BILL ANALYSIS

C.S.H.B. 3720

By: Thompson

Transportation

Committee Report (Substituted)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The bill author has informed the committee that there is increased traffic congestion at railroad crossings in her district and that there are several new developments in the area that will increase population and exacerbate traffic congestion, especially when a train stops on the tracks and completely prevents traffic flow. The bill author has also informed the committee that current at-grade crossings endanger high-traffic roads in the district by reducing the ability of first responders to rapidly respond to emergencies. C.S.H.B. 3720 seeks to reduce these risks, alleviate delays, and improve traffic flow by requiring TxDOT to provide for a plan for two bridge crossings at specified intersections in Harris County to separate rail tracks and high-use roadways in order to improve traffic efficiency and public safety.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE IMPACT

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly create a criminal offense, increase the punishment for an existing criminal offense or category of offenses, or change the eligibility of a person for community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.

ANALYSIS

C.S.H.B. 3720 requires the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), for the purpose of reducing traffic congestion on public roads, to develop a plan, conduct an environmental review, and propose a design for bridges in Harris County crossing the railroad tracks at the following intersections to provide rail-roadway grade separation:

· the intersection of Little York Road and Hirsch Road; and

· the intersection of Tidwell Road and Hirsch Road.

The bill requires TxDOT to construct those bridges for the same purpose of reducing traffic congestion on public roads.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2025.

COMPARISON OF INTRODUCED AND SUBSTITUTE

C.S.H.B. 3720 differs from the introduced in minor or nonsubstantive ways to make technical corrections.