To Toll Or Not To Toll? That Is TxDOT's Question

It seems TxDOT can't play well with others lately. It also seems it just wants presents, instead of doing actual work.

 

Because of a new law passed by the TX Legislature this past session, any toll project has to be examined by TxDOT over that of any private firm, including NTTA. The proposed project of building a toll road extending Hwy 161 south from the end of Bush Turnpike along the Dallas-Tarrant County line is in jeopardy because of the law.

 

TxDOT Chairman Ric Williamson is threatening to pull the plug on state funds for the project by December 21 if he doesn't get NTTA to agree with his plan, according to the DMN. "If you can reach an agreement by Dec. 21, and bring us a Christmas present, then great. If not, then Highway 161 won't be a toll road, and we'll move on to other projects," he said.

 

The flip side to this is that the road will more than likely still be built, with or without tolls. It will be a major artery in Dallas County into the Arlington area, and will be a faster route for traffic coming from the North Dallas area wanting to visit the new Cowboys Stadium. The only trouble is, without tolls, the cost will come out of the budgets of local authorities to the tune of almost $1 billion. That could put other projects in jeopardy as well.

 

You know we have never been fans of toll roads. But no we have a dillema here in the DFW area. TxDOT claims they have no money. Do we rob Peter to pay Paul by using $600 million of the NTTA payment from Highway 121 due to be paid to NCTCOG? Or do we come up with new solutions in the Legislature on road funding in the state? We welcome any comments on the issue.