AUSTIN, TX — On Thursday, the Texas Transportation Commission (Commission) met and took action on items that benefit Nueces County. The projects are included in the Texas Department of Transportation's (TxDOT) 2023 Unified Transportation Program (UTP) adopted unanimously by the Commission. 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 2023 Unified Transportation Program which includes the following projects:

Nueces County:

• $52 million to upgrade SH 286 in Corpus Christi from FM 43 to South of FM 2444. The funding for this project was increased by $10.4 million to fund the $52 million project.
• $28 million to widen SH 286 in Corpus Christi from SH 358 to Horne Rd. This is a New Authorization project.
• $40 million for freeway ramps on SH 358 from Nile Drive to Staples St.
• $21.3 million to widen FM 624 from CR 73 to Wildcat Dr.
• $17.9 million for safety and operational improvements to Park Road 22 from Aquarius St. to Whitecap Blvd.

These projects are in addition to the ongoing $1 billion Harbor Bridge replacement project, the $50.7 million for the SH 358 (SPID) eastbound ramp reversal in Corpus Christi, and a regular maintenance budget of $51 million.

Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa issued the following statement:

"Infrastructure is key to continue the economic growth of the Coastal Bend. I appreciate the Texas Transportation Commission's unanimous vote to approve the 2023 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 and the approved 2023 UTP includes another $2.3 billion in planned projects over the next ten years. The Commission and TxDOT leadership continue to show their support and commitment to Corpus Christi and the counties in TxDOTs Corpus Christi District. These investments in our transportation infrastructure create jobs, strengthen our economy, and prepare us for future growth."

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