According to the link TX took $ 3.2 Billion in federal transportation funds in 2010 and is projected to get the same this year. But, I also wanted to comment, whatever your view of Federal taxes, the same principles should apply to State taxes. So, whether it's Washington or Austin taxing you, the principles are the same.
http://www.lbb.state.tx.us/Federal_Funds/Watch_2011/Federal Funds - 041911.pdf
Your forgetting that businesses will use improved highways and transportation to move their goods to customers. This can result in decreased transportation costs and higher profit for business. That would be one example of a ROI on government spending.
A government worker still buys and spends and has an impact on economy. Think of any business in a military town. Sure, the salary paid to the member is a cost. But, all the restaurants, car dealerships, grocery stores, etc., reap income from the spending of these public sector employees.