ROUTE SELECTION

A key consideration in developing the Trans-Texas Corridor is whether to build in a new location or use existing roadways.

As much as possible, TTC routes will incorporate existing highway, railway and utility corridors. This will happen where portions of current highways, railways or utility right of ways lie within an area designated for a TTC route, and where these highways:

• have the capacity to serve increased traffic volumes within existing right of way
• present a cost-effective option for expansion through acquisition of additional right of way

Expanding existing highways in urban areas is often not feasible. State and interstate highways in many cities were built decades ago to accommodate relatively low traffic volumes. Because of business, industrial and residential development along these urban highways, the cost to acquire additional right of way to expand roadways today is often prohibitive and in many cases impossible.

Existing roadway in some rural areas might be ideal for expansion, so construction of new highways in these areas may not be needed.