Southeast Texas Congressman Brian Babin, of Woodville, Chairman of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee and senior member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, has introduced the I-47 Future Interstate Act of 2026, to designate U.S. Highway 287 as Interstate Route 47 in honor of President Donald Trump. Jefferson County Judge Jeff Branick, Vice Chair of Tex-21, told The Examiner "Jefferson County is excited about the support of Congressman Babin and Congressman Randy Weber for the new I-47 corridor. It has the potential to transform Highway 287 into the newest, safest, and most technologically advanced highway in the country". Judge Branick served as Chair of Texas Department of Transportation committee studying Highway 287 interstate feasibility and the economic impact of business and industry along the route. "There is no doubt converting Highway 287 to interstate will pay significant dividends in the form of jobs and growth" added Branick. Congressman Babin's Interstate Act of 2026 redesignates Highway 287 as a I-47 and High-Priority Corridor. Highway 287 runs from Port Arthur to Montana.
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