The plan before the pavement
May 12, 2026
By Cynthia Vaquera
AUSTIN — The roads we travel every day in Texas don't start with concrete, equipment and signs. They start with a vision, a strategic roadmap for the future that connects our communities safely, efficiently and with a purpose.
That vision begins long before a project reaches the design or construction phase. One of the people helping turn that vision into reality is Transportation Planning and Programming Director Humberto “Tito” Gonzalez, Jr.
Gonzalez doesn't wear a hard hat or steel-toed boots. His work happens earlier in the process, where decisions are made about which projects should move forward, why they are prioritized, and how they will impact safety, mobility and the quality of life across the state.
“I've been very fortunate, to see the development process from both sides of the fence,” Gonzalez said. “First, working at the district and now serving as a division director.”
With experience at both the local and statewide level, he leads with a broad perspective. His division collaborates with districts, regional partners, and state and federal agencies to ensure that every investment responds to real transportation needs.
"Our intent is to really set planning and programming initiatives and guidelines for the state," Gonzalez said.
While his work is not always visible, its impact is significant. Every project that reaches construction goes through a rigorous and collaborative process built on data, strategy and teamwork.
And while many only see the orange cones and temporary traffic, Gonzalez sees something more. For him, a road is built twice: first in the planning process and then at the construction site.
“There's a lot of the work that's done behind the scenes that a lot of people don't see,” he said. “But it's necessary to make sure that once projects to go to construction, they've been properly vetted, selected, and we know that they're going to meet the need of the traveling public.”
Every mile built is more than infrastructure. It represents the trust that millions of Texans place in TxDOT. That's why Gonzalez leads with responsibility and a strong sense of purpose. Success, for him, is measured not only in miles, but in safety and lasting impact.
"Safety is always our utmost important and paramount in every single project that we do," he said.
TxDOT is currently experiencing the most active construction period in the state's history. And it all begins with a plan.
