Bolt-On Texas
Why Reconstruct When You Can Bolt-On?
Smart Growth for a State on the Move
Texas is home to one of the country's most expansive asphalt pavement networks—and it’s been a reliable workhorse. These roads were engineered for projected traffic loads at the time of construction. But as anyone traveling between growing cities can tell you, reality has blown those projections away. In many corridors, traffic volumes are more than four times higher than anticipated.
So what’s the solution?
Full reconstruction is expensive, disruptive, and time-consuming. Bolt-On isn’t.
The Bolt-On Advantage
Bolt-On is a strategic approach that allows TxDOT to widen existing roadways by “bolting on” new asphalt lanes to structurally sound roads. Instead of tearing everything up and starting from scratch, Bolt-On leverages what’s already working and builds on it.
- No need to disturb the existing structure
- Minimal impact on traffic during construction
- 50 years of performance, 50 days of work
- Ideal for both asphalt and concrete roadways in good condition
Reimagining Capacity Across the State
Imagine this:
One Bolt-On project in every TxDOT district.
This isn’t just a vision—it’s a strategy. A Bolt-On project in each district could ease major pinch points between fast-growing urban areas, unlocking mobility where it is most needed.
Whether it’s I-35 between Waco and Austin, the spokes between Houston and its surrounding suburbs, or critical arteries through the Permian Basin—Bolt-On puts us ahead of the curve without the cost and disruption of full reconstruction.
Why This Matters
- Population growth isn't slowing down—our infrastructure shouldn't either.
- Asphalt roads across the state are still structurally sound, even if they’re over capacity.
- Bolt-On is flexible, fast, and forward-looking.
If we begin implementing Bolt-On projects today, we can solve tomorrow’s traffic problems before they happen.
Let’s Stop Rebuilding What Works—Let’s Bolt-On Instead.
Learn more about how this approach is changing the game for highway capacity in Texas.
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