Why Texas Has More Frontage Roads Than Your Ex Has Excuses
Let's talk about Texas. Big hair, bigger hats, and even bigger roads – with tiny roads running parallel to them. You know what I'm talking about: frontage roads. These are like the sidekicks to the highway superheroes, always there to pick up the slack and save the day (or at least get you to Whataburger).
The Birth of a Roadside Revolution
So, why did Texas become the frontage road champion? Well, it all started with a man named DeWitt Greer. Imagine him as the Don Corleone of road construction, except instead of offering horses' heads, he offered frontage roads. In the 1940s, Greer was the state's highway engineer, and he had a brilliant (or crazy, depending on who you ask) idea: let's build roads alongside the main highways to give people access to their properties.
This was a stroke of genius. Instead of buying up expensive land to give people access to the new highways, Texas could simply build a little buddy road and call it a day. It was like finding a loophole in the real estate game, but for roads.
Frontage Roads: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Frontage roads are like those friends who are always there for you, but sometimes they can be a real pain. On the plus side, they keep traffic flowing smoothly on the main highway, and they provide access to businesses and homes. They're also great for practicing your driving skills without risking life and limb.
On the downside, they can be confusing as hell, especially for visitors. With all those merge lanes and U-turns, it's like trying to solve a Rubik's cube while driving. And let's not forget about the joy of merging onto a highway from a frontage road that's going the opposite direction. It's like trying to convince a cat to take a bath.
The Future of Frontage Roads
So, what does the future hold for these beloved (or despised) roadways? Well, as Texas continues to grow, so too will the need for more roads. But with advancements in technology, we might see some changes. Self-driving cars could navigate the complexities of frontage roads with ease, and maybe even eliminate the need for them altogether. Or maybe we'll just end up with even more confusing road layouts. Only time will tell.
Until then, let's appreciate the frontage road for what it is: a quirky Texas tradition that adds a touch of chaos to our daily lives. And hey, at least we're not stuck in traffic on the highway.
How to Navigate Texas Frontage Roads
- How to avoid getting lost: Use GPS, pay attention to signs, and don’t be afraid to ask for directions.
- How to merge onto the highway: Signal, accelerate, and pray.
- How to exit the highway: Signal, slow down, and prepare for the inevitable merge lane battle.
- How to find good Tex-Mex: Follow your nose. Or just look for a crowded parking lot.
- How to survive a Texas summer: Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and embrace the AC.
