Thanks for inviting me as you break ground on the I-635 East project. 

Governor Abbott, Senator Cornyn, Chairman Bugg and TxDOT Executive  Director Bass have done a great job laying the groundwork for the future of Texas. 

Over the  past several years, the strong Texas economy sparked unprecedented population growth. 

The Dallas area now has over 1.3 million people, which has increased road congestion and doubled travel time for local drivers. 

The traffic congestion not only costs time and money, but also adds risk to the traveling public and the department supports road improvement projects that reduce these risks because safety is our number one priority.

Governor Abbott and everyone at TxDOT have our thanks for implementing the Texas Clear Lanes initiative to identify and address the state's most congested roads.

Commissioner Bugg and his task force marked the 11-mile stretch of I-635 from highway 75 to interstate 30 as a critical chokepoint.  

We are proud to partner with Governor Abbott and Senator Cornyn to provide over 1.3 billion  dollars in federal funding for this project.

Thanks to the many workers who made it possible, the improvements will expand lane capacity, enhance mobility and connectivity, increase safety  and reduce travel time. 

By spending less time in traffic, this project will save Texas drivers nearly 54 hours and eleven hundred dollars each year. 

So congratulations on keeping the  roads safe and traffic moving in Texas.