Transportation Impacts of Fracking in the Eagle Ford Shale Development in Rural South Texas: Perceptions of Local Government Officials

摘要

This paper explores the impacts on transportation infrastructure and transportation-related issues associated with the gas and oil boom in the Eagle Ford Shale region in rural south Texas. It begins with a general explanation of fracking and its general impacts along with specifics of the Eagle Ford Shale region. Drawing on data gathered both from crash trends and two surveys administered to public officials in the Eagle Ford Shale region, we present a description of the impacts of fracking on cities and counties. Crash trends between 2009-2013 overall show a 26 percent increase. Fatalities and severe injuries also increased by 49 percent. The survey results show that counties and cities are experiencing significant challenges in meeting increased demands placed on their transportation system by fracking including increased traffic and congestion, deteriorating roads, and increased cost of maintenance. Keywords: fracking, transportation policy, energy resources, rural traffic, oil