Safety Briefing Staff will provide general safety instruction.
Memorial Resolution Resolution to extend sympathy to the family of Michael “Mike” Bailey a 24 year veteran of the San Antonio District
Approval of Minutes of the May 29, 2014 regular meeting of the Texas Transportation Commission
Houston Region Items a. Freight and Multi-Modal Update on Freight Advisory Committee activities b. Green Ribbon Project Overview of the Green Ribbon Project c. Grand Parkway Association Various Counties - Appoint one member to the Grand Parkway Association Board of Directors (MO) State law requires transportation corporations to have a board in which the powers of the corporation reside. The commission shall appoint each director for a term not to exceed six years. This minute order approves the appointment of one member to the Grand Parkway Association Board of Directors. The existing member's six-year term expires July 25, 2014.
Item 5 - Unified Transportation Program
Unified Transportation Program (UTP) Approve updates to the 2014 UTP (MO) The Unified Transportation Program (UTP) is a 10-year statewide plan for transportation project development. The commission approved the 2014 UTP in August 2013 and revisions to the 2014 UTP in December 2013, March 2014 and May 2014. This minute order updates allocations based on funds transfer requests in multiple categories and authorizes funding for project priorities. In addition, this minute order revises project specific program lists, incorporates information regarding transportation development credit awards and remaining balances, and includes minor revisions and technical corrections.
Lincoln Center Discussion regarding the TxDOT property in El Paso known as the Lincoln Center The commission will receive comments regarding the Lincoln Center at the request of the City of El Paso.
Highway Designation Webb County - Designate a segment of the state highway system as I-69W, concurrent with US 59 from I-35 to west of FM 1472 in the city of Laredo (MO) The commission will consider the designation of a segment of the state highway system as I-69W, concurrent with US 59 from I-35 to the US 59 access control approximately 0.6 mile west of Farm-to-Market Road 1472 (World Trade Bridge entrance), a total distance of approximately 1.4 miles. The Laredo Urban Transportation Study Metropolitan Planning Organization, the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, and the Federal Highway Administration have approved the designation of this segment.
Aviation Various Counties - Award federal and state grant funding for airport improvement projects at various locations (MO) Federal law authorizes the award of federal funding to preserve and improve the state's general aviation system. State law authorizes the award of state funding for capital improvement projects. The airports listed in Exhibit A are eligible for award of these grant funds and the department seeks approval of the awards.
Item 9 - Public Transportation
Public Transportation Various Counties - Award federal and state funds, and transportation development credits to Rural Economic Assistance League and Alamo Area Council of Governments (MO) The awards identified in this minute order reflect the award of the balance of federal and state funds and transportation development credits originally awarded to Bee Community Action Agency (BCAA) under several prior actions of the commission. The Rural Economic Assistance League and Alamo Area Council of Governments, now serve as the rural transit districts providing transit service to separate areas previously served by BCAA.
Item 10 - Promulgation of Administrative Rules
Promulgation of Administrative Rules Under Title 43, Texas Administrative Code, and the Administrative Procedure Act, Government Code, Chapter 2001: a. Proposed Adoption (1) Chapter 11 - Design (MO) New §§11.300-11.317 (Transportation Alternatives Program) The proposed sections implement the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) as authorized by the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (also known as MAP-21). The TAP provides funding for a variety of alternative transportation projects, including many that were previously eligible under separately funded programs. (2) Chapter 16 - Planning and Development of Transportation Projects (MO) Amendments to §16.153, Funding Categories, and §16.154, Transportation Allocation Funding Formulas (Transportation Funding) The amendments to §16.153 reflect changes to the descriptions of Category 8 (Safety) and Category 9 (formerly Transportation Enhancements) as needed to implement the Transportation Alternatives Program. The amendments to §16.154 describe the method by which funds will be allocated under Category 9. (3) Chapter 21 - Right of Way (MO) Amendments to §§21.31-21.40 (Utility Accommodation), and new §§21.961-21.968 (Leasing of Right of Way to Saltwater Pipeline Operators) These amendments add new Subchapter R to 43 TAC Chapter 21 to provide leasing requirements to implement Senate Bill 514 of the 83rd Regular Session, which authorized the placement of saltwater pipeline facilities within the right of way by a lease agreement. In addition, minor or non-substantive changes are made to Chapter 21, Subchapter C, Utility Accommodations, to modify definitions and terms of relocation for saltwater pipeline facilities in conformance with Senate Bill 514 provisions. (4) Chapter 27 - Toll Projects (MO) Amendments to §27.80, Definitions, and §27.82, Toll Operations (Operation of Department Toll Projects) These amendments would authorize the executive director of the department or designee to establish toll rates for the use of a department toll project where dynamic pricing is in effect. During the dynamic pricing phase, tolls are continually adjusted according to traffic conditions to maintain a free-flowing level of traffic, generally based on a prescribed algorithm.
