Montgomery Co. Plans $18B for Future Traffic

**Montgomery County Gears Up for Massive Mobility Overhaul Amidst Population Boom; $18 Billion Plan Takes Shape**

**CONROE, TX –** Montgomery County is making critical strides in addressing its escalating traffic challenges, holding a pivotal public hearing on January 23rd for Phase 2 recommendations of its comprehensive Mobility Study. This ambitious initiative aims to prepare the county’s transportation network for an anticipated population surge, projected to more than double by 2050.

Led by the Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) in collaboration with consultants AECOM, the Montgomery County Mobility Study is designed to develop a long-range transportation plan across all four county precincts, encompassing bustling areas like The Woodlands and Conroe, as well as rapidly growing communities such as Magnolia and Splendora. The county’s population, currently around 600,000, is expected to reach 1.5 million in the next 27 years, placing immense pressure on existing infrastructure.

Phase 1 of the study concluded in August 2023, setting the groundwork for the more detailed Phase 2, which commenced in September 2023. AECOM, operating under an 18-month contract slated to end in April, has been meticulously evaluating over 40 potential projects. These recommendations are strategically categorized into short-term (0-10 years), mid-term (10-20 years), and long-term (20+ years) solutions to ensure a phased and sustainable approach.

The proposed improvements are extensive, targeting major arteries and persistent bottlenecks throughout the county. Key corridors under scrutiny include Loop 336, Interstate 45, FM 1488, and Texas 242. Plans range from widening existing roads and constructing new thoroughfares to modernizing intersections with advanced signaling and design, all aimed at improving traffic flow and reducing congestion. The study is also expected to consider multimodal solutions, potentially including transit options and enhanced pedestrian and cycling infrastructure to offer diverse mobility choices for residents.

The price tag for this expansive vision is significant, estimated to fall between $16 billion and $18 billion. Funding these projects will require a multifaceted approach, with county officials exploring a combination of state and federal grants, county bond referendums, regional agreements, and public-private partnerships. A strong emphasis is being placed on identifying projects that qualify for federal funding through the metropolitan transportation plan, maximizing external financial support.

The Montgomery County Commissioners Court, including County Judge Mark Keough and Commissioners James Noack (Precinct 1), Robert Walker (Precinct 2), Charlie Riley (Precinct 3), and Greg Parker (Precinct 4), has been actively reviewing the proposals. The public hearing on January 23rd provided an essential platform for residents and stakeholders to offer feedback, which will be crucial in refining the final recommendations.

“This is not just about building more roads; it’s about building a sustainable future for Montgomery County,” said Judge Mark Keough in prior statements regarding the study’s importance. “We need a comprehensive plan that keeps our residents moving safely and efficiently as our county continues to grow at an unprecedented rate.”

The final recommendations from the Mobility Study are anticipated to be presented to the Commissioners Court in March or April. These adopted plans will serve as a foundational guide for any future bond referendums for county infrastructure, directly influencing how Montgomery County allocates resources to meet its transportation needs for decades to come.

Residents interested in reviewing the study’s progress and recommendations can often find detailed information and presentations on the H-GAC website (www.h-gac.com) or the Montgomery County website as the process moves forward.