In a recent update from the Lone Star State, the Texas Transportation Commission has been making strides, both in earthly ventures and beyond. Commissioner Robert “Robie” Vaughn shared his odyssey into outer space via a Virgin Galactic flight earlier this year. "Do not ever give up on your dreams, no matter your age or circumstances," Vaughn said, aiming to inspire TxDOT with his celestial experience, as reported by the Texas Department of Transportation.
At the other end of the service spectrum, the commission bid farewell to Fleet Operations Division Director Dalton Pratt, who's clocking out after 17 years of dedicated service. Pratt, who spent a decade at the helm of a TxDOT fleet worth $639 million, previously served in a variety of roles within the agency and completed a 29-year tour with the United States Air Force.
Meanwhile, on the ground, the commission isn't skimping on infrastructure improvements. It's dolling out a hefty $772 million slated for 79 highway improvement projects along with an additional $96 million for 65 routine maintenance tasks, and topping that with $1.8 million for a bout of building construction and rehabilitation, according to the Texas Department of Transportation.
In a boost for local aviators, they've also cleared $12 million in grants for airport enhancements spanning 11 projects across Texas. Aviation Division Director Dan Harmon, cited the influx of state funding from the 88th Texas Legislature, as giving them "incredible flexibility to expand both the number of projects and their scope as well," per the department’s official announcement.
