February 2016
Congestion-relief plan could bring DFW millions
A new program intended to improve traffic flow through North Texas and other major metropolitan areas could expedite several major projects. Governor Greg Abbott wants to create a congestion-relief fund and distribute $1.3 billion to Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio and Austin. Locally, that translates to an additional $527.8 million for three projects in the western and two in the eastern parts of the region.
Southern Gateway, a $655 million rebuild of part of Interstate Highway 35E and US Highway 67, is expected to receive $264 million in congestion relief from the state, according to information presented to the Regional Transportation Council in January. In addition, the RTC has pledged $243 million toward the project. Another project, Lowest Stemmons (IH 35E from IH 30 to north of Oak Lawn), would get $100 million. In the west, the State Highway 121/SH 360 interchange could receive $60 million, the full cost of the project. Improvements to SH 199 would receive $56.5 million, while Loop 820 (from SH 121 to Randol Mill Road would be assisted with $20.5 million in congestion relief, if the Texas Transportation Commission approves the RTC recommendations. Much of the funding for this project ($90 million) would come from savings being made to IH 35W and Texas Department of Transportation bridge funds. FWTAexas Transportation Commission is expected to consider projects when it meets in February. TTC Commissioner Bruce Bugg Jr. discussed the governor’s plan during a special meeting of the RTC on January 20. Bugg also held several listening sessions across the state in advance of the commission’s consideration of the program. Bugg said the governor’s congestion-relief efforts will continue to help the state improve quality of life and the economy. “This is not a one and done deal,” Bugg said. “This is a long-term, well-thought-through project.” |
nctcog.org/localmotion
$527.8 million
The amount expected to come to Dallas-Fort Worth to advance projects as part of Governor Greg Abbott’s congestion-relief plan.
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