6/9/03-Legislation that would allow the Texas Transportation Department to fast-track the construction of improvements to highways deemed dangerous has died.
The bill, sponsored by Sen. Steve Ogden, R-College Station, was still in a Senate panel when the Legislature adjourned earlier this month.
The Texas Transportation Commission now has authority to speed construction in emergency cases. SB661 would have broadened the scope of an emergency to specifically include unsafe roads.

3/7/03-Sen. Steve Ogden has authored legislation that would allow the state Transportation Department to fast-track the construction of improvements to highways deemed dangerous.
The Texas Transportation Commission now has authority to speed construction in emergency cases, but Ogden's bill would broaden the scope of an emergency to specifically include unsafe roads.
SB661 would permit the commission to declare "a safety emergency based on criteria established by rules adopted by the commission that take into consideration accident data, traffic volume, pavement geometry, or other conditions that create or exacerbate a hazard to the safety of the traveling public," Ogden, R-College Station, wrote.
A public hearing on the measure is scheduled for Monday, March 10.
The bill is in the Senate Committee on Infrastructure Development and Security. For bill status, call (512) 463-2182.