AUSTIN, TX -- Today, the Texas Transportation Commission (Commission) met and took action on items that benefit Nueces and Jim Wells Counties. The projects are included in the Texas Department of Transportation's (TxDOT) 2021 Unified Transportation Program (UTP) adopted unanimously by the Commission earlier today. The UTP includes all transportation projects that TxDOT is developing for construction over the next ten years and guides the development of those projects.

The Commission unanimously approved the 2021 Unified Transportation Program which includes the following projects:

Nueces County:

• $30 million to widen SH 286 in Corpus Christi from SH 358 to Horne Rd. (New Authorization)
• $18 million to widen FM 624 in Corpus Christi from CR 73 to Wildcat Dr. (New Authorization)
• $40 million funding maintained to upgrade SH 286 to freeway standards in Corpus Christi from FM 43 to South of FM 2444.
• $35 million funding maintained for freeway ramps at SH 358 in Corpus Christi from Nile Drive to Staples St.

Jim Wells County

• $90 million funding maintained to upgrade US 281 in Alice to freeway standard from Business 281R N to Business 281R S.
• $25 million funding maintained to upgrade US 281 in Alice to freeway standards at US 281 at CR 116 & 117 intersection.

These projects are in addition to the ongoing $1 billion Harbor Bridge replacement project, the $50.7 million SH 358 (SPID) eastbound ramp reversal in Corpus Christi, the $118 million US 77/I 69 Driscoll Relief route, and the $72 million for the US 281 interstate upgrade/relief route in Premont in Jim Wells County.

Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa issued the following statement:

"As we continue dealing with the Coronavirus pandemic, we must also move forward with investing in our transportation infrastructure. Infrastructure is key to continue the economic growth of the Coastal Bend and to help us rebound quickly from the economic downturn. I appreciate the Texas Transportation Commission's unanimous vote today to approve the 2021 Unified Transportation Program.

The Coastal Bend legislative delegation has been working closely with the Commission and TxDOT leadership to make our priorities known and to continue advocating for additional investments in transportation infrastructure projects in our region. Our efforts have led to more than $1 billion in ongoing construction projects in the region and with the additional projects authorized today, the Commission and TxDOT leadership continue to show their support and commitment to Corpus Christi and the counties in TxDOTs Corpus Christi District. These state investments create jobs, strengthen our economy, and advance our transportation infrastructure for future growth."

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