About Us
Connecting the Heartland to the World
The Ports-to-Plains Alliance
The Ports-to-Plains Alliance is a grassroots, non-profit coalition of communities, businesses, and advocates working to expand and enhance transportation infrastructure from Texas to North Dakota — and ultimately, into Canada and Mexico. Our mission is to promote the development of a modern, efficient, and safe Future Interstate Highway corridor that drives economic growth, delivers tourism, serves supply chains, strengthens national and international trade, supports agriculture and energy production, and improves quality of life across America’s Heartland.
Join us. Advocate. Invest. Move forward.
With strong regional partnerships and a shared vision, the Alliance champions the transformation of the Ports-to-Plains Corridor into a Future Interstate Highway — unlocking opportunity and connectivity for rural and urban communities alike. Together, we’re building the future.
Our Mission in Action
The Ports-to-Plains Alliance leads a multi-state effort to upgrade and expand a 2,300-mile corridor, designated in parts as Future Interstate 27. We unite more than 200 member communities, regional coalitions, and private-sector partners to support the four-lane expansion and Interstate designation of the entire corridor across nine states. Our core activities are focused on achieving this vision.
Advocacy
Securing Federal and State investment in highway infrastructure along the Ports-to-Plains Corridor, including Future Interstate designation and funding.
Economic Development
Promoting transportation projects that enhance trade, energy, agriculture, and tourism across the Heartland.
Partnerships
Building regional and national partnerships among communities, businesses, and policymakers to advance corridor improvements.
Leadership & Education
Providing thoughtful leadership and public education on the benefits of a modern, connected corridor through research, outreach, and annual conferences.
Transforming Rural America’s Transportation Future
In the mid-1990s, civic and elected leaders in Lubbock, Texas, recognized the need to extend the economic impact of Interstate 27 by upgrading U.S. 87 and U.S. 287 to the north and south. Their vision was to strengthen rural economies by capturing the growing opportunities of north-south trade. What began as a regional effort has grown into a multi-state, bi-national coalition committed to developing a modern, high-capacity highway corridor.
Today, the Ports-to-Plains Alliance supports three federally designated High Priority Corridors on the National Highway System, collectively spanning over 2,300 miles across the United States. These corridors form the backbone of a future Interstate system reaching from the U.S.-Mexico border to the Canadian border.
The Ports-to-Plains Corridor Network
Beyond the U.S., the corridor connects to key trade infrastructure in Canada and Mexico (via border crossings at Del Rio, Eagle Pass and Laredo, and along the borders of Alberta and Saskatchewan).
Ports-to-Plains Corridor
(Laredo, TX to Colorado)
This segment extends through Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Colorado, connecting to the Heartland Expressway. The corridor in Texas and New Mexico has been authorized by Congress as a Future Interstate Highway (I-27).
Heartland Expressway (Colorado to South Dakota, through Nebraska)
Extends from Denver and Limon, Colorado, through western Nebraska to Rapid City, South Dakota with a spur connecting to I-25 in Wyoming.
Theodore Roosevelt Expressway
(South Dakota to Canada)
Runs north from Rapid City, South Dakota, through western North Dakota, eastern Montana, and into Canada.
The Road to Today
2020’s
February– 2026
H.R. 7148, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026 Delivers $19.24 Million for Ports-to-Plains Alliance Projects
The H.R. 7148, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026, signed on February 3, 2026, delivers $19.24 million in federal funding to advance critical planning, safety, and infrastructure projects across the Ports-to-Plains Alliance corridor, strengthening regional connectivity, freight mobility, and progress toward Future Interstate development.
july – 2025
I-27 Feasibility Study from Amarillo to Dumas Study Published
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the feasibility, costs and logistics related to updating the corridor to interstate standards, including extending I-27 from SL 335 to north of Dumas along US 287.
