I-35 and SH-6 Interchange in Waco — Live Traffic Webcam

Introduction: A Transportation Hub in Central Texas

The I-35 and SH-6 SE interchange in Waco is one of the key nodes of Central Texas transportation infrastructure. This live webcam streams a multi-level highway interchange where Interstate 35 and State Highway 6 intersect. The camera is positioned at an angle that allows observation of overpasses, bridges, and multiple lanes of traffic — from the metal framework of road signs in the foreground to the distant ramps. In the upper right corner of the stream, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) logo is displayed, confirming the official status of the source.

Infrastructure of the I-35 and SH-6 Interchange

The existing I-35/SH-6 interchange in Waco is an outdated four-leaf cloverleaf interchange that is planned to be replaced with a multi-level structure featuring dedicated ramps and improved access to city streets. The structure includes overpasses, bridges, and multiple lanes of traffic in each direction. In the foreground of the camera view, a metal structure is visible — a framework for road signs, typical of sections with heavy navigational load.

The cost of the final phase of the I-35 Waco South reconstruction is $250 million. The project includes expanding the main lanes from six to eight — four in each direction. This is a large-scale modernization aimed at relieving one of the most problematic sections of the interstate highway in Central Texas.

Transportation Corridor: The Significance of I-35 for the Region

Interstate 35 is the backbone highway of the central United States, connecting Dallas-Fort Worth in the north with Austin and San Antonio in the south. The I-35 segment through Waco carries more than 140,000 vehicles daily, making the interchange with SH-6 critical for regional mobility. The corridor serves both transit traffic between major metropolitan areas and local trips for residents of McLennan County.

State Highway 6 (Southeast) provides connectivity to southeastern areas of Waco and access to the highway toward Houston. The intersection of these two highways forms a transportation hub that provides access to Baylor University, the city's business district, and industrial zones along the Brazos River.

Reconstruction and Modernization: The My35 Project

The I-35 Waco South reconstruction (My35 Waco South Construction Project) is being carried out by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and includes a full reconstruction of the northbound direction of I-35 from S Loop 340 to 12th Street. The project affects not only the main travel lanes but also six bridge structures and the drainage system.

As part of the My35 project, changes were made to the interchange design at 11th and 12th Street — so-called "flip the stack" modifications that connected previously separated sections of I-35 into a single corridor. This eliminated bottlenecks where traffic was forced to change lanes in dense traffic conditions.

Access to Baylor University and Downtown Waco

The I-35/SH-6 interchange is the main route for those heading to Baylor University or downtown Waco. Access to Downtown Waco is via MLK Boulevard, crossing the Brazos River on Franklin Avenue or via the southbound direction of I-35 using University Parks Drive or 6th Street.

The I-35 bridge over the Brazos River is not only a transportation artery but also a visual landmark of the city. It is equipped with LED lighting that illuminates the bridge in various colors. This is a joint project of Baylor University and the city of Waco. The university viewed the lighting as an opportunity to demonstrate partnership with the community and create a showcase for Waco and Baylor.

Road Conditions and Traffic Characteristics

Traffic at this interchange is characterized by a mixed composition: passenger cars, pickup trucks (a hallmark of Texas road traffic), commercial trucks, and delivery vans. The stream regularly shows pickup trucks carrying loads — detachable trailers, construction materials, and agricultural equipment. This reflects the economic profile of the region, where agriculture, construction, and logistics play a significant role.

Morning and evening rush hours create characteristic congestion on the ramps to SH-6, especially in the direction of Baylor University. Transit traffic between DFW and Austin adds load on weekends and holidays, when the flow of vehicles increases due to tourists and students. The webcam allows you to assess current congestion and choose the optimal time for your trip.

Weather Conditions and Visibility

The Waco area is located in the Brazos Valley, which is subject to specific weather phenomena. In spring and fall, morning fog can significantly reduce visibility on the overpasses and bridges of the interchange. Summer downpours and thunderstorms create a risk of hydroplaning on sections with reduced gradient. In winter, rare but dangerous icy conditions can lead to temporary ramp closures.

The camera at the I-35 and SH-6 interchange provides the ability to visually assess road surface conditions, precipitation, and overall visibility before departing. This is especially valuable for commercial truck drivers who consider weather conditions when planning routes through Central Texas.

What the Camera Shows

The camera stream opens a view of the multi-level interchange of Interstate 35 and State Highway 6 SE in Waco, Texas. In the foreground is the metal framework for road signs, behind which unfolds a panorama of overpasses and bridges. The frame shows multiple lanes of traffic with flows of vehicles, including pickup trucks with loads. In the background is the intersection of interchange levels, along which traffic moves toward Baylor University, Downtown Waco, and the southeastern areas of the city. In the upper right corner, the Texas Department of Transportation logo is displayed — confirmation of the official source of video surveillance.