What kind of transportation system do we need?
 For years, some of our more vocal neighbors have fought against new roads, or toll roads, or extending bus service, or building rail. But the fact is we need all of these to meet the needs of our dynamic, fast-growing region. We’ve found that a solid majority of Central Texans support this vision of a comprehensive regional system.
- New roads. We need to move forward with building new roads, whether or not they’re tolled. We especially need to keep up with the demand being created by residential growth in places like eastern Travis and Williamson counties. Many of these new routes are city and county roads supported by local tax dollars.
- Toll roads and lanes. Tolling is a sound option both for new highways like SH 130 and for expanding existing corridors like U.S. 290 East. Toll revenue allows us to build these roads faster while maintaining local control and implementing a transportation vision that’s unique to Central Texas. It also allows us to make needed investments without hurting the regional economy and overly burdening people who don’t use these roads.
- Public transportation. New express and rapid bus service — including routes that use new roads and toll roads — can help make a huge difference for people who are now stuck in traffic. Dedicated bus lanes and new technology can help make the bus a real alternative to traffic, not just in the urban core but throughout the region.
- Passenger rail. New rail systems have the potential to shape future growth and create choices that aren’t possible if we just rely on highways. Central Texas already has rail corridors that can be used for passenger service linking the region’s cities, connecting to local bus or streetcar service and reducing the need to drive. Rail — both passenger and freight — can also help connect Central Texans to the rest of the state and nation, reducing traffic on our major routes even more.
A comprehensive system also allows Central Texas to adopt other strategies for creating a healthy, sustainable and prosperous region. From sidewalks, trails and bike lanes to new transit-oriented urban villages, these strategies can enrich our lives and add value to our transportation investments. |
