Relating to a grant program for municipal pedestrian infrastructure administered by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs.
Impact
The program will create a dedicated grant fund in the general revenue, composed of legislative appropriations, donations, and federal grants. This funding will be allocated to municipalities that meet certain criteria designed to ensure that the public purpose of the grants is achieved. Should this bill pass, it will likely enhance the legal framework surrounding municipal funding for pedestrian-related projects, providing a clearer pathway for cities to improve infrastructure while receiving state support.
Summary
House Bill 784, introduced by Representative Gervin-Hawkins, establishes a grant program specifically aimed at enhancing municipal pedestrian infrastructure within Texas. The bill seeks to provide financial assistance to municipalities for the construction of essential pedestrian facilities such as sidewalks, curbs, and pedestrian lighting. This program will be administered by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs, ensuring that municipalities have access to resources necessary for improving pedestrian safety and accessibility across the state.
Contention
One notable point of contention surrounding HB 784 may revolve around the allocation of state resources and the extent of control imposed by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs over the grant process. Critics might argue that over-regulation from the state could hinder municipalities from implementing projects that address local needs promptly. Nonetheless, proponents of the bill emphasize the necessity of maintaining some oversight to ensure the effective use of public funds in enhancing community safety through improved pedestrian infrastructure.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Government Code
Chapter 2306. Texas Department Of Housing And Community Affairs
Relating to a grant program for neighborhood organization pedestrian infrastructure administered by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs.
Relating to the collection and publication of affordable housing information by certain municipalities and the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs.
Relating to the establishment of a program administered by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs and certain county housing authorities to incentivize landlords to accept tenants participating in the housing choice voucher program.
Relating to the establishment by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs of a pilot program to solicit donations made by text message for the benefit of local programs that provide services to homeless individuals and families in certain municipalities.
Relating to the administration by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs of a homeless housing and services program for youth and young adults.