Several new local projects included in TxDOT’s ‘record’ infrastructure investment

PERMIAN BASIN (KMID/KPEJ) – Governor Greg Abbott announced a $148 billion investment in Texas transportation infrastructure, with the recent approval of the Unified Transportation Program.

The investment included the unanimous adoption of the more than $104 billion 10-year infrastructure plan by the Texas Department of Transportation, aimed at improving safety, addressing congestion and connectivity, and preserving roadways. This plan includes more than $43 billion for development and routine maintenance. TxDOT said this is a $5.6 billion increase in total investment from 2023.

“Strengthening our roadways and transportation infrastructure is critical for Texas to remain the Best State for Business in the nation,” said Governor Abbott. “With the adoption of this record-breaking $148 billion transportation investment, Texas will continue to meet the needs of Texans in rural, urban, and metropolitan communities while also improving roadway congestion and safety. People come to Texas because we provide the freedom and opportunity they can’t find anywhere else, and that’s why we’re investing in the future of Texas roads. Projects like this will ensure our products and people can move quickly to keep the Texas economy booming. Together, we are building a bigger, better Texas for years to come.”

TxDOT said congestion relief projects will see a $1.9 billion increase in funding, which will help to support the $75.8 billion total investment for completed, under-construction, and planned non-tolled projects since 2015. This also includes a $17.3 billion investment in safety and an additional $1.7 billion in funding for rural corridors and key roadways in economic hubs.

“With a booming population and economy, TxDOT is meeting the moment with a record investment in our state roadway system to ensure Texas remains the preferred destination for families and businesses,” said Texas Transportation Commission Chairman J. Bruce Bugg, Jr. “Thanks to the vision of Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas Legislature, this historic transportation investment focusing on safety and congestion relief will help meet the needs of Texans for years to come.”

“This investment impacts communities across the state, with projects that can help save lives and improve connectivity,” said TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams. “TxDOT has a record amount of active construction projects this year, and this will help continue that work of moving people and goods safely and efficiently in our rural, urban and metropolitan areas.”

The Permian Basin Metropolitan Planning Organization said in a release on Tuesday that new additions to the authorized projects in the area include:

• A $35 million new interchange at East Loop 338 and 87 ^th Street
• A $6.5 million widening of State Highway 158 between Wadley and Briarwood
• $16 million in partial funding for a new interchange on SH 191 at County Road 1250
• $5 million in operational improvements on Loop 250 between Midland Drive and Midkiff

PMBPO said it is preparing a 25-year long range plan, including projects in the state’s 10-year UTP. Stakeholders and interested citizens are being encouraged to respond to the survey available on the Organization’s website here . The plan is expected to be completed by November 2024, covering the planning period of 2025-2050.

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