Texas Sunset Advisory Commission logoThe Texas Sunset Advisory Commission’s report on the Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT) was less than favorable. Citing problems the department’s credibility which has resulted in public mistrust, the Sunset Commission recommended the creation of a legislative oversight committee and that the agency be reviewed again in four years rather, a departure from the usual twelve-year cycle.

Other recommendations:

  • Replacing the 5-member Texas Transportation Commission and the Executive Director with a single Commissioner of Transportation, whose appointment by the Governor would have to be confirmed by the Legislature and re-confirmed every two years.
  • Providing better access to independent transportation information and research;
    Increasing transparency of TxDOT’s transportation planning and project development process;
  • Improving TxDOT’s public involvement efforts;
  • Making the department’s contracting functions more accountable, particularly its development of comprehensive development agreements.

The next step will be July 15, when a public hearing will be held in Austin regarding the future of TXDOT, followed by a vote by the Sunset Commission in September, and legislative action in the 2009 session.

TXDOT Sunset Advisory Commission Staff Report

TXDOT Sunset Advisory Commission Self Evaluation

Commission releases scathing report on TXDOT - Austin Business Journal

TXDOT credibility in political pothole - Austin American-Statesman Editorial Board