Inside scoop: Texas Transportation Commission Sept. 2023
AUSTIN — Here’s a look at what’s happening at TxDOT.
Seaport infrastructure development
The Texas Transportation Commission met Sept. 28, 2023 and approved $240 million in funding for 31 projects for the state’s ports. The funding includes $200 million for 12 port development and infrastructure projects through the Maritime Infrastructure Program, which will fund truck queuing areas, dock rehabilitation and expansion and rail expansion. Read more about this historic, first-of-its-kind funding.
The Commission also approved $40 million for 19 state highway and other public transportation roadway projects through the Seaport Connectivity Program, which will improve connectivity, enhance safety and relieve congestion in areas near the state’s maritime ports.
Also during Thursday’s meeting, the Commissioners voted to appoint Charles Hausmann to the Port Authority Advisory Committee. Hausmann is the port director at Calhoun Port Authority.
Hausmann will join the nine-member PAAC, which develops the biennial Texas Port Mission Plan alongside the Maritime Division, advises the Texas Transportation Commission and TxDOT on maritime transportation matters, and recommends projects to the Commission for funding or approval.
Aviation improvement and maintenance
Dan Harmon, director of TxDOT’s Aviation Division, presented the new Aviation Capital Improvement Program, which will fund 190 airport development projects in the next three years. $203 million will go toward 107 airport development projects in the coming fiscal year.
The Commission granted approval for up to $100,000 in state funds to be given to state airports to be used for routine maintenance and development. Click here for a list of the eligible airports.
Routine grants totaling just under $63 million were awarded for 28 capital improvement projects.
The Commission also awarded 68 highway improvement projects valued at $624 million and 53 routine maintenance projects valued at $57 million.
The agenda for this meeting along with a recording can be found online.