Strategic Plan Adopt final 2015-2019 Strategic Plan for official submission to the Legislative Budget Board and Governor's Office (MO) (Presentation) The department’s 2015-2019 Strategic Plan provides the mission, values, goals, objectives, budgetary performance measures, strategies, and key planning contextual information that will direct the department over the next five years. In addition to these core components, the plan includes all of the supplemental components required by the Legislative Budget Board and the Governor’s Office, such as a description of the agency’s planning process, current organizational chart, workforce plan, technology initiative assessment, and a survey of employee engagement. Upon commission approval, department staff will finalize the plan package according to the instructions provided by the Legislative Budget Board and the Governor's Office for official submission of the plan to those entities by the July 7, 2014 deadline.
Item 12 - Office of Compliance, Ethics, and Investigations
Office of Compliance, Ethics, and Investigations Office of Compliance, Ethics, and Investigations Report State law requires the commission to establish a compliance program, which must include a compliance office to oversee the program. The compliance office is responsible for acting to prevent and detect serious breaches of department policy, fraud, waste, and abuse of office, including any acts of criminal conduct within the department. The compliance office is required to provide a monthly report to the commission regarding investigations and a summary of information relating to trends and recommendations.
Item 13 - Comprehensive Development Agreements
Comprehensive Development Agreements a. Nueces County - Authorize the department to issue a request for proposals for the development, design, construction, maintenance and, at the department’s option, financing of the US 181 Harbor Bridge Project in Nueces County, between US 181 at Beach Avenue and I-37, and approve a stipulated amount as payment for the work product of unsuccessful proposers (MO) On February 27, 2014, in Minute Order 113853, the commission authorized the department to issue a request for qualifications for the project. This minute order continues the procurement process by authorizing the issuance of a request for proposals for the project, and approves a stipulated amount for the payment of work product of responsive, unsuccessful proposers. Development of the US 181 Harbor Bridge Project is a high priority for the state and will help improve safety conditions in Nueces County. b. Tarrant County - Consider the approval of an interim tolling services agreement with the North Texas Tollway Authority (NTTA) for the DFW Connector Project, along SH 114 from SH 26 to east of International Parkway in Tarrant County (MO) The department has negotiated an interim tolling services agreement with the NTTA, under which the department will provide tolling services for the DFW Connector Project on an interim basis until the consummation of a regional tolling services agreement between the department and the NTTA relating to the DFW Connector Project and certain other projects, or until the NTTA has completed all work required under the agreement to assume responsibility for providing tolling services. During the interim period, the NTTA will be responsible for providing tolling services for transactions involving its customers.
Toll Roads a. Various Counties - Designate the SH 360 Project, providing for the construction of toll lanes and other improvements from approximately 2 miles south of I-20 near East Sublett Road/Camp Wisdom Road to US 287 in Ellis, Tarrant, and Johnson Counties, as a toll project on the state highway system; authorize the department to issue a request for proposals for the development, design, construction, and maintenance of the SH 360 Project; and approve a stipulated amount as payment for the work product of unsuccessful proposers (MO) The department received a finding of no significant impact on January 16, 2014. This minute order designates the SH 360 Project from approximately 2 miles south of I-20 near East Sublett Road/Camp Wisdom to US 287 as a toll project on the state highway system. On February 27, 2014, in Minute Order 113861, the commission authorized the department to issue a request for qualifications for the development, design, construction, and maintenance of the project. This minute order continues the procurement process by authorizing the issuance of a request for proposals for the project, and approves a stipulated amount for the payment of work product of responsive, unsuccessful proposers. b. Travis County - Approve the selection of the proposer who submitted the best value proposal to develop, design, and construct the SH 71 Toll Lanes Project from Presidential Blvd to east of SH 130 in Travis County, and authorize the executive director of the department to execute a Design-Build Agreement with the selected proposer (MO) (Presentation) On March 5, 2014, the department issued a request for proposals to develop, design, and construct the SH 71 Toll Lanes Project from Presidential Blvd to east of SH 130 in Travis County. The department has completed its review and evaluation of proposals, and is presenting its best value recommendation to the commission. c. Various Counties - Authorize the executive director of the department to issue a request for qualifications for the development, design, construction, and potentially, maintenance, and operation of the Segments H, I-1 and all or part of Segment I-2 of the SH 99 (Grand Parkway) in Harris, Liberty, Montgomery, and Chambers Counties (MO) Transportation Code, §223.242 authorizes the department to enter into, in each fiscal year, up to three design-build contracts for highway projects with a construction cost estimate of $50 million or more. The SH 99 (Grand Parkway) Segments H, I-1, and I-2 Project is a high priority for the state and meets the conditions necessary for design-build delivery.
