paving, and utility relocation.
Review the draft project scopes and think strategically:
- Where does your company add the most value?
- Are you equipped for heavy grading, or better suited to support services like hauling, aggregate supply, or erosion control?
Knowing where you fit – and where you’ll need to subcontract to a specialized hauler, for example – will help you build accurate teams and responsive bids. And while doing this, bear in mind any requirements for percentages of certain certifications too.
A Long Road Ahead – But One Worth Helping to Build!
The full build-out of I-14 won’t happen overnight. But in our opinion, few projects offer the same promise of steady, large-scale work over the next decade or more.
By positioning yourself early and staying connected, you put your company in the right place to help shape a corridor that will move freight, people, and opportunity across the state.
Cowboy Trucking: A Reliable Partner for Highway Construction Companies
For over three decades, Cowboy Trucking has been providing hauling services across the Dallas-Fort Worth area and further afield. We have the experience to get jobs done with less frustration for you, excellent contracting, and a reliable fleet of trucks and drivers.
Give us a call to see how we can collaborate effectively on your projects.