HB 1241 mandates the Texas Department of Transportation to install telecommunications conduit at specified intervals during new highway construction or reconstruction projects. In unincorporated areas, conduits must be installed every mile, while in incorporated areas, the interval is reduced to 500 feet. The bill also requires that access points to these conduits be provided for telecommunications providers. Additionally, the department must offer joint trenching opportunities for broadband providers, focusing on improving connectivity in underserved and rural communities. Annual reports on the program’s impact and cost are to be submitted to the legislature​.