TxDOT DECEPTION AT SENATE HEARING

During the Senate transportation hearing held just last Thursday, 3/1/07, the Senate committee asked TxDOT if Texas Interstate Highway 35 could be expanded, as an option to the unpopular Trans Texas Corridor-35 (TTC-35).

TxDOT intentionally deceived the committee by giving an answer that would make it appear unfeasible to expand I35 TxDOT commissioner Ted Houghton told the commission that too much right-of-way would need to be taken along I35.

The fact is, TxDOT produced a study in 19991 that shows exactly how I35 can be expanded by UTILIZING THE EXISTING RIGHT-OF-WAY, with no need for the TTC. According to the study, additional needs for 2025 can be met by using existing ROW, double decking (elevated) or depressed some sections of I-35 and some relief routes (which are already under way - such as SH 130 East of Austin)

This study is a cost effective, common sense alternative to the TTC. Produced in conjunction with FHWA, and the Departments of Transportation in Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, and Minnesota includes cost savings, economic impacts, and cost benefits.

This important executive summery can be found online today, HERE.