From TxDOT:
As
Texas continues to lead the nation in job creation, ensuring the state's
infrastructure can withstand the boom in business is critical now more than
ever. Today, the Texas Department of Transportation updated lawmakers on the
progress of the Interstate 69 corridor and announced new
federal designation of more than 28 miles of existing highway around Houston
(link to video and photos of today's announcement is below). Being developed on
existing roadways as a critical artery for moving freight, I-69 will ultimately
become a 1,600 mile-long highway stretching from Michigan to Texas.
"I-69
represents a vital component in our thriving and growing economy, not just in
eastern Texas or in South Texas but across the entire state" Gov. Rick Perry
said. "The quality of our transportation system plays a decisive role when
employers consider expanding or relocating here. That's why we need to continue
investing in infrastructure projects like I-69."
"Interstate
69 is important in providing safety, mobility and connectivity between rural
and urban Texas" said Commissioner Jeff Austin, Texas Transportation
Commission. "The Interstate links three major east- and west-Texas
interstates: I-10, I-20 and I-30, and provides a critical national
connection as well."
From
north to south Texas, communities across the state will see the economic
benefits of I-69. The interstate is expected to be a critical artery for moving
agricultural, energy and industrial exports through the nation and beyond. It
is also expected to attract more businesses to the Lone Star State.
"Economic
development, commerce, safety and quality of life are all tangible benefits
Texans will experience with the development of I-69," said Phil Wilson, TxDOT
executive director. "The I-69 expansion can mean growth for communities in
Texas and attract businesses that want to move products in all directions
throughout Texas and the nation."
Additionally,
due to its proximity to our sea ports, I-69 will serve as a vital artery for
exporting Texas products.
"Texas'
ports are perfectly positioned to make Texas a global gateway that will keep our
economy booming for years to come and the connectivity I-69 provides is
critical in making that a reality," said Harris County Judge Ed Emmett, chair
of the Panama Canal Stakeholder Working Group and member of the I-69 Segment
Committee.
More
about I-69
Significant
progress has been made on I-69 since the legislature last convened in 2011. The
first sections of I-69 (now totaling 70 miles) have been designated as part of
the national Interstate Highway System with approximately 130 additional miles
of existing highway currently under consideration for designation.
Additionally, more than $600 million dollars have been dedicated to studies and
project development for I-69 Texas.
The
success in developing I-69 is attributed to the partnership between federal,
state and local leaders, the I-69 Advisory and Segment Committees, the Alliance
for I-69 Texas and TxDOT.
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2013 WorldNow and KLTV, a Raycom Media Station.