Toll Equity a. Smith County - North East Texas Regional Mobility Authority - Consider preliminary approval of a request from North East Texas Regional Mobility Authority (NET RMA) to convert a toll equity loan in the outstanding principal amount of approximately $55,000,000 to a grant for project costs primarily relating to Segment 3B of Loop 49, locally known as Toll 49 (LP49) and evidenced by a Financial Assistance Agreement dated as of March 1, 2011 (MO) The NET RMA is requesting that the Commission authorize the conversion of the accreted principal value of the approximately $55,000,000 toll equity loan to a grant. The loan proceeds were used by NET RMA primarily for the development and construction of Segment 3B of LP49, from SH 31 north to I-20. The 10-mile toll facility for which financial assistance is being provided includes two lanes of an ultimate four-lane toll road, with connections to the existing LP49 facility at SH 31, and ramp connections to I-20. b. Smith County - North East Texas Regional Mobility Authority - Consider final approval of a request from North East Texas Regional Mobility Authority (NET RMA) for financial assistance in the amount of $3,545,000 for the costs of acquisition and construction of toll equipment for Loop 49, locally known as Toll 49 (LP49) (MO) The Commission granted preliminary approval of NET RMA’s request on May 29, 2014, in Minute Order 113944. NET RMA is requesting financial assistance in the form of a grant to pay for the costs of acquiring and constructing toll equipment for Segments 1, 2, 3A, and 5 of LP49. The project would convert the toll management system equipment to the same toll integrator for all segments of LP49 so the system can operate with greater efficiency.
Item 17 - State Infrastructure Bank Hill County
State Infrastructure Bank Hill County - City of Whitney - Consider granting final approval of an application from the City of Whitney to borrow up to $510,000 from the State Infrastructure Bank (SIB) to pay for relocation of utility lines for the widening of FM 933 from a two lane roadway to a four lane roadway with a continuous left turn lane from FM 1713 proceeding 3 miles south to FM 1244 in Whitney (MO) The City of Whitney is requesting SIB financial assistance to pay for City of Whitney’s costs of relocation of utility lines for the widening of FM 933. The SIB loan will be secured by pledge of ad valorem and sales tax revenues of the City.
Contracts Award or reject contracts for maintenance, highway and building construction These proposed minute orders contain information concerning the receipt of bids for highway improvement contracts. The department may reschedule receipt of bids for those projects where the commission rejects all bids. Those bids accepted by the commission will result in conditional contract awards to the low bidders. Contract award conditions may involve securing funding from other sources, the contractor's ability to satisfy federal DBE subcontracting requirements, or other requirements as outlined in the project bid proposal. (a) Highway Maintenance and Department Building Construction (see attached itemized list) (MO) (b) Highway and Transportation Enhancement Building Construction (see attached itemized list) (MO)
Item 19 - Eminent Domain Proceedings
Eminent Domain Proceedings Various Counties - Authorize the filing of condemnation proceedings to acquire real property by eminent domain for non-controlled and controlled access highways (see attached list) (MO) Commission findings, determinations, and authorizations for the state, by motion made in accordance with Senate Bill 18 (82nd Legislature), to acquire by eminent domain, upon the payment of adequate and just compensation, various ownership interests in specific parcels of real property that are needed to develop or improve both non-controlled and controlled access state highways, to include requesting the state attorney general to bring and pursue condemnation suits relating to those specific parcels of real property described in the attached itemized list.
