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Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa: District 20
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Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 31, 2009
Contact: Arturo Ballesteros
(512) 463-0120 office
(512) 810-1294 cell
Transportation Commission Funds More Projects in South Texas

AUSTIN — The Texas Transportation Commission approved several projects in Hidalgo County on Thursday, August 27. These projects are part of an ongoing effort to improve mobility in South Texas.

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa commented on the importance of these improvements in the region.

"The continued support of the Texas Transportation Commission for South Texas' infrastructure is streamlining commerce and helping the Rio Grande Valley attract new investment. Earlier this year alone, the commission approved measures to bring Highway 281 up to interstate standards. By working closely with the leadership at the commission, we now have additional projects coming online to complement other developments."

The Commission approved two projects in Hidalgo County, including $11 million for roadway improvements at the intersection of Bryan Road and Trinity Street, as well as $10 million for an underpass/overpass at the US Highway 83 and Bryan Road intersection. These projects will greatly improve safety and provide improved access to the areas around Mission Hospital.

The Lower Rio Grande Development Council was also awarded $244,000 in federal stimulus funds to improve its Rural Transit System. In addition, the commission will also fund several contracts totaling $20.2 million for the counties in Senate District 20, including $1.6 million to resurface FM 491 in Hidalgo County from Business 83 to the International Floodway Levee.

Additionally, the South Texas International Airport at Edinburg was one of the airports recommended for projects under the Aviation Capital Improvement Program, where the airport would receive funds to build and maintain Taxi Ways to alleviate congestion. The Routine Airport Maintenance Program now also includes the South Texas International Airport at Edinburg and the McAllen Miller International Airport, allowing the Texas Department of Transportation to match local funds for airport maintenance and improvements.

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