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This map shows the areas of Loop 360 that would be affected by any changes.

As many commuters know well, traffic can be miserable in Austin. In 2010 , a traffic and congestion software research company, the Austin metro area 26th for worst congestion nation-wide. Here is one commuter's video of sitting in traffic on Texas State Highway Loop 360:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rOO6DuftbOg

The (TxDOT) is holding an open house Tuesday night to discuss for Loop 360 in an effort to ease traffic flow. The changes would affect the highway along a stretch from US 183 to US 290.

A spokesman for the department says that at this point the city is not looking to acquire any right-of-way permits. This means that 360 will not be adding lanes, or displacing any pre-existing homes or businesses.

Because the highway can't be widened, TxDOT is looking into "innovative intersection improvements" to help with congestion. This complicated-sounding term boils down to changes in protected left hand turns.

Proposed improvements include instituting '' or '.' Priority would be given to drivers on 360. Drivers wanting to make a left-hand turn from a side street would need to take a right, drive down to the nearest cross-over, and then turn left. 

TxDOT is still in the conceptualizing stage and won't finalize any plans until next year. They are looking for public input both at tonight's open house, and in .

Tuesday's meeting will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.