Transportation Commission Approves $264M+ in Traffic Tech

The Texas Transportation Commission has approved the 2026 Unified Transportation Program (UTP), advancing a sweeping $146 billion investment aimed at modernizing the state’s transportation network during the next decade.

Announced by Gov. Greg Abbott and the Texas Department of Transportation on Aug. 21, the final plan reaffirms Texas' commitment to improving roadway safety, easing congestion and supporting economic growth across urban and rural regions alike.

The approved plan includes more than $264 million in traffic management technology projects, an investment level consistent with the draft UTP released in July. These initiatives emphasize intelligent transportation systems (ITS), real-time traffic tools, coordinated signal networks and emissions-reducing infrastructure.

The Austin District remains the largest beneficiary of technology-focused funding, receiving about $32 million for five Category 12 projects along I-35. Scheduled between fiscal years 2030 and 2035, those efforts target high-congestion areas in Georgetown, Round Rock, San Marcos and Austin. Additional signal coordination projects totaling more than $2.2 million are planned for State Highway 71 in Travis County with earlier timelines between FY 2026 and 2029.

In addition to ITS initiatives, the UTP designates about $155 million of Category 5 Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement funds for statewide traffic signal and management systems. Another $75 million will be administered through the Carbon Reduction Program, supporting eligible technologies like EV infrastructure and energy-efficient traffic controls in non-urban areas.

The 2026 UTP marks the third consecutive year the program’s total funding has exceeded $100 billion, reinforcing the state’s long-term infrastructure priorities amid continued population growth and private-sector expansion.