S.B. No. 1993 aims to establish a prohibition on certain roadway projects by local governmental entities in Texas and outlines the consequences for those that violate this prohibition. The bill amends the Transportation Code to clarify that home-rule municipalities have delegated control over public highways, streets, and alleys, and it sets forth specific conditions under which these municipalities may vacate, abandon, or close streets or alleys. Notably, the bill introduces a new subchapter that defines prohibited roadway projects, which include reallocating existing vehicular roadway space for non-vehicular uses and narrowing existing marked lanes.

Additionally, the bill mandates that local governmental entities must provide public notice and allow for public comment on proposed roadway projects. If a project is found to violate the new regulations, the Texas Transportation Commission is required to notify the local entity and the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs, which will then prohibit financial assistance to the violating entity until the issue is resolved. The bill also includes provisions for appealing the commission's determinations regarding violations. Overall, S.B. No. 1993 seeks to ensure that roadway projects do not negatively impact vehicular congestion while promoting public involvement in the decision-making process.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Transportation Code 311.001, Transportation Code 311.007, Government Code 2306.111 (Transportation Code 311, Government Code 2306)