Texas is moving forward with a $146 billion plan to expand and maintain highways, with projects aimed at easing traffic and boosting safety.
WACO, Texas — Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced a 10-year plan led by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to improve roads and address traffic congestion as Texas’ population continues to grow.
TxDOT’s plan currently has a projected investment of over $146 billion.
“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 believes the plan can help attract families and businesses to the Lone Star State.
“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,” New said. “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, connecting people and providing congestion relief.”
The Texas Transportation Commission approved the 2026 Unified Transportation Program (UTP) on Thursday. The UTP includes $101.6 billion for projects over the next 10 years to improve safety, connect communities and encourage a robust economy. It also includes nearly $45 billion for development and routine maintenance.
“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,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said. “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 latest UTP marks the third consecutive year in which the plan exceeds $100 billion.
A breakdown of parts of the UTP plan, specifically addressing Waco area projects, is below:
- $45 million for widening SS 298 (Franklin Avenue) in McLennan County from US 84 to SL 396 (Valley Mills Drive)
- $223 million for the construction of the Hamilton relief route serving thru traffic on US 281 and SH 36
- $115 million for the widening of US 190 Copperas Cove Relief Route from Fort Hood to the Lampasas County Line.
Details on the plan
Many of the projects identified within the 2026 UTP include roads in Texas’ 100 Most Congested Roadways list published by the Texas A&M Transportation Institute.
Texas Clear Lanes congestion-relief projects are slated to see a $2 billion funding increase, supporting the $84 billion total investment for completed, under-construction and planned non-tolled projects since 2015. Additionally, it includes a nearly $17 billion investment in safety and an additional $669 million in funding for rural corridors and key roadways in economic hubs.