Caption: | Texas Farm to Market Road and Ranch to Market Road markers |
Interstate: | Interstate X (I-X) Interstate Highway X (IH-X) |
Us: | U.S. Highway X (US X) |
Statehwy: | State Highway X (SH X) |
Label1: | Loops: |
Field1: | Loop X |
Label2: | Spurs: |
Field2: | Spur X |
Label3: | Recreational: |
Field3: | Recreational Road X (R X) |
Label4: | Farm or Ranch to Market Roads: |
Field4: | Farm to Market Road X (FM X) Ranch to Market Road X (RM X) |
Label5: | Park Roads: |
Field5: | Park Road X (PR X) |
Links: | TX |
Farm to Market Roads in Texas are owned and maintained by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). FM roads are a network of state-maintained roads that provide access to rural and agricultural areas. They are an integral part of the state's infrastructure, connecting small towns and farming communities to larger highways, facilitating the transport of agricultural products to market, hence their name. These roads are vital for the local economy, supporting both agricultural and non-agricultural traffic in rural regions.
The Texas Farm to Market Road system was established in 1949 by TxDOT to improve rural access and support the agricultural economy. The initiative aimed to provide better roads for farmers to transport their goods to market, enhancing economic opportunities and rural development. Initially, the program focused on gravel and dirt roads, but over time, many FM roads have been upgraded to paved surfaces.
Texas Farm to Market Roads are crucial for the state's agricultural sector, allowing for the efficient transport of crops, livestock, and other goods. They also support rural residents by providing access to schools, healthcare, and other essential services. Additionally, FM roads contribute to the state's tourism by offering scenic routes through the Texas countryside.
Separate-but-equal designation; not officially a Farm to Market or Ranch to Market Road