Montgomery County Commissioners Greenlight $15 Million for Key Highway 242 Expansion
Montgomery County Commissioners unanimously approved $15 million in funding for the widening of Highway 242, a critical step toward alleviating severe traffic congestion in a rapidly expanding area of the county. The decision was made during their regular meeting on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, setting the stage for a significant infrastructure upgrade.
The project focuses on widening Highway 242 from two lanes to four, specifically targeting the stretch west of Interstate 45 to the entrance of Harper's Preserve. This expansion is designed to dramatically improve traffic flow and reduce commuter delays along this vital artery.
This particular section of Montgomery County, especially around burgeoning developments like Grand Central Park, has experienced substantial residential and commercial growth in recent years. This rapid development has led to increasingly intense traffic volumes, prompting frequent concerns from residents and local businesses about daily delays and safety.
The $15 million allocated by the county will come from its American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, which are designated for infrastructure improvements and economic recovery initiatives. This initial county investment will cover essential preliminary phases, including design work, engineering studies, the acquisition of necessary land (right-of-way), and the relocation of utilities. Following these preparatory stages, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) will oversee the actual construction, which is estimated to cost an additional $60 million. The county's contribution is pivotal, enabling TxDOT to proceed with the larger construction phase.
The Commissioners Court approved the funding with a unanimous 5-0 vote, signaling the project's broad support and perceived urgency. County officials anticipate finalizing a partnership agreement with TxDOT during their April 2024 meeting. If all timelines remain on track, construction is projected to commence by early 2025.
This Highway 242 expansion is a key component of a larger, comprehensive 10-year road bond program that Montgomery County voters overwhelmingly approved in November 2022. That bond program committed significant funds towards improving transportation infrastructure across the county over the next decade. Further details on Commissioners Court decisions and meeting minutes can be found on the Montgomery County government website at montgomerycountytx.gov. Information regarding statewide transportation projects by TxDOT is available at txdot.gov. Residents interested in the specifics of the 2022 Road Bond Program can typically find information on the county's public works or elections department sections online.
