Texas in the early stages of taking over the tolling and maintenance of the lanes along SH-288

The State Highway 288 Express Tollway, stretching from Pearland to Downtown Houston, often draws attention for its relatively high toll prices, sometimes reaching upwards of $15. Commuter Nicholas Tidwell usually avoids it, opting for the main lanes or frontage road due to what he perceives as steep toll fees for the short distance.

The state of Texas is considering assuming control of tolling and maintenance along SH-288, though the impact on operations and toll prices remains uncertain. Currently, Brazoria County operates its own Toll Road Authority for SH-288, while in Harris County, the Blueridge Transportation Group (BTG) manages the 288 Express Toll under an agreement with TxDOT. Toll rates are dynamically priced based on various factors such as entry and exit points, time of day, and historical usage patterns.

Tidwell likens this pricing model to surge pricing, expressing a preference for flat rates. The state’s proposed takeover involves forming a transportation corporation, with initial directors appointed from TxDOT. However, details regarding tolling policies, pricing adjustments, and community representation on the transportation board remain unclear.

While TxDOT and BTG declined on-camera interviews, they expressed readiness to collaborate in serving Texans. TxDOT stated that decisions post-agreement termination and future tolling policies would fall under the authority of the Texas Transportation Commission. Questions about community representation, toll pricing adjustments, and decision-making criteria are yet to be fully addressed, but inquiries have been made through open records requests to provide further insight.