Tucker Ferguson’s very information speech started with an explanation of the four missions of the Texas Department of Transportation.

 

First:  To maintain a safe system

Second:  To address congestion

Third:  Connect Texas communities, people and

           businesses

Fourth: Assure that the best in class state          

            performance measures are in place and

            impact economic development.

 

This eight county District has 2400 miles, 1500 bridges and 275 employees.  The major projects ongoing at this time, of which we are all aware due to road delays: 

The last of these projects will be completed under a program to improve air quality and reduce emissions.

 

Rainbow and Veteran’s Memorial bridges are due for bridge maintenance and repairs.  A third loop around Houston, the Grand Parkway, will have an impact on Liberty and Chambers County and run 37 miles.  Bids will be let in 2016 to widen IH-10 from Winnie to Beaumont’s Walden Road.

 

There will be additional projects (30-50) determined under the new statewide vote to pass Proposition One to utilize funds from the rainy day fund in the amount of 1.7 billion dollars.