Item 20 - Routine Minute Orders and Reports
a. Donations to the Department Various Districts - Consider the acknowledgment of donations made to the department to include: (a) donations in any form, including realty, personalty, money, materials, or services, which are made to the department for the purpose of carrying out its functions and duties; and (b) donations from landowners, with land adjacent to a highway that is part of the state highway system, to construct an improvement on the highway right-of-way that is directly related to improving access to or from the owner's land (See attached itemized list) (MO) The donations will ensure the safety of the traveling public. b. Right of Way Dispositions and Donations The commission must approve the sales, transfers, and exchanges of state rights of way and other real properties that are no longer needed for a state highway purpose. It must also approve, accept and acknowledge donations to the state of real property that is valued at $500 or more. (1) Bell County - FM Spur 817 at I-35 in Temple - Consider the removal removal from the system, transfer of control, jurisdiction and maintenance to the city, and quitclaim of land to the city (MO) The district and city have determined that FM Spur 817 functions more as a city street than a highway and have agreed that the highway should be removed from the system and that control, jurisdiction, and maintenance should be transferred to the city. There is no record title to the land, and it may be quitclaimed to the city. (2) Comal County - SH 46, north side, west of Windmill Ranch Road – Consider the sale of a drainage easement (MO) The district has determined that the easement is no longer needed for highway drainage purposes. The property owner has requested to purchase the easement, and it may be sold to the owner. c. Report of Environmental Review of Projects - Accept the semiannual report on projects being processed under the department’s environmental review process (Report) This report is being submitted under Transportation Code, §201.762(a), which requires the department to submit to the commission twice a year a report that identifies projects being processed under the department’s environmental review process. d. Transportation Planning (1) Various Counties - Concurrence with the Regional Transportation Council of the North Central Texas Council of Governments' funding of construction and other project development costs of projects to be advanced through the use of payments received from the North Texas Tollway Authority for the right to develop, finance, design, construct, operate and maintain the SH 121 toll project from Business SH 121 in Denton County to US 75 in Collin County (MO) The department has established a separate fund to account for and track projects and project costs funded with the SH 121 payments. This minute order authorizes the funding of additional projects costs with those payments. The project costs to be funded were selected through a cooperative process with the RTC e. Designation of Access Control (1) Dallas County - I-20, west of JJ Lemmon Road - Consider the designation of two locations on the frontage road at which access will be permitted to the abutting property (MO) The designation of one 49-foot break in the control-of-access line and one 48.5-foot break in the control-of-access line will allow the abutting landowner to open two proposed driveway locations for access to and from the westbound frontage road. The district has determined that access may be permitted at the designated locations. (2) Fort Bend County - US 59, approximately 3600 feet south of University Boulevard to approximately 1300 feet south of University Boulevard – Consider the designation of two locations on the highway at which access will be permitted to the abutting property (MO) The designation of two 80-foot breaks in the control-of-access line will allow the abutting landowner to open two proposed driveway locations for access to and from the northbound frontage road. The district has determined that access may be permitted at the designated locations. (3) Harris County - US 59, approximately 20 feet south of Texas Street - Consider the designation of two locations on the highway at which access will be permitted to the abutting property (MO) The designation of two 45-foot breaks in the control-of-access line will allow the abutting landowner to open a service driveway to the convention center for access underneath the elevated main lanes section (no frontage roads). The district has determined that access may be permitted at the designated locations. (4) San Patricio County - I-37, approximately 800 feet north of SH 459 to approximately 400 feet south of SH 459 - Consider the designation of two locations on the highway at which access will be permitted to the abutting property (MO) The designation of two 100-foot breaks in the control-of-access line will allow the abutting landowner to open two proposed driveway locations for access to and from the southbound frontage road. The district has determined that access may be permitted at the designated locations. e. Designation of Access Control (continued) (5) Williamson County - I-35, approximately 600 feet south of SH 29 to approximately 1300 feet south of SH 29 - Consider the designation of two locations on the highway at which access will be permitted to the abutting property (MO) The designation of a 110-foot break and a 70-foot break in the control-of-access line will allow the abutting landowner to open two proposed driveway locations for access to and from the northbound frontage road. The district has determined that access may be permitted at the designated locations. (6) Williamson County - I-35, approximately 850 feet north of RM 2243 - Consider the designation of a location on the highway at which access will be permitted to the abutting property(MO) The designation of a 110-foot break in the control-of-access line will allow the abutting landowner to open a proposed driveway location for access to and from the northbound frontage road. The district has determined that access may be permitted at the designated location. f. Highway Designations Titus County - In the city of Mount Pleasant, designate a segment of US 67, redesignate a segment of US 67 as State Spur 134, remove the concurrent US 67 designation with SH 49 and remove the US 67 designation along Elsye Street. (MO) This minute order designates a segment of US 67 along the existing alignment from 0.2 mile west of US 271 to Elsye Street, a distance of approximately 0.7 mile, redesignates a segment of US 67 from its existing alignment eastward to the proposed US 271 as State Spur 134, a distance of approximately 0.2 mile, removes the concurrent US 67 designation with State Highway 49 from the proposed US 271 eastward to Elsye Street, a distance of approximately 0.4 mile and removes the US 67 designation along Elsye Street from the existing US 67 southward to the existing US 271, a distance of approximately 0.3 mile. g. Speed Zones Various Counties - Establish or alter regulatory and construction speed zones on various sections of highways in the state (MO) This minute order establishes or alters regulatory and construction speed zones on various sections of highways in the state.