May-2025
Minatare – US-385 Final Environmental Assessment Published
The Final Environmental Assessment evaluates the proposed improvements to transform the existing two-lane sections of US Highway 26 and Nebraska Link 62A between Minatare and the US 385 junction into a four-lane divided expressway using a “2+2” widening strategy.
May-2025
North Dakota Senate Bill 2012 Approves Funding for U.S. 85
$100 million (one-time) from the Strategic Investment and Improvements Fund (SIIF) – This appropriation was expressly designated in SB 2012 for a US 85 project from reference point 120.3 north to the Long X Bridge. Also authorizes the Department of Transportation to access bonding authority or other revenue sources up to $155 million for construction on US 85 during the 2025-27 biennium.
April-2025
The official celebration for designation of a 4.2-mile segment of U.S. Highway 87 as part of Interstate 27
This event marked the first segment of I-27 to be officially designated since the corridor was federally recognized as a Future Interstate through Texas and New Mexico. The newly designated section extends from South Loop 289 in Lubbock to 0.1 mile north of County Road 7500 and was already constructed to interstate standards.
March-2024
I-27 Numbering Act of 2023 Becomes Law
Federal leaders delivered $29.165 million in total appropriations to advance critical Future Interstate and corridor improvements across Texas, New Mexico, and Nebraska. Ronny Jackson secured funding for US 287 interstate design from Amarillo to Dumas and State Loop 335 widening in Amarillo. Jodey Arrington advanced interstate planning on U.S. 87 from Lubbock to Tahoka, while August Pfluger secured operational improvements on US 277 in San Angelo. Additional Senate-supported investments included Ports-to-Plains interstate planning in New Mexico, championed by Martin Heinrich and Ben Ray Luján, and major Heartland Expressway improvements in Nebraska secured by Deb Fischer.
March-2024
FY 24 Congressionally Directed Spending and Community Funding Project Approved
Federal leaders delivered $29.165 million in total appropriations to advance critical Future Interstate and corridor improvements across Texas, New Mexico, and Nebraska. Ronny Jackson secured funding for US 287 interstate design from Amarillo to Dumas and State Loop 335 widening in Amarillo. Jodey Arrington advanced interstate planning on U.S. 87 from Lubbock to Tahoka, while August Pfluger secured operational improvements on US 277 in San Angelo. Additional Senate-supported investments included Ports-to-Plains interstate planning in New Mexico, championed by Martin Heinrich and Ben Ray Luján, and major Heartland Expressway improvements in Nebraska secured by Deb Fischer.
January-2024
I-27 System in Texas Implementation Plan
TThe I-27 System in Texas report outlines a comprehensive plan to expand Interstate 27 by identifying Future Interstate Segments (FIS) and required city location studies, creating a connected West and South Texas Interstate network that improves safety, freight mobility, regional connectivity, and long-term economic growth.
December-2023
USDOT Awards $55 Million Grant for U.S. 85 Theodore Roosevelt Expressway Expansion Project
The U.S. Department of Transportation awarded a $55 million federal grant to advance the expansion of U.S. Highway 85 as part of the Theodore Roosevelt Expressway in western North Dakota. The funding supports widening more than 13 miles of US 85 in McKenzie County, improving safety, increasing capacity, and strengthening a nationally significant freight corridor serving agriculture, energy development, and interstate commerce while advancing the route toward future interstate standards.
March-2022
Future Interstate Designation Secured for Texas and New Mexico
Congress designates the Texas and New Mexico portions of the corridor as a Future Interstate in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023—the Alliance’s most significant policy victory to date.
October-2021
I-27 Advisory Committee, established by S.B. 1474, holds first meeting in Texas
I-27 Advisory Committee, established by S.B. 1474, holds first meeting in Texas.
June-2021
Creations of I-27 Advisory Committee: S.B. 1474 Becomes Law
The I-27 Advisory Committee is established to provide TxDOT with information on concerns and interests along the Ports-to-Plains Corridor; and advise the department on transportation improvements impacting the Ports-to-Plains Corridor.
