TITLE: Recognizing February 15, 2017, as TEX-21 Legislative Day at the State Capitol.

SUMMARY: Recognizing February 15, 2017, as TEX-21 Legislative Day at the State Capitol.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Members of Transportation Excellence for the 21st Century and its U.S. 287 Corridor Task Force are gathering in Austin on February 15, 2017, for their legislative day at the State Capitol; and WHEREAS, A research organization composed of both government and business leaders, TEX-21 was founded in 1999 with the mission of increasing funding for the Texas Department of Transportation in order to better address infrastructure needs statewide; over the years, the nonprofit has served as an important advocate for various corridors and ports across Texas; and WHEREAS, Current TEX-21 priorities include expiring revenue enhancements, the Third Coast Initiative, and the U.S. 287 Corridor Study; and WHEREAS, Though its U.S. 287 Corridor Task Force, TEX-21 is working toward improving U.S. Route 287 to meet interstate highway standards; the highway is one of the most vital transport corridors in the Lone Star State, stretching northwest from Port Arthur across Texas and through the United States, as well as intersecting or merging with nearly every major highway in the state; moreover, it serves as an alternative truck route from the Port of Beaumont, which is the nation's largest military equipment port, and the Port of Port Arthur to the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex and the American Midwest, and as a critical evacuation route for Texas Gulf residents during hurricanes; and WHEREAS, TEX-21 has helped to augment safety, enhance mobility for people and goods, and create jobs throughout the Lone Star State, and it is most fitting to take this opportunity to honor the organization; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 85th Texas Legislature hereby recognize February 15, 2017, as TEX-21 Legislative Day in Austin and commend all those associated with Transportation Excellence for the 21st Century and the U.S. 287 Corridor Task Force for their contributions in behalf of their fellow citizens. White Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 431 was adopted by the House on February 15, 2017, by a non-record vote. Chief Clerk of the House