Safety Briefing Staff will provide general safety instruction.
Memorial Resolution Resolution to extend sympathy to the family of Michael “Mike” Bailey a 24 year veteran of the San Antonio District
Approval of Minutes of the May 29, 2014 regular meeting of the Texas Transportation Commission
Houston Region Items a. Freight and Multi-Modal Update on Freight Advisory Committee activities b. Green Ribbon Project Overview of the Green Ribbon Project c. Grand Parkway Association Various Counties - Appoint one member to the Grand Parkway Association Board of Directors (MO) State law requires transportation corporations to have a board in which the powers of the corporation reside. The commission shall appoint each director for a term not to exceed six years. This minute order approves the appointment of one member to the Grand Parkway Association Board of Directors. The existing member's six-year term expires July 25, 2014.
Item 5 - Unified Transportation Program
Unified Transportation Program (UTP) Approve updates to the 2014 UTP (MO) The Unified Transportation Program (UTP) is a 10-year statewide plan for transportation project development. The commission approved the 2014 UTP in August 2013 and revisions to the 2014 UTP in December 2013, March 2014 and May 2014. This minute order updates allocations based on funds transfer requests in multiple categories and authorizes funding for project priorities. In addition, this minute order revises project specific program lists, incorporates information regarding transportation development credit awards and remaining balances, and includes minor revisions and technical corrections.
Lincoln Center Discussion regarding the TxDOT property in El Paso known as the Lincoln Center The commission will receive comments regarding the Lincoln Center at the request of the City of El Paso.
Highway Designation Webb County - Designate a segment of the state highway system as I-69W, concurrent with US 59 from I-35 to west of FM 1472 in the city of Laredo (MO) The commission will consider the designation of a segment of the state highway system as I-69W, concurrent with US 59 from I-35 to the US 59 access control approximately 0.6 mile west of Farm-to-Market Road 1472 (World Trade Bridge entrance), a total distance of approximately 1.4 miles. The Laredo Urban Transportation Study Metropolitan Planning Organization, the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, and the Federal Highway Administration have approved the designation of this segment.
Aviation Various Counties - Award federal and state grant funding for airport improvement projects at various locations (MO) Federal law authorizes the award of federal funding to preserve and improve the state's general aviation system. State law authorizes the award of state funding for capital improvement projects. The airports listed in Exhibit A are eligible for award of these grant funds and the department seeks approval of the awards.
Item 9 - Public Transportation
Public Transportation Various Counties - Award federal and state funds, and transportation development credits to Rural Economic Assistance League and Alamo Area Council of Governments (MO) The awards identified in this minute order reflect the award of the balance of federal and state funds and transportation development credits originally awarded to Bee Community Action Agency (BCAA) under several prior actions of the commission. The Rural Economic Assistance League and Alamo Area Council of Governments, now serve as the rural transit districts providing transit service to separate areas previously served by BCAA.
Item 10 - Promulgation of Administrative Rules
Promulgation of Administrative Rules Under Title 43, Texas Administrative Code, and the Administrative Procedure Act, Government Code, Chapter 2001: a. Proposed Adoption (1) Chapter 11 - Design (MO) New §§11.300-11.317 (Transportation Alternatives Program) The proposed sections implement the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) as authorized by the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (also known as MAP-21). The TAP provides funding for a variety of alternative transportation projects, including many that were previously eligible under separately funded programs. (2) Chapter 16 - Planning and Development of Transportation Projects (MO) Amendments to §16.153, Funding Categories, and §16.154, Transportation Allocation Funding Formulas (Transportation Funding) The amendments to §16.153 reflect changes to the descriptions of Category 8 (Safety) and Category 9 (formerly Transportation Enhancements) as needed to implement the Transportation Alternatives Program. The amendments to §16.154 describe the method by which funds will be allocated under Category 9. (3) Chapter 21 - Right of Way (MO) Amendments to §§21.31-21.40 (Utility Accommodation), and new §§21.961-21.968 (Leasing of Right of Way to Saltwater Pipeline Operators) These amendments add new Subchapter R to 43 TAC Chapter 21 to provide leasing requirements to implement Senate Bill 514 of the 83rd Regular Session, which authorized the placement of saltwater pipeline facilities within the right of way by a lease agreement. In addition, minor or non-substantive changes are made to Chapter 21, Subchapter C, Utility Accommodations, to modify definitions and terms of relocation for saltwater pipeline facilities in conformance with Senate Bill 514 provisions. (4) Chapter 27 - Toll Projects (MO) Amendments to §27.80, Definitions, and §27.82, Toll Operations (Operation of Department Toll Projects) These amendments would authorize the executive director of the department or designee to establish toll rates for the use of a department toll project where dynamic pricing is in effect. During the dynamic pricing phase, tolls are continually adjusted according to traffic conditions to maintain a free-flowing level of traffic, generally based on a prescribed algorithm.
