CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — State leaders say two long-discussed Coastal Bend transportation projects are finally moving forward just not at the speed many drivers want. The expansion of Highway 361 and the construction of a second causeway to the island are officially in the state’s long-range plan, but both remain years from breaking ground.
Highway 361 is currently in the environmental study and schematic design phase. TXDOT expects construction to begin around 2030. The redesign would turn the 15-mile corridor into a safer, more modern roadway with two travel lanes, a raised median, dedicated left-turn lanes where needed, sidewalks, and for the first time lighting. The highway has been the scene of multiple crashes and fatal accidents over the years, with many blaming the pitch-black conditions at night.
State Representative Todd Hunter said he’s been pushing TXDOT to move as quickly as allowed under state and federal rules…