In 2008, the Texas Transportation Commission directed TxDOT to issue an additional $2.9 billion in bonds, or revenue bonds backed by the state highway fund, to advance construction of several much needed projects across the state, according to TxDOT’s Web site.
Ken Roberts, spokesman for TxDOT in Waco, said the money will be used for right of way acquisition and utility adjustments for the I-35 expansion.
“The expansion will be in Bell County between Amity Road (north of Salado) and U.S. 190 in Belton and in McLennan County from North Loop 340 in Waco to north of West,” he said.
McLennan County will receive $38 million for its I-35 expansion projects. Those funds will also involve right of way acquisition and utility adjustments.
“These funds don’t complete the package needed for funding the expansion of I-35 through this area,” said Richard Skopik, TxDOT Waco district engineer. “But they are pieces to the puzzle necessary to complete this huge expansion project.”
