Texas approves $138B transport program; El Paso's Montana Avenue Phase 2 gets $100M

The Texas Transportation Commission has approved the 2027 Unified Transportation Program, a $138 billion statewide investment plan that includes $100.49 million for El Paso's Montana Avenue Phase 2 project, according to KVIA.

The program allocates $95 billion for projects across Texas over the next 10 years, with an additional $43 billion designated for development and routine maintenance, the Texas Department of Transportation said.

The Montana Avenue Phase 2 project carries an estimated total cost of $182.5 million. The project will extend expressway lanes and frontage roads from Tierra Este Road to FM 659 (Zaragoza Road), according to El Paso District Engineer Tomas Treviño.

"This investment continues the transformation of Montana Avenue into a safer, more efficient transportation corridor," Treviño said.

Texas Senator Cesar Blanco noted that the 2027 UTP includes $85 million in Category 12 funding for the Montana Avenue project. "This funding is a major win for El Paso and for everyone who has worked for years to move the Montana Avenue project forward," Blanco said in a statement. "This project will improve mobility, help address congestion, and provide a safer, more reliable connection for the families, workers, and businesses that rely on this corridor every day."

Blanco credited years of collaboration between the community, local leaders, and the Texas Transportation Commission in securing the investment. "I look forward to continuing to work together to get Montana Avenue Phase 2 across the finish line," he said.

The UTP encompasses project development aimed at enhancing safety, addressing congestion and connectivity, and preserving roadways. The program also covers public transportation, maritime, aviation, rail, freight, international trade, and bicycle and pedestrian connectivity.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott stated in a prepared comment: "Texas' booming economy and growing population demand a transportation system that keeps people and products moving safely and efficiently. By investing in critical infrastructure today, we are building a bigger, better Texas for generations to come."