Strategic Plan Adopt final 2015-2019 Strategic Plan for official submission to the Legislative Budget Board and Governor's Office (MO) (Presentation) The department’s 2015-2019 Strategic Plan provides the mission, values, goals, objectives, budgetary performance measures, strategies, and key planning contextual information that will direct the department over the next five years. In addition to these core components, the plan includes all of the supplemental components required by the Legislative Budget Board and the Governor’s Office, such as a description of the agency’s planning process, current organizational chart, workforce plan, technology initiative assessment, and a survey of employee engagement. Upon commission approval, department staff will finalize the plan package according to the instructions provided by the Legislative Budget Board and the Governor's Office for official submission of the plan to those entities by the July 7, 2014 deadline.
Item 12 - Office of Compliance, Ethics, and Investigations
Office of Compliance, Ethics, and Investigations Office of Compliance, Ethics, and Investigations Report State law requires the commission to establish a compliance program, which must include a compliance office to oversee the program. The compliance office is responsible for acting to prevent and detect serious breaches of department policy, fraud, waste, and abuse of office, including any acts of criminal conduct within the department. The compliance office is required to provide a monthly report to the commission regarding investigations and a summary of information relating to trends and recommendations.
Item 13 - Comprehensive Development Agreements
Comprehensive Development Agreements a. Nueces County - Authorize the department to issue a request for proposals for the development, design, construction, maintenance and, at the department’s option, financing of the US 181 Harbor Bridge Project in Nueces County, between US 181 at Beach Avenue and I-37, and approve a stipulated amount as payment for the work product of unsuccessful proposers (MO) On February 27, 2014, in Minute Order 113853, the commission authorized the department to issue a request for qualifications for the project. This minute order continues the procurement process by authorizing the issuance of a request for proposals for the project, and approves a stipulated amount for the payment of work product of responsive, unsuccessful proposers. Development of the US 181 Harbor Bridge Project is a high priority for the state and will help improve safety conditions in Nueces County. b. Tarrant County - Consider the approval of an interim tolling services agreement with the North Texas Tollway Authority (NTTA) for the DFW Connector Project, along SH 114 from SH 26 to east of International Parkway in Tarrant County (MO) The department has negotiated an interim tolling services agreement with the NTTA, under which the department will provide tolling services for the DFW Connector Project on an interim basis until the consummation of a regional tolling services agreement between the department and the NTTA relating to the DFW Connector Project and certain other projects, or until the NTTA has completed all work required under the agreement to assume responsibility for providing tolling services. During the interim period, the NTTA will be responsible for providing tolling services for transactions involving its customers.
Toll Roads a. Various Counties - Designate the SH 360 Project, providing for the construction of toll lanes and other improvements from approximately 2 miles south of I-20 near East Sublett Road/Camp Wisdom Road to US 287 in Ellis, Tarrant, and Johnson Counties, as a toll project on the state highway system; authorize the department to issue a request for proposals for the development, design, construction, and maintenance of the SH 360 Project; and approve a stipulated amount as payment for the work product of unsuccessful proposers (MO) The department received a finding of no significant impact on January 16, 2014. This minute order designates the SH 360 Project from approximately 2 miles south of I-20 near East Sublett Road/Camp Wisdom to US 287 as a toll project on the state highway system. On February 27, 2014, in Minute Order 113861, the commission authorized the department to issue a request for qualifications for the development, design, construction, and maintenance of the project. This minute order continues the procurement process by authorizing the issuance of a request for proposals for the project, and approves a stipulated amount for the payment of work product of responsive, unsuccessful proposers. b. Travis County - Approve the selection of the proposer who submitted the best value proposal to develop, design, and construct the SH 71 Toll Lanes Project from Presidential Blvd to east of SH 130 in Travis County, and authorize the executive director of the department to execute a Design-Build Agreement with the selected proposer (MO) (Presentation) On March 5, 2014, the department issued a request for proposals to develop, design, and construct the SH 71 Toll Lanes Project from Presidential Blvd to east of SH 130 in Travis County. The department has completed its review and evaluation of proposals, and is presenting its best value recommendation to the commission. c. Various Counties - Authorize the executive director of the department to issue a request for qualifications for the development, design, construction, and potentially, maintenance, and operation of the Segments H, I-1 and all or part of Segment I-2 of the SH 99 (Grand Parkway) in Harris, Liberty, Montgomery, and Chambers Counties (MO) Transportation Code, §223.242 authorizes the department to enter into, in each fiscal year, up to three design-build contracts for highway projects with a construction cost estimate of $50 million or more. The SH 99 (Grand Parkway) Segments H, I-1, and I-2 Project is a high priority for the state and meets the conditions necessary for design-build delivery.
