The Texas Transportation Commission in the US has approved about $2bn for highway improvements across the state to enhance safety and reduce congestion.

The state has included 74 projects in the funding, which includes $1bn to expand Interstate 35 from a four- to a six-lane highway.

Other major projects include a $178m reconstruction of Interstate 610/US 290 Interchange, a $100m expansion of Interstate 45 in Houston, a $130m expansion of San Antonio’s Wurzbach Parkway and an $80m expansion of Loop 375 in El Paso.

The projects will be funded by Proposition 12 bond proceeds, which were authorised by the Texas Legislature earlier this year, according to the state transport department.