The Cost of Doing Nothing: Chapter 2 Lettings and Awards 2003-2017

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The second chapter of the Cost of Doing Nothing resource book takes a look at highway construction awards from 2003 through 2017.

As we learned in Chapter One, Texas needs a minimum of $6 billion a year for construction and maintenance to achieve even the worst acceptable road conditions.  Looking at the graph below, Texas will exceed this standard for the first time in 2013—and according to new figures, may even reach the "Minimum Competitive" benchmark at $9.5 billion.  This will enable the department to make great progress in improving pavement standards and reducing congestion times, and is great news for Texans everywhere.



Without increased investment by the next legislature, however, the progress is short-lived.  By 2014, Texas will only have about $2.8 billion for construction and maintenance, even less in subsequent years.

With an annual program of only $2.8 billion, Texas will barely have enough for its maintenance needs and will have no money left for new projects anywhere.

Bottom Line: What does this mean for the average Texan? More congestion, more money in wasted gas, and more maintenance costs for vehicle wear and tear.  There are 1,200 people moving to Texas every day. If we fail to fund added capacity, expect your 37 hours stuck in traffic every year to rise.  At the current revenue forecasts, it is expected to double in fifteen years. 

Previous:  Chapter 1

Next:  Chapter 3

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