By LAURIE COKER
editor@portisabelsouthpadre.com
The Texas Transportation Commission’s approval marks a significant milestone for the South Padre Island 2nd Causeway project in Cameron County. After nearly two decades of advocacy and advancement by Cameron County leadership and surrounding communities, the project is now set to become a Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) On-System project following the commission’s approval of a Minute Order (legal term for describing a court’s answer to a party’s motion.).
The On-System designation is a pivotal development for the project, placing it on the State Highway System and under the maintenance of TxDOT, according to the press release from Cameron County Judge Eddie Treviño Jr.’s office. As per the press release, this designation is deemed crucial for the project’s economic development and opens doors to various funding sources to expedite its development and eventual construction.
Treviño, Jr. expressed gratitude to Governor Abbott, TxDOT Chairman Bruce Bugg, and the Members of the Transportation Commission, along with TxDOT Administration and the Rio Grande Valley delegation in Austin, for supporting the transition of the South Padre Island 2nd Causeway project to a TxDOT On-System project in a statement from the press release. He emphasized the importance of the project for the region, noting its positive economic impact, enhancement of traffic flow, support for evacuation processes, promotion of public safety, and contribution to maintaining the continuity of the Texas State Highway System.
Treviño added, “The fact that TxDOT has brought this project On-System demonstrates the importance and significance of the project to the State of Texas.”
David Fuentes, Chairman of the Rio Grande Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), highlighted the much-needed benefits of the South Padre Island 2nd Causeway project, stating, “The South Padre Island 2nd Causeway project is a much-needed project that will provide safety and economic benefits to the region and the entire state.”
Governor Greg Abbott commended the Texas Transportation Commission for their collaborative efforts, saying, “By adding this location to the state highway system, the State of Texas will help this roadway project receive the crucial environmental clearance to move forward.”
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