The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) announced on Thursday that the state’s 2027 Unified Transportation Program (UTP) will invest over $138 billion in road, transit and freight projects throughout Texas. The plan includes $95 billion for new projects and $43 billion for routine maintenance, with a significant share directed to the fast‑growing counties of Collin, Denton and Tarrant.
Why the plan matters for local families
TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said the ten‑year plan is designed to meet the “scale and complexity” of transportation needs in one of the nation’s fastest‑growing states. By focusing on safety, congestion relief and reliable movement of people and goods, the program supports families who rely on daily commutes, school buses and regional trade routes.
Collin County: Expanding US 380
Collin County will see the largest concentration of new work, centered on US 380. The Dallas District has begun the first phase of a 30‑mile freeway upgrade, with future phases adding a Spur 399 extension and a new bypass around McKinney. Key authorizations include:
- $435 million to widen a six‑lane stretch in Frisco to an eight‑lane roadway with a continuous frontage road.
- $39.95 million for a new freeway alignment at State Spur 399 from US 75 to US 380.
- $38.23 million for an eight‑lane bypass along Bloomdale Road East, easing traffic north of McKinney.
- $125 million for a new alignment from Trinity Falls Parkway to SH 5, slated to start in 2033.
- $153.97 million for engineering, right‑of‑way acquisition and early construction at FM 2933 to US 380 and East University Drive.
The University Drive and US 380 intersection ranked as the 52nd‑most congested roadway in Texas in 2025, underscoring the need for these upgrades.
Denton County: Widening I‑35W
Denton County’s improvements focus on I‑35W, a vital north‑south corridor for commuters and freight. The following projects have been authorized:
- $77.23 million to widen I‑35W at FM 1171.
- $29.77 million to widen I‑35W at FM 1171 and Cleveland Gibbs Road.
- $11.35 million to widen I‑35W at Cleveland Gibbs Road to Denton Creek Drive.
- $34.71 million to widen I‑35W at Denton Creek Drive to FM 407.
- $47.85 million to widen I‑35W from north of Robson Ranch Road and Crawford Road to Allred Road and John Paine Road.
- $85.01 million to widen I‑35W at Allred Road and John Paine Road.
- $30.96 million to widen I‑35W at FM 2449.
- $22.77 million to widen I‑35W at Denton Creek Drive.
- $38.22 million to widen FM 1385 from US 380 to Union Park Boulevard.
These expansions will reduce bottlenecks, improve safety for families traveling to work and school, and support the region’s growing logistics sector.
Tarrant County: Targeted improvements in Fort Worth
In Tarrant County, the Fort Worth District’s new authorizations are modest but strategic. The primary project is a $60 million upgrade at the US 81 intersection with Wagley Robertson Road and Bonds Ranch Road in north Fort Worth, improving traffic flow and operational safety.
Broader impact on Texas’ transportation network
Beyond highways, the UTP also funds public‑transportation, maritime, aviation, rail, freight, international trade and bicycle‑pedestrian connectivity. By preserving existing roadways and adding capacity where congestion is highest, the plan aims to keep Texas’ supply chain robust—a critical factor for families who depend on timely deliveries of groceries, medical supplies and other essentials.
Local officials and business leaders have welcomed the announcements, noting that the investments align with community priorities for safer streets, shorter commutes and stronger economic growth. As construction begins, residents can expect phased disruptions but ultimately smoother travel across the three counties.
TxDOT’s comprehensive approach reflects a commitment to practical outcomes, ensuring that Texas’ transportation system remains a reliable backbone for families, businesses and the nation’s commerce.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Denton — read the source article.
