S.B. No. 2899 amends Section 201.615 of the Transportation Code to enhance the design considerations for transportation projects undertaken by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). The bill requires TxDOT to consider various factors when developing projects, including safety, durability, maintenance economy, environmental impact, and community access. Notably, it introduces new requirements for considering aesthetic character and alternative designs that have been approved by local governing bodies, as well as the negative impacts of previous transportation projects on affected communities.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that the commission must adopt rules to implement these considerations, specifically requiring a review of alternative designs as if they were subject to the National Environmental Policy Act. However, it also provides exceptions, stating that the alternative design requirement does not apply if the department deems the proposed design frivolous or intended to delay the project. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Transportation Code 201.615 (Transportation Code 201)