Inside scoop: Texas Transportation Commission Dec. 2023

Dec. 13, 2023

By: Laura Butterbrodt and Ryan LaFontaine

AUSTIN - Here’s a look at what TxDOT is working on lately.

Highway designations

The second South Padre Island causeway project is moving forward in development as the Texas Transportation Commission added the future roadway, SH 104, to the state highway system.

The designation opens additional funding sources to accelerate development and construction of the new bridge and roadway, to be built between FM 106 and Park Road 100 on South Padre Island.

“The commission action today was an important first step for the planning, development and construction of the second causeway project,” said Texas Transportation Commissioner Alex Meade. “Like other projects around the state, if the second causeway project moves forward after the environmental review process it will require a significant partnership between TxDOT and local entities, including the CCRMA and the Rio Grande Valley MPO. Local partners will need to participate in providing significant local funding along with TxDOT funding to fund this project.”

Energy sector update

Transportation officials gave an update on TxDOT’s ongoing efforts in the state’s energy producing regions. Increases in funding have allowed TxDOT to plan for more transportation projects.

Prior to 2017, the 10-year plan Unified Transportation Program did not exceed $40 billion. Today, the 2024 UTP totals more than $100 billion. Of that, $22.6 billion will go to fund transportation projects in the energy producing areas of Texas.

Safety improvements will include additional passing lanes on 2-lane highways, bridge enhancements, road widening and rehabilitating interchanges.

The energy sector is vital to not only the Texas economy, but also the nation. Texas is number one in energy production. While challenges remain with safety, congestion and roadway preservation, TxDOT has been and will continue to respond to the needs of the energy sector and the citizens of Texas.

Acknowledgement of service

The Commission recognized TxDOT Design Division Director Marisabel Ramthun for 25 years of service as she retires.

Ramthun has managed and led numerous projects during her tenure at TxDOT, including the Mobility35 efforts for I-35 expansion funding in Austin, the SH 71 Express Toll Design Build Project and the design of segmental twin bridges on U.S. 281 over the Colorado River in Marble Falls.

She also led the transformation for the delivery of digital 3D files from design to construction and was responsible for developing statewide design policies and guidelines for geometric roadway design criteria, roadside safety evaluations, design standards, hydraulic design and landscape programs.

Ramthun was also honored for her leadership and dedication as a woman advancing transportation in the public sector in central Texas in 2023 by WTS Heart of Texas Chapter.

Contracts

The Commission also approved the following:

Approximately $648 million for 52 highway improvements and other transportation facility projects.
Approximately $89 million for 63 routine maintenance projects.
$5.9 million for five capital improvement projects for airport development and improvement.
A $10.8 million State Infrastructure Bank loan to Sardis Lone Elm Water Supply Company for utility relocation near FM 664 in Ellis County.

Read the agenda from the Dec. 12 Commission meeting.