Jun. 07, 2003

Gov. Perry Applauds Port of Brownsville's Rail Re-Location Project

Describes Legislative Session As Success For State's Transportation Future

BROWNSVILLE - Gov. Rick Perry today applauded a Port of Brownsville project that relocates approximately 10 miles of rail line, allowing rail traffic to bypass downtown and head directly to the port.

"This railroad relocation project will enhance safety, economic development and the quality of life for the citizens of Brownsville and our neighbors on both sides of the border," Perry said. "This is the kind of innovative transportation solution that the citizens of this area have anticipated for some time, providing an efficient connection point between the southmost point of Texas to the trade and commerce opportunities of Mexico and all of Latin America."

During dedication ceremonies for the Brownsville-Matamoros Railroad Relocation Demonstration Project, Perry said the cooperative effort by federal, state and local governments will increase safety, decrease commuter delays and reduce vehicle and train emissions.

In addition, the governor believes rail relocation will allow for more efficient movement of goods through the Port of Brownsville, providing a competitive edge for future growth and job creation in the area.

The port project exemplifies the type of effort the governor expects to be undertaken all across the state as Texas develops the most progressive transportation solutions in the nation. The legislature passed a sweeping transportation bill that will leverage billions in transportation bonds to jump-start projects in crowded areas. Legislation also provides local leaders greater authority to build projects and keep locally generated dollars within communities for local projects. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) also will be given new authority to regulate the construction of rail lines so multi-modal transportation projects can be built under one primary agency.

"Texas is moving forward with new solutions to get traffic and commerce moving," Perry said. "Brownsville is at the epicenter of our transportation needs, serving as a gateway of trade to all of Latin America."

The legislation passed this session builds upon the governor's commitment to improving transportation, including his plan for the Trans Texas Corridor, a statewide transportation plan to address congestion, pollution and safety in Texas cities. The Trans Texas Corridor includes innovative funding methods that allow the state to construct the system with a minimal expenditure of public money. The Corridor redirects large trucks and hazardous materials out of cities, while bringing broadband, water and utilities to rural Texans.

TxDOT already has received a proposal to build a corridor segment from Denison to Brownsville and is preparing to solicit competing proposals.