June-2021
Ports-to-Plains Corridor Economic Impact Study (New Mexico)
The study was prepared for the Eastern Plains Council of Governments and the New Mexico Department of Transportation to analyze the economic effects of the Ports-to-Plains Corridor in New Mexico, including impacts on regional commerce, freight mobility, employment, and economic development opportunities associated with future Interstate upgrades. It evaluates how improved corridor connectivity supports economic growth across northeast New Mexico and the broader region.
April-2021
North Dakota Legislature Approves $50 million for Theodore Roosevelt Expressway
TxDOT shall conduct a comprehensive study of the Ports-to-Plains Corridor. The study must evaluate the feasibility of, and the costs and logistical matters associated with, improvements that create a continuous flow, four-lane divided highway that meets interstate highway standards to the extent possible.
october – 2020
Ports-to-Plains Corridor Interstate Feasibility Study Published
Recommends a full upgrade of the Ports-to-Plains Corridor to an interstate including relief routes. In addition, the Advisory Committee recommends safety and operational improvements to address immediate needs in the Corridor. The Advisory Committee also outlines several policy recommendations to advance the implementation of the recommendations in this report.
2010’s
July-2019
Nearly $8.3 Million INFRA Grant for Colorado Ports-to-Plains Project
U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) is awarding the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) a nearly $8.3 million Infrastructure For Rebuilding America (INFRA) grant for its US 287 project. The project seeks to add approximately 12 miles of passing lanes along US 287 in Southeastern Colorado known as the Ports-to-Plains Corridor.
June-2019
Ports-to-Plains Corridor Interstate Feaibility Study Established: HB 1079 Becomes Law
TxDOT shall conduct a comprehensive study of the Ports-to-Plains Corridor. The study must evaluate the feasibility of, and the costs and logistical matters associated with, improvements that create a continuous flow, four-lane divided highway that meets interstate highway standards to the extent possible
March-2019
US-85 Watford City to I-94 Evironmental Impact Statement Published
The Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) and Record of Decision (ROD) for the U.S. Highway 85 expansion from the I-94 interchange to the Watford City Bypass (EIS #20190026) were published on March 15, 2019, by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). This project aims to improve safety and capacity on this corridor, with key documentation detailing geological, environmental, and engineering impacts.
November-2014
Initial Assessment Report: Extension of I-27/Ports-to-Plains Corridor Published
The Ports-to-Plains Alliance first initiated discussion about the potential of an extension of Interstate 27 along the Ports-to-Plains Corridor in 2014. The Initial Assessment Report, assessed the Ports-to-Plains Corridor in Texas for 1) existing conditions; 2) potential upgrade options; 3) a summary of public outreach and reaction; and, 4) potential next steps for TxDOT to consider toward further planning, public outreach and corridor development, using four segments.
October-2014
Heartland Expressway Corridor Development and Management Plan Published
The Heartland Expressway Corridor Development and Management Plan (CDMP) establishes a coordinated, multi-state framework to guide planning, prioritization, and delivery of the Heartland Expressway. The plan identifies corridor limits and standards, assesses existing conditions and gaps, prioritizes projects, and outlines phasing, funding strategies, and interagency coordination needed to advance the corridor toward full expressway/Interstate-ready performance—improving safety, freight mobility, regional connectivity, and long-term economic development across participating states.
November-2013
US Highway 85 McKenzie County Road 16 to Junction US Highway 2 Environmental Assessment Published
The Environmental Assessment (EA) for U.S. Highway 85 from McKenzie County Road 16 to the junction with U.S. Highway 2 evaluates proposed roadway improvements aimed at enhancing safety, capacity, and freight mobility along one of western North Dakota’s most critical transportation corridors. This segment serves significant agricultural, energy, and commercial traffic, including heavy truck volumes associated with regional oil and gas development. The EA examines potential environmental impacts to land use, wetlands, wildlife habitat, cultural resources, and community access, while identifying mitigation measures to minimize effects. The study supports advancing the corridor toward future interstate standards, improving regional connectivity, and ensuring long-term economic competitiveness for McKenzie County and the surrounding region.
