Released by The Texas Department of Public Safety:
TYLER - In another example of collaborating with partners to advance
transportation projects around Texas, today the Texas Transportation Commission
voted to transfer ownership of Loop 49 from the state to the Northeast Texas
Regional Mobility Authority (NET RMA). Locally known as Toll 49, the transfer
includes 26 miles of roadway from Interstate 20 to State Highway 110 southeast
of Tyler. Loop 49, which has been in the works for more than 30 years, now is
operating in segments south and west of town with the latest Segment 3B opening
soon, connecting the facility with I-20. Future segments are being planned to
further connect the Longview-Tyler region and provide additional mobility
options in the area.
Today's action by the Commission is a big step for many people who
have made the loop an economic stimulator for the region.
"Transferring Toll 49 to the NET RMA is a key milestone for those
who have seen the vision of a high-speed loop around Tyler become a reality,"
said Commissioner Jeff Austin III, Texas Transportation Commission. "Through
regional cooperation setting regional priorities, this highway not only
continues to be a lever in enhancing economic development and business
activity, it also improves quality of life in the region."
Today's action is also a prelude to an event this weekend where
local dignitaries celebrate the opening of Segment 3B of Toll 49. That segment
opening is scheduled for the end of March. For more information about Toll 49,
visit loop49.org
For media inquiries, contact TxDOT Media Relations at MediaRelations@txdot.gov
or (512) 463-8700.
