The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has released a draft of its 2026 Unified Transportation Program (UTP), proposing more than $264 million in new traffic management technology projects across the state.
The UTP acts as a developmental road map that helps TxDOT define, prioritize and fund transportation projects in a rolling 10-year window. The 2026 draft marks a continued focus on intelligent transportation systems, with an expanded slate of projects designed to enhance traffic flow, safety and system efficiency through advanced technologies.
The bulk of new investments appear in the Austin District, where TxDOT is proposing five Category 12 Strategic Priority projects along the I-35 corridor. Collectively, these initiatives would direct about $32 million toward traffic management technology between FY 2030 and FY 2035. Individual project budgets range from $2.8 million to $9.4 million and target high-congestion zones in Austin, Georgetown, Round Rock and San Marcos.
Elsewhere in the Austin region, two projects along State Highway 71 in Travis County are scheduled for earlier delivery between FY 2026 and FY 2029. Those projects, which total more than $2.2 million, aim to deploy signal coordination and real-time traffic tools along a growing commuter corridor.
The draft also underscores continued investment in infrastructure that supports smart mobility and emission reduction goals. Traffic signal upgrades and intelligent lighting projects remain eligible under Category 8 (Safety), while Category 5 (Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement) dedicates 8 percent of its funds — about $155 million — to traffic management systems and signal technology statewide.
TxDOT is also administering $75 million through the Carbon Reduction Program for non-urban areas. Although not all will necessarily be used for technology projects, the funding supports alternative fuel vehicles, EV infrastructure, energy-efficient traffic controls and other technologies aimed at reducing transportation emissions.
Public comments on the 2026 draft are being accepted through July 28. A virtual public hearing is scheduled for 2 p.m. July 23.
TxDOT's 2026 Unified Transportation Program Draft Includes $264M+ in Traffic Tech
What to Know:
- The bulk of new investments appear in the Austin District, where TxDOT is proposing $32 million in projects along the I-35 corridor.
- The draft also underscores continued investment in infrastructure that supports smart mobility and emission reduction goals.
- TxDOT is administering $75 million through the Carbon Reduction Program for non-urban areas.
Shutterstock
