Refinancing Texas Transportation (1728-S)

A range of actions to address the transportation revenue shortfall is identified in this report. "Refinancing" refers to the fact that while existing dedicated motor fuels tax and vehicle registration fee sources will continue to be the most significant portions of the TxDOT revenue stream, the funding environment and opportunities are changing¿there is also a greater emphasis on increasing the flexibility of funding actions.|General concepts recommended for action include opening State Infrastructure Banks for all modes, using toll highway and value pricing concepts for their ability to generate revenue and to act as a match for federal funds, and using practices that are familiar to the private sector but new to the Texas Department of Transportation. A non-revenue action that is an integral part of addressing the funding needs is an education and information campaign oriented toward the public and decision makers. Emphasizing the role of transportation in the economic and social well-being of society will improve the competitive position of transportation in an era of limited governmental and private sector resources.|Funding options for specific modes were similar in that they relied on partnerships between the public agencies, the transportation provider, and the users. Integrating the planning activities and the funding options among these groups for each mode will result in a stronger financial position and better operations for the transportation system.|Products from the study include a short executive summary oriented toward the public, business leaders, and decision makers; a report summarizing the analyses and presenting recommendations, and an appendix with more detailed information.