Toll Equity a. Smith County - North East Texas Regional Mobility Authority - Consider preliminary approval of a request from North East Texas Regional Mobility Authority (NET RMA) to convert a toll equity loan in the outstanding principal amount of approximately $55,000,000 to a grant for project costs primarily relating to Segment 3B of Loop 49, locally known as Toll 49 (LP49) and evidenced by a Financial Assistance Agreement dated as of March 1, 2011 (MO) The NET RMA is requesting that the Commission authorize the conversion of the accreted principal value of the approximately $55,000,000 toll equity loan to a grant. The loan proceeds were used by NET RMA primarily for the development and construction of Segment 3B of LP49, from SH 31 north to I-20. The 10-mile toll facility for which financial assistance is being provided includes two lanes of an ultimate four-lane toll road, with connections to the existing LP49 facility at SH 31, and ramp connections to I-20. b. Smith County - North East Texas Regional Mobility Authority - Consider final approval of a request from North East Texas Regional Mobility Authority (NET RMA) for financial assistance in the amount of $3,545,000 for the costs of acquisition and construction of toll equipment for Loop 49, locally known as Toll 49 (LP49) (MO) The Commission granted preliminary approval of NET RMA’s request on May 29, 2014, in Minute Order 113944. NET RMA is requesting financial assistance in the form of a grant to pay for the costs of acquiring and constructing toll equipment for Segments 1, 2, 3A, and 5 of LP49. The project would convert the toll management system equipment to the same toll integrator for all segments of LP49 so the system can operate with greater efficiency.
Item 17 - State Infrastructure Bank Hill County
State Infrastructure Bank Hill County - City of Whitney - Consider granting final approval of an application from the City of Whitney to borrow up to $510,000 from the State Infrastructure Bank (SIB) to pay for relocation of utility lines for the widening of FM 933 from a two lane roadway to a four lane roadway with a continuous left turn lane from FM 1713 proceeding 3 miles south to FM 1244 in Whitney (MO) The City of Whitney is requesting SIB financial assistance to pay for City of Whitney’s costs of relocation of utility lines for the widening of FM 933. The SIB loan will be secured by pledge of ad valorem and sales tax revenues of the City.
Contracts Award or reject contracts for maintenance, highway and building construction These proposed minute orders contain information concerning the receipt of bids for highway improvement contracts. The department may reschedule receipt of bids for those projects where the commission rejects all bids. Those bids accepted by the commission will result in conditional contract awards to the low bidders. Contract award conditions may involve securing funding from other sources, the contractor's ability to satisfy federal DBE subcontracting requirements, or other requirements as outlined in the project bid proposal. (a) Highway Maintenance and Department Building Construction (see attached itemized list) (MO) (b) Highway and Transportation Enhancement Building Construction (see attached itemized list) (MO)
Item 19 - Eminent Domain Proceedings
Eminent Domain Proceedings Various Counties - Authorize the filing of condemnation proceedings to acquire real property by eminent domain for non-controlled and controlled access highways (see attached list) (MO) Commission findings, determinations, and authorizations for the state, by motion made in accordance with Senate Bill 18 (82nd Legislature), to acquire by eminent domain, upon the payment of adequate and just compensation, various ownership interests in specific parcels of real property that are needed to develop or improve both non-controlled and controlled access state highways, to include requesting the state attorney general to bring and pursue condemnation suits relating to those specific parcels of real property described in the attached itemized list.
