The Texas Department of Transportation is seeking the public’s opinion on its 10-year transportation plan.
The Unified Transportation Program (UTP) guides transportation project development across the state by authorizing the distribution of construction funds. The plan is divided into 12 funding categories based on the type of work involved.
“The UTP provides a road map to help develop projects around Texas to improve safety, address congestion and connectivity, and preserve roadways for Texas drivers. The UTP also addresses public transportation, maritime, aviation, rail, freight and international trade, and bicycle and pedestrian connectivity. TxDOT works with its transportation partners to identify projects to be included in the UTP and updates it every year,” reads a press release.
“TxDOT staff has worked closely with their [Metropolitan Planning Organization] partners and the Texas Transportation Commission to prioritize and select projects in their regions based on regional needs,” TxDOT official Christopher Lee said at a public hearing, reported KBTX. ”Every scenario involves trade-offs, but ultimately the commission selects the distribution that is projected to achieve the best balance of outcomes in safety, preservation, and system performance.”
The draft 2025 UTP proposes $104.2 billion in transportation spending, marking the second year in a row that the plan exceeds $100 billion in spending. The UTP must be approved by the Texas Transportation Commission.
“The UTP serves as TxDOT’s strategic 10-year blueprint for advancing projects statewide,” said Marc Williams, executive director. “Collaborating with our transportation partners and communities ensures that we continue connecting you with Texas while prioritizing safety, delivery, innovation, and stewardship.”
The public comment period begins July 5 and ends August 5 at 4 p.m. Click here to learn about various ways to submit comments.
TxDOT also invites the public to offer comments during a virtual public hearing on July 31 at 2 p.m. The public may join the meetings virtually by phone or online at TxDOT.gov.