TxDOT | Texas Space Industry Highway Transportation Needs Assessment

During the March 31st Board of Directors Meeting, Caroline Mays, Director of Planning and Modal Programs at the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) presented a recent study that TxDOT conducted to assess roadway infrastructure needs for the aerospace industry.

The Texas Space Industry Highway Transportation Needs Assessment was created to define potential strategic investments in the Texas highway network necessary to ensure the space industry continues to grow and thrive. The report was underpinned by four pillars: challenges of moving freight; the ability of current and planned highway infrastructure to support growing needs; the highway characteristics critical to accommodate the space industry’s freight and job access needs; and the highway investments needed to ensure Texas leads the American space industry and economy.  

The report also covers the stakeholder identification process and the input gathering process, followed by key highlights and commonalities around that feedback. It also contains a summary of the findings of the assessment including what was defined as space industry corridors (SIC), tiered as critical, primary, and secondary, as well as the programmatic needs and the SIC Hubs and Corridor deemed critical. The report concludes with funding gaps for SIC investments through a 15-year implementation program, with a recommendation of focusing on the 0 – 5-year timeframe as well as future considerations for success.

About TxDOT
The Texas Department of Transportation is responsible for maintaining 80,000 miles of road and for supporting aviation, rail, and public transportation across the state. TxDOT and its 12,000 employees are committed to working with others to provide safe and reliable transportation solutions for Texas by maintaining a safe system, addressing congestion, connecting Texas communities, and being a Best in Class state agency. Learn more