Statement on La Entrada
April 17th, 2007
Many West Texas cities along the proposed “La Entrada al Pacifico” route view the development of a new highway favorably. However, Marfa, Alpine, and Fort Davis understandably do not. At present, these cities have no truck bypasses or highway loops. Thus, any commercial truck traffic must pass directly through the center of town.
My position has always been that the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) must create alternative routes around Marfa and Alpine and must avoid routing traffic through Fort Davis. This was a fundamental part of the original negotiations regarding “La Entrada.” In addition, Texas must make a significant investment in upgrading the rail line between Presidio and San Angelo, which could provide a viable alternative to commercial trucking.
TxDOT has already committed funds to construct a Highway 349 reliever route around Midland to accommodate truck traffic destined for Lubbock and Amarillo. TxDOT has also conducted a study for a proposed bypass around Lamesa and for the expansion of Hwy 349 south of Lamesa to Midland. However, TxDOT has not yet followed through with its commitment to protect the quality of life in Alpine, Marfa, and the tri-county region.
Speaker of the House, Tom Craddick, authored House Bill 2115, a trade bill designating a trade route through West Texas. As leader of the House of Representatives, Tom Craddick is the driving force behind much legislation. Speaker Craddick is interested in protecting the economic development in West Texas and the quality of life in the area. I am sure he will use his position as House leader and work with me to resolve the concerns of West Texas.
I agree with local leaders that there must be alternative routes. These alternative routes would promote growth and economic development in those cities that encourage the La Entrada Trade Corridor, divert unwanted truck traffic from those who don’t, and address the environmental, social, and economic concerns of Alpine, Marfa, and Fort Davis.
