State invests approximately $1.5B in Austin-area roadway improvements

Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas Department of Transportation recently announced a 10-year transportation plan that will invest almost $140 billion in roadway improvements across the state. 

The framework

The Texas Transportation Commission approved the 2027 Unified Transportation Program at an August meeting. The funding includes $95 billion for projects across the state and $43 billion for development and routine maintenance. The investment is expected to improve safety, reduce congestion and strengthen the supply chain.

“This 10-year plan reflects the scale and complexity of meeting Texas’ transportation needs in one of the fastest-growing states in the nation,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said in a news release. “It is focused on practical outcomes—improving safety, preserving the system we have, and supporting reliable movement for people and goods.”

The 2027 UTP allocates over $1.5 billion for Austin-area projects, including improvements to I-35 in Travis County and SH 71 in Bastrop County.

A closer look

Many of the projects in the 2027 UTP are identified on Texas’ 100 Most Congested Roadways list, according to the news release.

“Texas’ booming economy and growing population demand a transportation system that keeps people and products moving safely and efficiently,” Abbott said in a news release. “This $138 billion investment will strengthen our roadways, reduce congestion, improve safety and support growing communities across Texas.”

In addition to roadways, the plan includes public transportation, maritime, aviation, rail, freight, international trade, bicycle and pedestrian connectivity projects.