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Construction Begins on SH 161 After TxDOT, NTTA Agree on Negotiated Value

Construction began April 21 on State Highway 161 along several portions of the right-of-way as a result of an agreement reached the previous day between the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) the North Texas Tollway Authority (NTTA).

TxDOT and the NTTA officially agreed on a negotiated value of $458 million for State Highway 161. The value includes reimbursement to the Regional Transportation Council (RTC) for construction of segments 2 and 3 and the remainder being an upfront payment of $177 million to be utilized on transportation projects throughout the North Texas region. The NTTA will also pay to construct segment 4, projected to cost $610 million.

Ultimately, SH 161 will run from SH 183 to IH 20. However, two lanes of frontage roads in each direction will be complete from SH 183 to IH 30 in time for the August 2009 kickoff of the Dallas Cowboys at their new Arlington stadium. The main lanes from SH 183 to IH 30 are scheduled to be open in time for the 2011 Super Bowl that will be held at the same facility. The total SH 161 project will be completed from SH 183 to IH 20 by June 2012.

The action taken by the NTTA is not an official offer to develop SH 161. The agreement allows construction to begin and ensures that the road will be built as a toll road. Official acceptance of the project by the NTTA is dependent on an investment-grade traffic and revenue report, rating confirmations on the NTTA’s bonds and further financial analysis as well as approval by its Board of Directors.

Beginning in year 53, the NTTA will share with TxDOT 50 percent of SH 161 revenues, minus operating and maintenance costs as well rehabilitation and reconstruction. The NTTA and TxDOT will also share the costs of all capital improvements beginning in year 53.

NTTA has indicated it will either accept or waive its rights to SH 161 by mid summer. If the NTTA does not acquire SH 161, TxDOT can pursue a Comprehensive Development Agreement.