Fort Bend County commuters know a few things about road construction. Between the orange cones, lane closures and constantly shifting GPS maps, county taxpayers may be wondering exactly how many projects are in progress. The county is currently evaluating mobility projects and deciding whether another bond measure may be on the horizon.

Here are the key takeaways from the mobility discussion held at a Commissioners Court special session workshop on Wednesday.

1. Mobility money is there.

Voters have authorized more than $456 million toward mobility projects through bonds approved in 2000, 2007 and 2013, according to a report compiled by the county engineering office and the auditor’s office. After factoring in interest and premiums, the amount available for mobility projects has risen to approximately $470 million.

2. There may (or may not) be a shortfall.

County Engineer Richard Stolleis estimates total current project expenditures are more than $477 million, which leaves a theoretical $7.5 million shortfall if all projects are completed at their current scope and cost estimates. The shortfall is theoretical because construction costs may have dropped since original estimates were made, Fort Bend County Judge Robert Hebert said during the workshop.

3. Construction delays are inevitable.

Hebert said one of the biggest problems with completing mobility projects is acquiring right-of-way clearances. Other issues include the rapidly changing cost of land and delays with partners when there are joint funding or land use agreements involved.

4. Lists are being made.

The county engineer and county auditor are compiling an itemized list of all current and anticipated projects that fall under the 2000, 2007 and 2013 bond authorizations. Each precinct commissioner is also compiling a list of the most vital mobility projects that need to be completed in the next 5 to 7 years.

5. Mobility is at the forefront of county discussion.

Commissioners will meet for another mobility workshop in mid-January to discuss the itemized report and project lists to decide whether a new bond measure is needed in fall 2017 or spring 2018.

“We’re falling behind the curve, and I won’t in good faith try to fund significant mobility projects out of the operating fund…that would be a fiscal disaster. It puts a premium load on the taxpayer and people will ask intelligent questions why,” Hebert said.