May-2011
Build Nebraska Act Passed by Nebraska Legislature
The Build Nebraska Act is a landmark transportation funding law enacted by the Nebraska Legislature in 2011 (LB 84) to provide a dedicated, long-term revenue stream for major highway construction projects across the state. The Act redirected a portion of existing state sales tax revenue to the Nebraska Department of Transportation, specifically for capital highway improvements rather than routine maintenance.
2000’s
December-2009
Ports-to-Plains Alliance Formed
The U.S. Department of Transportation awarded a $55 million federal grant to advance the expansion of U.S. Highway 85 as part of the Theodore Roosevelt Expressway in western North Dakota. The funding supports widening more than 13 miles of US 85 in McKenzie County, improving safety, increasing capacity, and strengthening a nationally significant freight corridor serving agriculture, energy development, and interstate commerce while advancing the route toward future interstate standards.
September-2009
Heartland Expressway Association Founded
The Heartland Expressway Association was incorporated in 2009.
August-2007
Theodore Roosevelt Expressway Association is incorporated as a 501(c)(6)
To develop, preserve, enhance, expand, improve, and market the Theodore Roosevelt Expressway, a planned four-lane divided highway that will facilitate the efficient and effective transportation of goods and people along the federally designated Theodore Roosevelt Expressway.
August-2005
Theodore Roosevelt Expressway High Priority Corridor #58 on the National Highway System Designated
SAFETEA-LU formally recognized the Theodore Roosevelt Expressway, which runs from Rapid City, South Dakota, north through Montana to the Canadian border, as a high-priority corridor.
March-2001
Ports-to-Plains Trade Corridor Coalition Receives 501(c)(6)
The Ports-to-Plains Trade Corridor Coalition is established to advocate for a high-capacity north–south transportation corridor linking Mexico, the U.S. Heartland, and Canada.
January-2000
Ports-to-Plains Trade Corridor Coalition Incorportated as a Texas Non-Profit
Created for the purpose of developing, preserving, enhancing, expanding and improving the Ports-to-Plains Trade Corridor, a planned four-lane divided highway utilizing I-27 that will facilitate the efficient and effective transportation of goods and people from Mexico through West Texas onto Denver, Colorado.
1990’s
June-1998
Ports-to-Plains High Priority Corridor #38 on the National Highway System Designated
Congress designates the Ports-to-Plains Corridor as High Priority Corridor 38, formally recognizing its national freight and trade significance.
December-1991
Heartland Expressway High Priority Corridor #14 on the National Highway System Designated
The lntermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA) identified the Heartland Expressway from Denver through Scottsbluff to Rapid City as a High Priority Corridor on the National Highway System
1980’s
March-1988
Statewide Expressway Mandated in Nebraska
Construction of a statewide Expressway System in Nebraska mandated under LB 632 and LB 1041 to connect urban centers to the Interstate.
February– 2026
H.R. 7148, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026 Delivers $19.24 Million for Ports-to-Plains Alliance Projects
The H.R. 7148, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026, signed on February 3, 2026, delivers $19.24 million in federal funding to advance critical planning, safety, and infrastructure projects across the Ports-to-Plains Alliance corridor, strengthening regional connectivity, freight mobility, and progress toward Future Interstate development.
july – 2025
I-27 Feasibility Study from Amarillo to Dumas Study Published
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the feasibility, costs and logistics related to updating the corridor to interstate standards, including extending I-27 from SL 335 to north of Dumas along US 287.
May-2025
Minatare – US-385 Final Environmental Assessment Published
The Final Environmental Assessment evaluates the proposed improvements to transform the existing two-lane sections of US Highway 26 and Nebraska Link 62A between Minatare and the US 385 junction into a four-lane divided expressway using a “2+2” widening strategy.
