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Northeast Texas Regional Mobility Authority

The Northeast Texas Regional Mobility Authority (NETRMA) was created in October 2004 for Gregg and Smith Counties. The initial project was Loop 49 in 183A in Gregg and Smith Counties.

The NET-RMA was the fifth Regional Mobility Authority authorized by the Texas Transportation Commission. The first RMA authorized was the Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority.

On June 23, 2004, Smith and Gregg Counties filed a petition for authorization to form an RMA. The petition identified the continuation and the completion of Loop 49 in Smith County as a four-lane divided highway, including an eastern corridor to extend into Gregg County as their initial project.

On September 7 and 8 and on October 7, 2004, TxDOT conducted public hearings to receive public comments on the proposed RMA formation.

TxDOT reported that at the public hearing several individuals spoke in favor of the creation of the RMA. TxDOT also reported that several individuals submitted written comments, most in favor and one opposing the development of toll roads. Resolutions supporting the RMA were received from commissioners courts of Smith and Gregg Counties and a joint resolution of support from the cities of Tyler and Longview.

The initial board of directors was seven members; six directors appointed by Gregg and Smith County commissioners courts, and the chair appointed by the governor.

At the time Governor Perry announced the appointment of Jeff Austin III of Tyler as chair of the NETRMA, he also announced that the NETRMA was in the process of expanding to include Cherokee, Harrison, Rusk and Upshur counties.