Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott has announced a 10-year transportation plan with an investment exceeding $146 billion. Developed by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), the initiative aims to address the needs of Texas’ increasing population and expanding economy through upgrades to local roads and major congestion relief projects.

“This more than $146 billion investment in our roadways will help Texas meet the critical needs of our growing state as more people and businesses move here for the freedom and opportunity they can’t find anywhere else,” said Governor Abbott. “We must strengthen our roadways and improve congestion and safety to keep our economy booming and keep Texans moving. By investing billions of dollars in our transportation network today, we will build the future of Texas for generations to come."

Acting Texas Transportation Chair Alvin New highlighted the significance of the plan, stating, “It’s no question why so many businesses and families want to move to Texas, and this monumental investment will help us take care of everyone here while attracting more to come in the future. I want to thank Governor Abbott and the Texas Legislature for this investment that will provide lasting benefits for all Texans, focusing on saving lives and providing congestion relief.”

TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams emphasized the collaborative nature of the Unified Transportation Program (UTP): “Built with our transportation partners and public feedback from across the state, the UTP will enhance safety, improve mobility, and support our growth over the next 10 years. Whether you live in a rural area or a big city, this plan benefits everyone as we continue to work to move people and goods safely and efficiently, fulfilling our mission of connecting you with Texas.”

The Texas Transportation Commission is set to adopt the 2026 UTP on Thursday. The program allocates $101.6 billion over ten years for projects aimed at improving safety, connecting communities, and supporting economic development—marking three consecutive years where funding has surpassed $100 billion. An additional $45 billion is designated for project development and ongoing maintenance.

Projects targeted by this plan include segments listed among Texas’ 100 Most Congested Roadways. Funding for Texas Clear Lanes congestion-relief projects will increase by nearly $2 billion, contributing to a total investment of $84 billion in non-tolled projects since 2015. The plan also includes close to $17 billion focused on roadway safety improvements as well as an extra $669 million for rural corridors and important routes in economic centers.

The adoption process involved significant public input through comment periods available online at UTP Public Involvement. Each year, TxDOT updates its UTP “road map” which directs development across several modes of transport including highways, public transit, maritime operations, aviation, railroads, freight logistics, international trade routes, as well as bicycle and pedestrian connections.

Further details about the program are available in TxDOT’s published materials.