May-2025
North Dakota Senate Bill 2012 Approves Funding for U.S. 85
$100 million (one-time) from the Strategic Investment and Improvements Fund (SIIF) – This appropriation was expressly designated in SB 2012 for a US 85 project from reference point 120.3 north to the Long X Bridge. Also authorizes the Department of Transportation to access bonding authority or other revenue sources up to $155 million for construction on US 85 during the 2025-27 biennium.
April-2025
The official celebration for designation of a 4.2-mile segment of U.S. Highway 87 as part of Interstate 27
This event marked the first segment of I-27 to be officially designated since the corridor was federally recognized as a Future Interstate through Texas and New Mexico. The newly designated section extends from South Loop 289 in Lubbock to 0.1 mile north of County Road 7500 and was already constructed to interstate standards.
March-2024
I-27 Numbering Act of 2023 Becomes Law
Federal leaders delivered $29.165 million in total appropriations to advance critical Future Interstate and corridor improvements across Texas, New Mexico, and Nebraska. Ronny Jackson secured funding for US 287 interstate design from Amarillo to Dumas and State Loop 335 widening in Amarillo. Jodey Arrington advanced interstate planning on U.S. 87 from Lubbock to Tahoka, while August Pfluger secured operational improvements on US 277 in San Angelo. Additional Senate-supported investments included Ports-to-Plains interstate planning in New Mexico, championed by Martin Heinrich and Ben Ray Luján, and major Heartland Expressway improvements in Nebraska secured by Deb Fischer.
March-2024
FY 24 Congressionally Directed Spending and Community Funding Project Approved
Federal leaders delivered $29.165 million in total appropriations to advance critical Future Interstate and corridor improvements across Texas, New Mexico, and Nebraska. Ronny Jackson secured funding for US 287 interstate design from Amarillo to Dumas and State Loop 335 widening in Amarillo. Jodey Arrington advanced interstate planning on U.S. 87 from Lubbock to Tahoka, while August Pfluger secured operational improvements on US 277 in San Angelo. Additional Senate-supported investments included Ports-to-Plains interstate planning in New Mexico, championed by Martin Heinrich and Ben Ray Luján, and major Heartland Expressway improvements in Nebraska secured by Deb Fischer.
January-2024
I-27 System in Texas Implementation Plan
TThe I-27 System in Texas report outlines a comprehensive plan to expand Interstate 27 by identifying Future Interstate Segments (FIS) and required city location studies, creating a connected West and South Texas Interstate network that improves safety, freight mobility, regional connectivity, and long-term economic growth.
December-2023
USDOT Awards $55 Million Grant for U.S. 85 Theodore Roosevelt Expressway Expansion Project
The U.S. Department of Transportation awarded a $55 million federal grant to advance the expansion of U.S. Highway 85 as part of the Theodore Roosevelt Expressway in western North Dakota. The funding supports widening more than 13 miles of US 85 in McKenzie County, improving safety, increasing capacity, and strengthening a nationally significant freight corridor serving agriculture, energy development, and interstate commerce while advancing the route toward future interstate standards.
March-2022
Future Interstate Designation Secured for Texas and New Mexico
Congress designates the Texas and New Mexico portions of the corridor as a Future Interstate in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023—the Alliance’s most significant policy victory to date.
October-2021
I-27 Advisory Committee, established by S.B. 1474, holds first meeting in Texas
I-27 Advisory Committee, established by S.B. 1474, holds first meeting in Texas.
June-2021
Creations of I-27 Advisory Committee: S.B. 1474 Becomes Law
The I-27 Advisory Committee is established to provide TxDOT with information on concerns and interests along the Ports-to-Plains Corridor; and advise the department on transportation improvements impacting the Ports-to-Plains Corridor.
June-2021
Ports-to-Plains Corridor Economic Impact Study (New Mexico)
The study was prepared for the Eastern Plains Council of Governments and the New Mexico Department of Transportation to analyze the economic effects of the Ports-to-Plains Corridor in New Mexico, including impacts on regional commerce, freight mobility, employment, and economic development opportunities associated with future Interstate upgrades. It evaluates how improved corridor connectivity supports economic growth across northeast New Mexico and the broader region.
