Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB890

Caption

Relating to the inclusion in a toll project construction plan of a plan for the construction of adjacent nontolled lanes.

Impact

The implications of SB890 could be significant for transportation planning in Texas. By mandating the construction of nontolled lanes alongside toll roads, the bill seeks to balance revenue generation from tolls with public accessibility to roadways. Legislators and local governments will have to revisit existing toll project plans to accommodate these requirements, potentially leading to increased costs and delays in project execution. State infrastructure and traffic management strategies could also shift as transportation entities adapt to the new regulations.

Summary

Senate Bill 890 introduces a requirement for toll projects within Texas to include plans for adjacent nontolled lanes. Specifically, the bill stipulates that any governing body of a toll project entity must provide a construction plan that includes a minimum of one nontolled lane in each direction alongside the toll lanes. Furthermore, it prohibits these entities from collecting tolls until the nontolled lanes are open to traffic. This legislation aims to ensure that toll projects do not restrict access to essential roadways for those who may not wish to pay tolls, effectively promoting better traffic flow and accessibility.

Contention

During discussions around SB890, concerns were raised about the financial impact on toll entities and the potential for delays in road construction projects. Opponents argued that mandatory nontolled lanes may complicate project planning and finance, while supporters championed the bill as a necessary move to prevent monopolistic toll access and support community mobility. The requirement could also incite debates over funding sources for these adjacent nontolled lanes, particularly in areas that traditionally rely heavily on toll revenue for infrastructure improvements.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3822

Relating to the construction of nontolled frontage roads adjacent to certain toll projects.

TX HB3889

Relating to the handling of bids on certain construction contracts for highway projects and buildings.

TX HB4551

Relating to a required water quality permit for construction of a high-speed rail project.

TX HB1787

Relating to the method used to select engineers and general contractors for certain state highway construction projects.

TX SB2504

Relating to the method used to select engineers and general contractors for certain state highway construction projects.

TX HB2977

Relating to the awarding of contracts by the Texas Department of Transportation for certain materials used in road construction projects.

TX HB3406

Relating to workers' compensation insurance coverage and bid bonding requirements for small municipal construction projects.

TX HB406

Relating to who may request a public hearing from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality related to the construction of a concrete plant.

TX HB407

Relating to who may request a public hearing from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality related to the construction of a concrete plant.

TX SB1175

Relating to who may request a public hearing from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality related to the construction of a concrete plant.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.