State Rep. John Bucy, a Democrat from Austin and Williamson County, is proposing a new high-speed rail line that would connect North Texas to San Antonio along the I-35 corridor. He believes that having a bullet train linking major cities like Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio would benefit both residents and visitors.
House Bill 483, if passed, would require the Texas Department of Transportation (TXDoT) to work with a private partner to develop this new rail line. Additionally, HB 542 would allow the use of state highway funds for transit-oriented projects and public roads to support the initiative.
While there are no detailed plans yet for the bullet train to San Antonio, Bucy sees this as a step in the right direction. He emphasized the importance of getting TXDoT involved in the planning process and securing a contract to move the project forward.
The response to Bucy’s proposed legislation has been positive, with widespread support from constituents, county commissioners, and elected officials. Peter LeCody, president of Texas Rail Advocates, described the bills as an “early Christmas gift” for passenger rail advocates, hoping that the legislature will take action on this initiative.
The recently formed Texas Passenger Rail Advisory Committee, led by officials like Travis County judge Andy Brown and Bexar County Judge Peter Sakai, is actively working on advancing passenger rail projects in the state. They are seeking $300 million from the legislature to establish a Rail Relocation and Improvement Fund to support these efforts.
LeCody stressed the importance of exploring alternative modes of transportation, especially considering the ongoing construction along I-35. He believes that high-speed rail connecting major cities like Austin, San Antonio, Fort Worth, and the Rio Grande Valley could offer a solution to transportation challenges in the region.
In addition to Bucy’s proposal, North Texas leaders are advocating for the creation of a high-speed rail authority to oversee the development of bullet train routes linking Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, and other parts of the state. This coordinated effort could streamline the planning and implementation of these ambitious rail projects.
Overall, the push for high-speed rail in Texas is gaining momentum, with key stakeholders and officials working together to make these transportation visions a reality. The potential benefits of improved connectivity and reduced travel times between major cities highlight the significance of investing in modern transit infrastructure for the state’s future growth and development.