April-2021
North Dakota Legislature Approves $50 million for Theodore Roosevelt Expressway
TxDOT shall conduct a comprehensive study of the Ports-to-Plains Corridor. The study must evaluate the feasibility of, and the costs and logistical matters associated with, improvements that create a continuous flow, four-lane divided highway that meets interstate highway standards to the extent possible.
october – 2020
Ports-to-Plains Corridor Interstate Feasibility Study Published
Recommends a full upgrade of the Ports-to-Plains Corridor to an interstate including relief routes. In addition, the Advisory Committee recommends safety and operational improvements to address immediate needs in the Corridor. The Advisory Committee also outlines several policy recommendations to advance the implementation of the recommendations in this report.
July-2019
Nearly $8.3 Million INFRA Grant for Colorado Ports-to-Plains Project
U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) is awarding the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) a nearly $8.3 million Infrastructure For Rebuilding America (INFRA) grant for its US 287 project. The project seeks to add approximately 12 miles of passing lanes along US 287 in Southeastern Colorado known as the Ports-to-Plains Corridor.
June-2019
Ports-to-Plains Corridor Interstate Feaibility Study Established: HB 1079 Becomes Law
TxDOT shall conduct a comprehensive study of the Ports-to-Plains Corridor. The study must evaluate the feasibility of, and the costs and logistical matters associated with, improvements that create a continuous flow, four-lane divided highway that meets interstate highway standards to the extent possible
March-2019
US-85 Watford City to I-94 Evironmental Impact Statement Published
The Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) and Record of Decision (ROD) for the U.S. Highway 85 expansion from the I-94 interchange to the Watford City Bypass (EIS #20190026) were published on March 15, 2019, by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). This project aims to improve safety and capacity on this corridor, with key documentation detailing geological, environmental, and engineering impacts.
November-2014
Initial Assessment Report: Extension of I-27/Ports-to-Plains Corridor Published
The Ports-to-Plains Alliance first initiated discussion about the potential of an extension of Interstate 27 along the Ports-to-Plains Corridor in 2014. The Initial Assessment Report, assessed the Ports-to-Plains Corridor in Texas for 1) existing conditions; 2) potential upgrade options; 3) a summary of public outreach and reaction; and, 4) potential next steps for TxDOT to consider toward further planning, public outreach and corridor development, using four segments.
October-2014
Heartland Expressway Corridor Development and Management Plan Published
The Heartland Expressway Corridor Development and Management Plan (CDMP) establishes a coordinated, multi-state framework to guide planning, prioritization, and delivery of the Heartland Expressway. The plan identifies corridor limits and standards, assesses existing conditions and gaps, prioritizes projects, and outlines phasing, funding strategies, and interagency coordination needed to advance the corridor toward full expressway/Interstate-ready performance—improving safety, freight mobility, regional connectivity, and long-term economic development across participating states.
November-2013
US Highway 85 McKenzie County Road 16 to Junction US Highway 2 Environmental Assessment Published
The Environmental Assessment (EA) for U.S. Highway 85 from McKenzie County Road 16 to the junction with U.S. Highway 2 evaluates proposed roadway improvements aimed at enhancing safety, capacity, and freight mobility along one of western North Dakota’s most critical transportation corridors. This segment serves significant agricultural, energy, and commercial traffic, including heavy truck volumes associated with regional oil and gas development. The EA examines potential environmental impacts to land use, wetlands, wildlife habitat, cultural resources, and community access, while identifying mitigation measures to minimize effects. The study supports advancing the corridor toward future interstate standards, improving regional connectivity, and ensuring long-term economic competitiveness for McKenzie County and the surrounding region.
