Congress approves Interstate 14, expands to 5 states in infrastructure bill; here's what's next

SAN ANGELO — As part of the historic Build Back Better Plan's infrastructure bill approved by Congress, the Interstate 14 corridor expansion has been passed and is pending President Joe Biden's signature.

This marks a big moment for San Angelo, which is the largest Texas city without an interstate. Local officials had much to say about the project's movement.

"Both the City and County have worked tirelessly for years to advance recognition of the I-14 corridor and to move it through the legislative processes," said Guy Andrews, economic development director for San Angelo. "I-14 is anticipated to intersect with I-27 in San Angelo, so this is a real game changer for our ability to attract businesses and industry to San Angelo, Tom Green County and the Concho Valley."

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Mayor Brenda Gunter added that this is critical to San Angelo's growth and ability to get resources, such as fuel, food and fiber. This expansion will include a route extension west to San Angelo and Midland-Odessa, and interstate connections to the Port of Corpus Christi, the Port of Houston, the ports at Beaumont and Port Arthur, and the Port of Gulfport.

Interstate 14 map

"San Angelo and Tom Green County have a long history of advocacy for our area to be part of the national interstate highway system," said Steve Floyd, Tom Green County judge. "This will allow phased improvements along the corridor that supports economic, military, safety and mobility initiatives."

As for what is next, the interstate's expansion will cross five states - Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia. The I-14/Gulf Coast Strategic Highway Coalition will need to work with state departments on final route selection, environmental clearance, selection of priority projects and funding, according to a release.

Prior coverage of Interstate 14:

Aug. 5, 2021: Interstate 14 amendment unanimously approved by U.S. Senate

March 21, 2019: City council endorses interstate extension through San Angelo

June 30, 2018: Interstate 14 project faces serious funding shortfalls

Feb. 20, 2018: Former San Angelo mayor appointed to Texas Transportation Commission

Feb. 12, 2018: Trump's outline for infrastructure bill holds good news for I-14 expansion

Jan. 19, 2018: Conaway introduces legislation to expand I-14 through San Angelo

Jan. 13, 2018: San Angelo officials travel to D.C. in hopes of bringing interstate to city

Feb. 3, 2017: State designates first portion of I-14

Feb. 14, 2016: UPDATES: Interstate 14 project awaits further congressional action

Jan. 28, 2016: Potential interstate could increase business growth, tourism and traffic

Alana Edgin is a journalist covering Crime and Courts in West Texas. Send her a news tip at aedgin@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on San Angelo Standard-Times: Interstate 14 Texas Corridor approved by Congress. Here's what's next