AUSTIN – The Texas Transportation Commission convened on May 23, 2024, to discuss and approve several significant initiatives. Among the key decisions was the adoption of TxDOT’s 2025-2029 Strategic Plan. Erika Kemp, TxDOT director of strategic initiatives and innovation, presented the plan to the Commissioners.
The Strategic Plan outlines the agency’s mission, vision, goals, and overall direction. It serves as a foundation for developing the biennial budget request and emphasizes four priorities: Safety, Delivery, Innovation, and Stewardship. Additionally, it includes plans for capital improvement, workforce development, customer service reports, and identifies redundancies and impediments.
The Commission also reviewed the Legislative Appropriations Request (LAR) for Fiscal Year 2026-27. The request proposes a capital budget of $842.7 million allocated across various categories such as construction and rehabilitation of buildings/facilities; acquisition of land, property, and equipment; technology; and cybersecurity. Notably, the LAR indicates an increase of 1,257 full-time equivalent employees from Fiscal Year 2016-17 to Fiscal Year 2024-25.
Further components of the 2026-27 Legislative Appropriations Request will be discussed in upcoming Commission meetings in June, July, and August.
In other business matters:
- The Commission approved $14.8 million for airport improvement and preservation projects at 14 airports. This funding comprises federal non-primary entitlement grant funds, federal apportionment grant funds, federal Infrastructure Investment Job Act grant funds, and state grant funds.
- Contracts were awarded totaling $1.76 billion for 78 highway improvement projects.
- An additional $44 million was allocated for 35 routine maintenance projects.
- Seven building construction and maintenance projects received approval with a budget of $1.9 million.
