TEXAS, USA — Communities across the Lone Star State are set to experience safer lives thanks to the Texas Transportation Commission's approval of over $345 million for various infrastructure projects.
These initiatives will be encompassing of 83 projects aimed at expanding safety, mobility, and accessibility.
The approved funding will help start the development of sidewalks, bikeways, and other essential infrastructure, creating pathways to schools, workplaces, public transit, and local destinations.
Texas Transportation Commissioner Robert “Robie” Vaughn emphasized the importance of this investment, stating, “This is a major investment in communities across the state that will help make it safer and easier to get around on foot or a bike. This optionality supports safety, active lifestyles, health and wellness, and can provide alternatives to traveling by vehicle.”
According to TxDOT, In 2022, the state recorded 830 pedestrian and 92 bicyclist fatalities, marking a nearly 30% increase over the past five years. The newly approved projects aim to enhance safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and wheelchair users, with 24 projects designated for areas with a significant history of pedestrian accidents.
Texas Transportation Commissioner Alvin New spoke on the pedestrian issue, saying, “People who walk and bike make up about 1 out of every 5 deaths on roadways here in Texas. These projects will help the state move closer toward the goal of zero deaths by giving people a place to walk and bike separate from traffic.”
In the Waco District, over $19 million has been given to eight projects, including sidewalk improvements in Hamilton, Holland, Little River Academy, Mart, Village of Salado, Waco, and Woodway. Additionally, there is a project underway to construct a shared-use path in Morgan’s Point Resort.
All of these projects were selected through a competitive call for proposals from cities and counties across Texas. To view the full list of projects, visit the official Texas Department of Transportation.