Item 20 - Routine Minute Orders and Reports
a. Donations to the Department Various Districts - Consider the acknowledgment of donations made to the department to include: (a) donations in any form, including realty, personalty, money, materials, or services, which are made to the department for the purpose of carrying out its functions and duties; and (b) donations from landowners, with land adjacent to a highway that is part of the state highway system, to construct an improvement on the highway right-of-way that is directly related to improving access to or from the owner's land (See attached itemized list) (MO) The donations will ensure the safety of the traveling public. b. Right of Way Dispositions and Donations The commission must approve the sales, transfers, and exchanges of state rights of way and other real properties that are no longer needed for a state highway purpose. It must also approve, accept and acknowledge donations to the state of real property that is valued at $500 or more. (1) Bell County - FM Spur 817 at I-35 in Temple - Consider the removal removal from the system, transfer of control, jurisdiction and maintenance to the city, and quitclaim of land to the city (MO) The district and city have determined that FM Spur 817 functions more as a city street than a highway and have agreed that the highway should be removed from the system and that control, jurisdiction, and maintenance should be transferred to the city. There is no record title to the land, and it may be quitclaimed to the city. (2) Comal County - SH 46, north side, west of Windmill Ranch Road – Consider the sale of a drainage easement (MO) The district has determined that the easement is no longer needed for highway drainage purposes. The property owner has requested to purchase the easement, and it may be sold to the owner. c. Report of Environmental Review of Projects - Accept the semiannual report on projects being processed under the department’s environmental review process (Report) This report is being submitted under Transportation Code, §201.762(a), which requires the department to submit to the commission twice a year a report that identifies projects being processed under the department’s environmental review process. d. Transportation Planning (1) Various Counties - Concurrence with the Regional Transportation Council of the North Central Texas Council of Governments' funding of construction and other project development costs of projects to be advanced through the use of payments received from the North Texas Tollway Authority for the right to develop, finance, design, construct, operate and maintain the SH 121 toll project from Business SH 121 in Denton County to US 75 in Collin County (MO) The department has established a separate fund to account for and track projects and project costs funded with the SH 121 payments. This minute order authorizes the funding of additional projects costs with those payments. The project costs to be funded were selected through a cooperative process with the RTC e. Designation of Access Control (1) Dallas County - I-20, west of JJ Lemmon Road - Consider the designation of two locations on the frontage road at which access will be permitted to the abutting property (MO) The designation of one 49-foot break in the control-of-access line and one 48.5-foot break in the control-of-access line will allow the abutting landowner to open two proposed driveway locations for access to and from the westbound frontage road. The district has determined that access may be permitted at the designated locations. (2) Fort Bend County - US 59, approximately 3600 feet south of University Boulevard to approximately 1300 feet south of University Boulevard – Consider the designation of two locations on the highway at which access will be permitted to the abutting property (MO) The designation of two 80-foot breaks in the control-of-access line will allow the abutting landowner to open two proposed driveway locations for access to and from the northbound frontage road. The district has determined that access may be permitted at the designated locations. (3) Harris County - US 59, approximately 20 feet south of Texas Street - Consider the designation of two locations on the highway at which access will be permitted to the abutting property (MO) The designation of two 45-foot breaks in the control-of-access line will allow the abutting landowner to open a service driveway to the convention center for access underneath the elevated main lanes section (no frontage roads). The district has determined that access may be permitted at the designated locations. (4) San Patricio County - I-37, approximately 800 feet north of SH 459 to approximately 400 feet south of SH 459 - Consider the designation of two locations on the highway at which access will be permitted to the abutting property (MO) The designation of two 100-foot breaks in the control-of-access line will allow the abutting landowner to open two proposed driveway locations for access to and from the southbound frontage road. The district has determined that access may be permitted at the designated locations. e. Designation of Access Control (continued) (5) Williamson County - I-35, approximately 600 feet south of SH 29 to approximately 1300 feet south of SH 29 - Consider the designation of two locations on the highway at which access will be permitted to the abutting property (MO) The designation of a 110-foot break and a 70-foot break in the control-of-access line will allow the abutting landowner to open two proposed driveway locations for access to and from the northbound frontage road. The district has determined that access may be permitted at the designated locations. (6) Williamson County - I-35, approximately 850 feet north of RM 2243 - Consider the designation of a location on the highway at which access will be permitted to the abutting property(MO) The designation of a 110-foot break in the control-of-access line will allow the abutting landowner to open a proposed driveway location for access to and from the northbound frontage road. The district has determined that access may be permitted at the designated location. f. Highway Designations Titus County - In the city of Mount Pleasant, designate a segment of US 67, redesignate a segment of US 67 as State Spur 134, remove the concurrent US 67 designation with SH 49 and remove the US 67 designation along Elsye Street. (MO) This minute order designates a segment of US 67 along the existing alignment from 0.2 mile west of US 271 to Elsye Street, a distance of approximately 0.7 mile, redesignates a segment of US 67 from its existing alignment eastward to the proposed US 271 as State Spur 134, a distance of approximately 0.2 mile, removes the concurrent US 67 designation with State Highway 49 from the proposed US 271 eastward to Elsye Street, a distance of approximately 0.4 mile and removes the US 67 designation along Elsye Street from the existing US 67 southward to the existing US 271, a distance of approximately 0.3 mile. g. Speed Zones Various Counties - Establish or alter regulatory and construction speed zones on various sections of highways in the state (MO) This minute order establishes or alters regulatory and construction speed zones on various sections of highways in the state.