| Shields: |
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Caption: | Texas Loop Highway 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 (RE 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 |
State highway loops in Texas are owned and maintained by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). These loops serve various purposes, including circumventing city centers, providing access to outlying areas, and connecting major highways. Each loop is designated by a specific number and marked with distinct signage featuring the loop number within a white rectangle on a green background.
The concept of state loops in Texas dates back to the early 20th century as a means to facilitate local traffic flow around cities and towns. The Texas Highway Department, now TxDOT, began designating these loops to improve traffic management and reduce congestion in urban areas. Over time, the system expanded to include loops that serve both urban and rural areas, enhancing connectivity across the state.
State loops can vary significantly in their design and function. Some loops are short, serving as bypasses around small towns, while others are longer, encircling larger cities. These roads are generally designed to handle a mix of local and through traffic, providing a balance between accessibility and mobility. The construction and design standards of state loops ensure they can accommodate a range of vehicle types, from passenger cars to heavy trucks.