35th Legislature

— The earliest program of cooperation between TxDOT and a university is described in Vernon’s Texas Civil Statutes (VTCS), Article 6904 1/2 l, as legislated in 1917. This law stated that the laboratories of Texas A&M University and The University of Texas would be at the disposal of the Highway Engineer for testing and analyzing road and bridge material.

September 29, 1948

— Commission Minute Order No. 25396 was passed providing for a research program between the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas (now Texas A&M University) and the Texas Highway Department (now TxDOT).

May 24, 1963

— Commission Minute Order No. 52742 was passed, authorizing the State Highway Engineer to enter into agreement with such other qualified Texas schools and universities under the terms of Minute Order No. 25396.

May 13, 1997

— Texas Legislature passed Senate Bill 698, which broadened TxDOT's authority to contract with Texas colleges and universities for transportation related research.