By Erick Holguin, Perez Law Firm, PLLC · Updated November 2, 2026 · Texas Eminent Domain Blog
Short answer: TxDOT is building State Highway 68, a new four-lane divided highway about 22 miles long, from I-2/US 83 near Donna to I-69C/US 281 near Edinburg in Hidalgo County. The project needs about 1,100 acres of new right of way, usually 330 feet wide, and could displace up to about 100 homes and businesses. Right-of-way acquisition is underway. If TxDOT has sent you an offer, you have rights under Texas law, and the first offer is not the last word.
SH 68 project: key facts
| Agency | Texas Department of Transportation, Pharr District |
| County | Hidalgo |
| Limits | I-2/US 83 (Donna) to I-69C/US 281 (Edinburg) |
| Length | About 22 miles |
| Design | New-location, four-lane divided rural highway |
| Typical right-of-way width | 330 feet |
| New right of way | About 1,100 acres |
| Potential displacements | Up to about 100 |
| CSJ numbers | 3629-01-001, 3629-01-002, 3629-01-003 |
| Environmental decision | Final EIS noticed April 2025; Record of Decision issued 2025 |
| Status | Right-of-way acquisition underway |
Is my property on the SH 68 route?
The approved alignment runs north–south between Donna and Edinburg, generally east of McAllen and Pharr. The best way to check is the schematic and right-of-way maps from TxDOT’s Pharr District, or the parcel number on any letter you received. If TxDOT has asked to survey or appraise your land, you are likely in the right-of-way area.
How the TxDOT offer process works
- Appraisal. TxDOT hires an appraiser, who may ask to inspect the property. You can attend.
- Initial offer. A written offer, with the Texas Landowner’s Bill of Rights.
- Final offer. At least 30 days after the initial offer, with the appraisal reports TxDOT relied on. You get at least 14 days to respond.
- Condemnation. If there is no deal, the State files suit and three special commissioners hold a hearing on compensation. Either side can object and take the case to trial.
Read our guide to TxDOT takings for more detail.
What can Hidalgo County landowners negotiate?
- Market value of the land taken, based on highest and best use, not just current farm use
- Damages to the remainder, such as an odd-shaped leftover tract or a field cut in two
- Access to the new highway and to the land on each side
- Irrigation and drainage, including canals, pipelines and district water rights
- Improvements such as homes, barns, wells, fences and signs
If your home or business is displaced, you may also qualify for relocation assistance, which is separate from compensation for the property.
Frequently asked questions
Where does SH 68 start and end?
At I-2/US 83 near Donna in the south and at I-69C/US 281 near Edinburg in the north, all in Hidalgo County.
Can TxDOT take my whole property?
TxDOT usually takes only what the right of way needs. If the leftover piece is uneconomic, you can ask TxDOT to buy it too, or seek damages for its lost value.
Does it cost anything to have my offer reviewed?
Our initial offer review is free. Call 956-782-2700 or use the form below.
On the SH 68 route? Get a free review before you sign.
Our office is in McAllen. Send us the TxDOT offer or appraisal. Call 956-782-2700. Se habla español.
Related: Bentsen Road widening in McAllen · The Texas condemnation process
Sources
- TxDOT, SH 68 project page
- Texas Property Code, Chapter 21
General information, not legal advice, current as of the date above. Perez Law Firm, PLLC is not affiliated with TxDOT. Attorney advertising. Responsible attorney: Erick Holguin, Perez Law Firm, PLLC, McAllen, Texas.