Background:
SUBJECT: RESOLUTION recognizing the passage of S.B. 1990 as it relates to the Gulf Coast Rail District’s authority to include advanced transportation services amending the Texas Transportation Code Chapter 171 and endorses the Gulf Coast Rail District’s use of such powers.
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended City Council approve the Resolution recognizing S.B. 1990 as it pertains to the Gulf Coast Rail District.
SPECIFIC EXPLANATION: The Gulf Coast Rail District is a political subdivision of the State of Texas created by Harris County, City of Houston and Fort Bend County under the authority granted by the State of Texas in Section 171 of the Transportation Code. The Gulf Coast Rail District is seeking a Resolution from the City of Houston and each District member entity acknowledging the passage of S.B. 1990 during the 87th Legislative Session that began January 12, 2021. This bill was a follow-on to Texas Transportation Code Section 171 which authorized the Gulf Coast Rail District to implement commuter rail. S.B. 1990 expands the District’s modal opportunities to include advanced technologies, including bus rapid transit to our transportation toolbox.
ACTION RECOMMENDED:
It is recommended City Council approve the Resolution recognizing S.B. 1990 as it pertains to the Gulf Coast Rail District.
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Carol Ellinger Haddock, P.E.
Director
Houston Public Works