May-2011
Build Nebraska Act Passed by Nebraska Legislature
The Build Nebraska Act is a landmark transportation funding law enacted by the Nebraska Legislature in 2011 (LB 84) to provide a dedicated, long-term revenue stream for major highway construction projects across the state. The Act redirected a portion of existing state sales tax revenue to the Nebraska Department of Transportation, specifically for capital highway improvements rather than routine maintenance.
December-2009
Ports-to-Plains Alliance Formed
The U.S. Department of Transportation awarded a $55 million federal grant to advance the expansion of U.S. Highway 85 as part of the Theodore Roosevelt Expressway in western North Dakota. The funding supports widening more than 13 miles of US 85 in McKenzie County, improving safety, increasing capacity, and strengthening a nationally significant freight corridor serving agriculture, energy development, and interstate commerce while advancing the route toward future interstate standards.
September-2009
Heartland Expressway Association Founded
The Heartland Expressway Association was incorporated in 2009.
August-2007
Theodore Roosevelt Expressway Association is incorporated as a 501(c)(6)
To develop, preserve, enhance, expand, improve, and market the Theodore Roosevelt Expressway, a planned four-lane divided highway that will facilitate the efficient and effective transportation of goods and people along the federally designated Theodore Roosevelt Expressway.
August-2005
Theodore Roosevelt Expressway High Priority Corridor #58 on the National Highway System Designated
SAFETEA-LU formally recognized the Theodore Roosevelt Expressway, which runs from Rapid City, South Dakota, north through Montana to the Canadian border, as a high-priority corridor.
March-2001
Ports-to-Plains Trade Corridor Coalition Receives 501(c)(6)
The Ports-to-Plains Trade Corridor Coalition is established to advocate for a high-capacity north–south transportation corridor linking Mexico, the U.S. Heartland, and Canada.
January-2000
Ports-to-Plains Trade Corridor Coalition Incorportated as a Texas Non-Profit
Created for the purpose of developing, preserving, enhancing, expanding and improving the Ports-to-Plains Trade Corridor, a planned four-lane divided highway utilizing I-27 that will facilitate the efficient and effective transportation of goods and people from Mexico through West Texas onto Denver, Colorado.
June-1998
Ports-to-Plains High Priority Corridor #38 on the National Highway System Designated
Congress designates the Ports-to-Plains Corridor as High Priority Corridor 38, formally recognizing its national freight and trade significance.
December-1991
Heartland Expressway High Priority Corridor #14 on the National Highway System Designated
The lntermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA) identified the Heartland Expressway from Denver through Scottsbluff to Rapid City as a High Priority Corridor on the National Highway System
March-1988
Statewide Expressway Mandated in Nebraska
Construction of a statewide Expressway System in Nebraska mandated under LB 632 and LB 1041 to connect urban centers to the Interstate.
Supporting Our Work
To ensure effective advocacy and project delivery, the Alliance relies on strong leadership, strategic governance, and robust regional, national and international partnerships.
Our Leadership
Meet the dedicated Board of Directors and Staff who guide the Alliance’s mission, oversee operations, and lead our advocacy efforts across nine states.
Our Partners
Learn about the 200+ communities, businesses, and organizations — including the Heartland Expressway and Theodore Roosevelt Expressway — that form the backbone of our coalition and advocacy network.
Your Voice Builds the Future
The success of the Ports-to-Plains Corridor depends on the commitment of its members. Join us in advocating for this vital infrastructure project that supports national security, energy independence, and the prosperity of the American Heartland.
Membership in the Ports-to-Plains Alliance delivers measurable value. Members strengthen a unified advocacy effort advancing four-lane and Interstate upgrades that improve safety, reduce travel time, and lower transportation costs for businesses across the corridor. Through coordinated action, members gain a stronger voice on shared policy issues, direct engagement with federal lawmakers through the annual Washington, DC Fly-In, and access to industry leaders at the Alliance’s annual conference. Additional benefits include increased visibility through social media, timely policy updates, and ongoing advocacy that supports economic growth, energy independence, and long-term prosperity throughout America’s Heartland.