AUSTIN, TX — Today, the Texas Transportation Commission (Commission) approved $200 million for new construction projects in Hidalgo County. The funds will come from TxDOT under the 2019 Unified Transportation Program (UTP) which authorizes projects involving highways, aviation, public transportation, and state and coastal waterways for construction, development and planning activities.

The following new construction projects were approved for Hidalgo County:

$126 million to construct an overpass on US 83 at FM 2221, Tom Gill Rd., & Liberty Blvd.
$20 million to construct six lanes with raised median on SH 107 between FM 1924 & SH 495.

In addition to approving the UTP, the Commission approved an agenda item authorizing the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to issue a request for proposals for the Pharr Interchange. This is the next step following the request for qualifications (RFQ) that was approved in May of this year. Three proposer teams responded to the RFQ, and now TxDOT will request proposals from a short list of qualified teams. The Commission also increased funding for the Pharr Interchange project, bringing total project funding to $322 million.

Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa issued the following statement:

"As one of the fastest growing regions of the state, infrastructure is key to continue the economic growth of South Texas. I appreciate the Commission and TxDOT leadership for working with me and our community leaders to continue their support of our transportation needs. The new approved projects, the increased funding for current projects, and the approval of the request for proposals for the Pharr Interchange will greatly benefit the Rio Grande Valley.

This is just the beginning of significant transportation infrastructure investments that are planned for Hidalgo County. Within the next four years, there will be $371 million worth of construction projects. Within five to ten years, we expect to have more than $1 billion in transportation and infrastructure projects."

Hidalgo County Judge Ramon Garcia issued the following statement:

"I want to thank the Texas Transportation Commission for authorizing this request. The I-2/I-69C Interchange Project is crucial to the future of the Rio Grande Valley. I want to especially thank Senator Hinojosa for his leadership and effort in attaining approval and funding this Project and future transportation projects in Hidalgo County."

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