Representative David Leibowitz (San Antonio/Helotes) and Representative Wayne Smith (the author of the bill) had the following exchange on the floor and had it entered into the House Journal as Legislative Intent.
LEIBOWITZ’ QUESTION:
1. As the bill left the House, certain managed lane projects were exempted from the moratorium but we added an amendment to ensure that the CDA toll project for Highway 281 and Loop 1604 in Bexar County was included in the moratorium, correct?
SMITH’S ANSWER: YES
LEIBOWITZ’ QUESTION:
2. And it’s my understanding that in the Senate, the moratorium only extends to Highway 281 but not Loop 1604. Is that correct.
SMITH’S ANSWER: YES
LEIBOWITZ’ QUESTION:
3. The CDA for 281 also includes Loop 1604. Does the moratorium put the 281/1604 project on hold or just the 281 portion of the project.
SMITH’S ANSWER: It is my belief…the intent is that since 281 and 1604 were developed together as a joint project, the entire 281/1604 comprehensive development agreement would be subject to the moratorium, and if Loop 1604 wanted to be developed as a toll project, a new Request for Qualification (RFQ or bid) would need to be started on Loop 1604 as a standalone project.
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Translation, there is NOT enough time to put out a new RFQ for 1604 before the moratorium becomes law, and once the moratorium becomes law, no new RFQs will be permitted under the CDA moratorium. Therefore, WE WON! God bless David Leibowitz and God bless Texas!