Collin County Wants Voters to Approve $750 Million for Gridlock-relieving Road Projects

Collin County commissioners know something has to be done to mitigate the traffic gridlock on its highways that is only expected to worsen as more people pour into North Texas' northern suburbs. On Monday, commissioners unanimously approved putting three propositions on the Nov. 6 ballot to pay for $750 million in transportation improvements. They predict they'll be able to do the work without raising residents' tax rate.If approved, that bond money will be earmarked for transportation projects, including $600 million for freeways, $140 million for strategic arterial roads and city/county thoroughfare projects and $10 million for open spaces, such as parks and trails. Specifics are still being hammered out, but the list includes building a new north-south highway east of U.S. 75 and constructing the outer loop and improving U.S. Highway 380. Collin County Judge Keith Self said upgrading U.S. 380 is the county's No. 1 priority with the bond funds.   Continue reading...