The Texas Transportation Commission gave the Texas Dept. of Transportation authority to move forward with funding for the Transportation Enhancement Program.

The federally funded program supports transportation-related activities that promote the quality of the environment through aesthetic enhancements associated with transportation. The current federal transportation bill, SAFETEA-LU, requires transportation enhancement projects be funded over the life of the bill.

The program provides funding for projects that contribute to the livelihood of communities, promote the quality of the environment and enhance the aesthetics of roadways.

Projects were selected on a competitive basis. TxDOT issued a call for project nominations, and 54 projects selected were culled from 200 project nominations.

Selected projects are eligible for reimbursement for up to 80% of allowable costs. The entity nominating a project is responsible for the remaining cost share, including cost overruns.