Senate Resolution No. 144 recognizes the importance of multimodal transportation infrastructure to the Texas economy, particularly along the US 287 corridor, which spans 754 miles and serves a significant portion of the state's population. With Texas's population exceeding 30 million and continuing to grow, the resolution highlights the increasing strain on aging transportation systems, especially along US 287, which connects key regions and facilitates the movement of goods and people. The corridor is vital for economic development, linking seaports in Jefferson County to other areas, but much of its infrastructure is outdated, hindering safety and efficiency.

The resolution commends the Transportation Excellence for the 21st Century organization (TEX-21), its US 287 Corridor Coalition, and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) for their collaborative efforts to improve transportation infrastructure. It notes that TEX-21 is advocating for significant enhancements, including upgrading US 287 to interstate highway standards, and that TxDOT is conducting a feasibility study in response to these advocacy efforts. The Senate expresses its appreciation for the commitment shown by these organizations in advancing the safety, mobility, connectivity, and resilience of Texas's transportation system. An official copy of the resolution will be prepared for TEX-21 and TxDOT as a token of recognition from the Texas Senate.