Green Light Houston Delegation with Texas Transportation Commission - Photo courtesy of TxDOT

Adorned in Green Light stickers and filled with a shared passion for better mobility, nearly 100 transportation advocates from the Houston region descended on Austin last Thursday, February 26.  Making history for Houston, the day began at the Texas Transportation Commission meeting where attendees honored the work of retired Houston District Engineer Mike Alford with standing ovations and numerous resolutions.  Green Light leaders also had an opportunity to thank Chairman Ted Houghton and Commissioner Fred Underwood for their dedication to the Commission as they retire from many years of service.   

After a quick legislative briefing by TAG Executive Director Andrea French, Green Light leaders divided into seven teams to meet privately with dozens of state leaders and their staff.  They shared our region's economic impact and mobility needs and discussed stances on SB5/SJR5 (Vehicle Sales Tax Allocation).  Discussions related to other funding options, including local funding proposals, proved fruitful and educational to our leaders.  State officials were thankful for such a display of passion and impressed by the group's expansive knowledge of funding issues.

Commissioner Jeff Moseley and TAG Vice Chair Billy Cooke show their Green Light support at the Highlight Houston reception!

 

Thank you to everyone who helped make history for the Houston region.  Special thanks to TAG, BayTran, the Greater 288 Partnership, the 36A Coalition and the 249 Partnership in uniting for mobility.  Thank you also to Rep. Jim Murphy (TX-133) and his staff for making everyone feel so welcome in Austin!