ITC Chairman Testifies in Support of Using P3s for transportation

AUSTIN – Invest Texas Council (ITC) Chairman, Ron Simmons yesterday testified in support of House Bill 3159, authored by Representative Armando “Mando” Martinez (D-Weslaco).

HB 3159 puts Texas on a trajectory for success by granting TxDOT the ability to utilize comprehensive development agreements (or “CDAs”) to finance certain state transportation projects, one of which is I-35 in Central Texas but there are others itemized in the legislation.  

In 2020, the 8 miles between U.S. 290 East and Texas 71, which cuts through downtown Austin, ranked as the most congested stretch in the state. Clearly it must be a priority.

“The with our state’s growing population, we need to look beyond using just tax revenues -- that puts the burden on taxpayers -- to meet crucial transportation demands. P3s are the answer,” said former state representative Ron Simmons.

Simmons added: “Governor’s Abbott’s focus on transportation has helped the Lone Star State to build out its infrastructure, but more is needed as Texas seeks to keep pace with population growth. This bill by Representative Martinez is essential not only to keeping Texas moving and expanding IH-35, but also ensuring our economy continues to thrive for generations to come.” 

The individuals and organizations that support public-private partnerships in transportation is extraordinary in terms of reputation, intellectual depth, and varied political philosophies.  P3s have the support of many organizations including the Metro 8 Chambers of Commerce, the Hobby School at UH, Cato Institute, the Brookings Institution, ALEC-Action, TCCRI and a vast array of pro-business organizations around the state, including many rural chambers.

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