Texas House Bill HB2217

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to a study by the Texas Department of Transportation of the feasibility of certain improvements to Interstate Highway 27.

Impact

The study required by HB2217 is intended to assess not only the logistical issues involved in extending the highway but also the associated costs. As a result, this could potentially lead to significant changes in transportation policy and funding allocations concerning interstate roadways in Texas, should the extensions be deemed viable. Moreover, the outcome of this study may influence future discussions regarding transportation priorities in the state, especially in the context of enhancing access and mobility in the Panhandle region.

Summary

House Bill 2217 mandates the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to conduct a comprehensive study on the feasibility of extending Interstate Highway 27. The bill specifies multiple segments for consideration: extending the highway from its northern terminus to Dumas, and further to Stratford and the Oklahoma border, as well as from Dumas to Dalhart and the New Mexico border. This initiative underscores a legislative focus on improving state transportation infrastructure, which is critical for both regional connectivity and economic development.

Contention

While specific contentious discussions surrounding HB2217 are not detailed in the available documents, bills related to infrastructure improvements can often provoke debates about funding sources, environmental impacts, and community effects. Stakeholders may have differing views on whether such improvements are necessary or beneficial, which can lead to discussions about prioritizing various transportation projects across the state.