City of Houston to receive $15 million TIGER grant

Houston has received a U.S. Department of Transportation grant for infrastructure projects and upgrades throughout the city.

The $15 million grant falls under the Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery grant program. With the program, funds will be used to build a variety of improvements, including more than 18 miles of hike and bike trails, sidewalk improvements and on-street bikeways. Reps. Gene Green, Al Green and Sheila Jackson Lee were instrumental in supporting the city's application.

"I am pleased that the Department of Transportation has chosen to make this important investment in our communities," said Rep. Gene Green in a press release. "Improving our pedestrian and bike infrastructure will make it easier for our constituents to get to work and run errands."

"The jobs associated with these transportation projects will help our city's economy continue to move forward," said Rep. Al Green in the release.

Houston has the largest number of bike commuters in Texas. The city's plan will improve safety for pedestrians and bicyclists while supporting the current demand for trails and bikeways. Improvements and additions will also connect important destinations, including Houston's major universities and downtown, and provide alternative transportation to economically disadvantaged neighborhoods.