Montgomery Co Phase 3 mobility study updates 2050 plan

Montgomery County Greenlights Critical Phase to Overhaul Major Thoroughfare Plan Amid Explosive Growth

**MONTGOMERY COUNTY, TX –** The Montgomery County Commissioners Court has taken a significant step toward addressing the region’s rapidly expanding population and mounting traffic congestion, greenlighting the crucial third phase of its ongoing mobility study. This latest initiative aims to comprehensively update the county’s major thoroughfare plan, which has not seen a refresh since 2007, and will guide transportation development through 2050.

Approved during its Tuesday session, the Commissioners Court awarded a $1.8 million contract to Huitt-Zollars, a prominent engineering and planning firm. This third phase is tasked with the complex responsibility of prioritizing identified transportation projects, developing a robust funding strategy, and ultimately creating a blueprint to accommodate Montgomery County’s projected explosive growth.

“This isn’t just about building more roads; it’s about ensuring the future economic vitality and quality of life for our residents,” stated County Judge Mark Keough. “Our county is one of the fastest-growing in the nation, and our infrastructure must evolve to meet those demands. The 2007 plan, while effective for its time, simply can’t handle the growth we’ve experienced and anticipate.”

Montgomery County’s population, which has surged past 650,000, is projected to exceed 1 million residents by 2050, putting immense pressure on existing roadways. Major corridors like I-45, SH 242, and the Grand Parkway (SH 99) already experience significant daily congestion, impacting commuters, commerce, and emergency services.

Phase 3 builds upon earlier stages of the mobility study, which focused on data collection, traffic modeling, and the identification of specific needs and potential infrastructure projects across the county, from its southern cities bordering Harris County to its northern reaches. Now, Huitt-Zollars will lead extensive public engagement efforts, compiling a comprehensive final report and ultimately presenting a brand-new thoroughfare plan to the Commissioners Court.

“We are eager to partner with Montgomery County and its residents on this vital project,” said a representative from Huitt-Zollars. “Our approach will be data-driven, community-focused, and forward-thinking, ensuring the plan is not only effective but also sustainable and reflective of the county’s unique character.”

Public input is expected to be a cornerstone of this phase, with plans for multiple community meetings, workshops, and an online portal where residents can provide feedback on proposed projects and priorities. Details on specific dates and locations for these engagement opportunities are expected to be announced in the coming months.

The final updated plan and funding strategy are anticipated to be completed and presented to the Commissioners Court within 18 months from the contract’s start, targeting an early 2026 completion. The funding strategy will explore a variety of options, including county bond initiatives, state and federal grants, and potential partnerships with local municipalities and private developers.

“This plan will be critical for guiding future investments and ensuring we have a transportation system that supports our families and businesses for decades to come,” added Commissioner James Noack, whose precinct has seen significant development. “It’s about being proactive, not reactive, to the challenges of growth.”

Residents interested in staying informed about the mobility study and upcoming public engagement opportunities are encouraged to visit the Montgomery County government’s official website at mctx.org or search for the “Montgomery County Mobility Study” project page, which will be regularly updated with progress and ways to participate.