Recognizing Texas Department of Transportation District 21 for its service to the people of South Texas.
The resolution serves to honor the continued efforts of the Texas Department of Transportation District 21 in enhancing transportation infrastructure across the counties it serves, namely Brooks, Cameron, Willacy, Hidalgo, Starr, Jim Hogg, Zapata, and Kenedy. The recognition affirms the district's crucial role in planning and constructing adequate public road networks essential for local residents and businesses. It emphasizes the agency's historical context, overcoming challenges such as flooding and the evolving needs of the region's infrastructural demands.
Senate Resolution No. 571 recognizes the Texas Department of Transportation's District 21 for its service to the people of South Texas and commemorates its centennial since its original establishment. The resolution highlights the historical significance of the district, tracing its origins back to 1917 when it was formed as the Texas Highway Department, tasked with the building and maintenance of state roadways. The first major construction project undertaken was a 20-mile section between Falfurrias and Encino, completed in 1920, which is now part of U.S. Route 281.
While the resolution is largely celebratory, it represents an opportunity for local government officials and constituents to discuss the ongoing challenges facing transportation infrastructure in the area. As District 21 continues to evolve in response to regional needs, discussions may arise regarding funding, maintenance priorities, and future projects that require attention to ensure sustained progress beyond the centennial milestone. Overall, SR571 reflects a collective acknowledgment of the importance of effective transportation systems to the growth and development of South Texas.