Montgomery County Approves $480M Bond Package

**Montgomery County Voters Approve Historic $480 Million Bond for Growth and Infrastructure**

**MONTGOMERY COUNTY, TX –** Montgomery County residents delivered an emphatic statement on May 3, 2025, overwhelmingly approving a landmark $480 million bond package aimed at bolstering critical infrastructure and enhancing quality of life across the rapidly growing region. The massive investment, championed by the Commissioners Court, received strong support with over 35% of registered voters casting ballots, signaling deep community engagement in the county’s future.

The bond package, one of the largest in the county’s history, reflects the urgent needs of a population that has swelled by over 30% in the last decade. County Judge Mark Miller lauded the voters’ decision, stating, “This vote clearly demonstrates our residents’ vision and commitment to ensuring Montgomery County remains a thriving, safe, and desirable place to live and work for generations to come. We listened to our constituents, and this bond directly addresses the most pressing issues facing our communities.”

**Addressing Gridlock: $300 Million for Transportation**

Traffic congestion has long been a top concern for Montgomery County residents, and the bond dedicates a substantial $300 million to tackling this issue head-on. Key transportation initiatives include:
* **FM 1488 Widening:** Significant portions west of The Woodlands will see added lanes and intersection improvements, particularly vital for commuters traveling between growing communities like Magnolia and The Woodlands.
* **FM 2978 Upgrades:** Enhancements along this critical north-south corridor will improve flow and safety.
* **Loop 336 Improvements in Conroe:** Major upgrades are planned to alleviate bottlenecks and support economic development in the county seat.

These road projects are anticipated to commence with initial design and right-of-way acquisitions by early 2026, with groundbreaking projected for late 2026. Commissioner Riley Stevens, whose precinct includes some of the heavily impacted areas, remarked, “Our roads are the arteries of our economy and daily lives. This investment will not only ease congestion but also enhance safety and connectivity across the county.”

**Mitigating Flooding: $100 Million for Drainage**

A direct response to lessons learned from past severe weather events like Hurricane Harvey and Tropical Storm Imelda, $100 million has been allocated to drainage and flood mitigation efforts. Projects will focus on areas most vulnerable to flooding, including:
* The San Jacinto River basin, with an emphasis on improving tributary flow and reducing overflow risks.
* Neighborhoods in communities like Splendora and Porter, where localized flooding has historically impacted homes and businesses.

These funds will support a range of solutions, including the construction of new detention ponds, improvements to existing drainage channels, culvert upgrades, and comprehensive watershed studies to better manage stormwater runoff.

**Enhancing Quality of Life: $50 Million for Parks**

Recognizing the importance of green spaces and recreational opportunities, the bond dedicates $50 million to new and improved park facilities. Plans include:
* Enhancements to existing county parks, such as upgrading playgrounds, adding new trails, and improving sports fields.
* The development of new recreational spaces, particularly in the rapidly developing east and north parts of the county, providing residents with more access to outdoor activities and community gathering places.

**Prioritizing Safety: $30 Million for Public Safety Infrastructure**

Public safety is a cornerstone of any thriving community, and $30 million from the bond package will directly address critical needs for first responders. This includes:
* Upgrades to emergency communication systems, ensuring seamless coordination between law enforcement, fire departments, and EMS across the expansive county.
* The construction of a new precinct facility in the fast-growing southern sector near Magnolia, which will enhance response times and provide a modern operational base for law enforcement serving the burgeoning population.

**Financial Implications for Residents**

County officials have confirmed that the approved bond will necessitate a modest property tax increase. Specifics on the new tax rate are expected to be finalized during the 2026 budget cycle, with the first debt service payments anticipated to begin in 2027. The increase will be applied to ad valorem taxes, which fund the repayment of the bonds.

“We understand that any tax increase is a concern for our residents,” stated County Auditor Nancy S. Rhyne. “However, this investment is spread over decades, and the impact will be carefully managed to ensure fiscal responsibility while delivering essential improvements. The long-term benefits of these projects for our economy and quality of life far outweigh the modest cost.”

The passage of this bond package marks a pivotal moment for Montgomery County, setting the stage for significant infrastructure development and community enhancements over the coming years. Residents can find further details and project updates on the Montgomery County website (mctx.org).