TxDOT PUBLICATIONS OFFER WEALTH OF INFORMATION FOR PLANNING GETAWAYS DURING TEXAS TRAVEL AND TOURISM WEEK
Must-see destinations, event information, listings cover the Lone Star State         Share This
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May 7, 2018

AUSTIN – Sometimes you just need to get away, and with summer fast approaching, there is no better time to start planning your Texas adventure than Travel and Tourism Week, May 6-12.
The U.S. Travel Association’s National Travel and Tourism Week and Texas Travel and Tourism Week highlight the value of travel on a personal level and its importance to communities visited. For years, studies have touted the benefits of travel, and a U.S. Travel Association study conducted in 2017 showed that scheduling vacation time improves happiness, boosts morale and reduces stress.  
The Texas State Travel Guide, Texas Official Travel Map and Texas Highways Events Calendar – produced by the Texas Department of Transportation – will help travelers determine where to go during their time off. These publications are available on site at the 12 Texas Travel Information Centers across the state. For mail delivery, order online at www.texashighways.com/2018Travel or call (800) 452-9292.
“These free publications are some of the best tools available for exploring the state,” said Joan Henderson, Travel Information Division Director for the Texas Department of Transportation. “If you’re looking for something to do, our publications will inspire you. If you already have a destination in mind, they help maximize your experience by showing you what else there is to do along the way.”
The 264-page Travel Guide offers travel features on history, arts and culture, music, food, shopping, sports, family activities and the outdoors, plus information on more than 450 cities and 3,000 attractions. Because the state is so large, the city and attraction listings are separated into regions with an introduction highlighting some of the must-see places.
The Events Calendar features hundreds of events occurring across the state each quarter: Summer (June-August), Fall (September-November), Winter (December-February) and Spring (March-May). It includes everything from festivals and fairs to rodeos, food events, music, art and museum exhibits, performances and market days.
For media inquiries, contact TxDOT Media Relations at Kathi.White@txdot.gov or (903) 510-9267.

April 20, 2018

TYLER – Here's a look at work planned in the district during the Week of April 23, 2018. Schedules are subject to change due to weather conditions, equipment failure or other unforeseen issues. Slow down and pay attention when traveling through work zones.

Anderson County – Palestine Maintenance, assisted by the Special Jobs Crew, plans to continue mill and inlay operations on SH 19 in Montalba, and then move to US 287N between SH 19 and FM 321. Expect lane closures with flaggers and a pilot car providing traffic control.

Anderson County construction projects updates:

US 79 New Lane Construction Project

• Limits: From 1.6 miles southwest of Loop 256 in Palestine south to the Trinity River
• Contractor: Longview Bridge and Road, Ltd., of Longview
• Cost: $42.7 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Summer 2018

The contractor continues to conduct closeout activities throughout the project limits. Expect lane closures. The project is expanding a 5.3-mile section of US 79 from two lanes to a four-lane divided highway with a continuous left-turn lane and a depressed median.

SH 19 Widening Project

• Limits: From 3.6 miles N of FM 837 (Henderson Co. line) south to .4 mile N of FM 321 at Montalba
• Contractor: Big Creek Construction of Hewitt
• Cost: $12.5 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Summer 2018

Operations to place the final seal coat and surface are scheduled for May when warmer conditions are conducive. Meanwhile, the contractor continues daily operations that include maintaining signage, pavement markings, and performing other miscellaneous work. Expect occasional lane closures with flaggers and pilot vehicles. The project is widening the roadway with the addition of shoulders and passing lanes. The posted speed limit is 55 mph.

US 79 at UPRR Overpass Project

• Limits: 1.5 miles east of FM 2574 to 0.5 miles past UPRR Overpass

• Contractor: Drewery Construction Company, Inc., of Nacogdoches
• Cost: $1.6 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: September 2018

Level-up hot mix asphalt operations are set to begin Monday, April 23. Work is underway to upgrade the bridge with the contractor cleaning and painting the girders under the bridge. Motorists should expect daily lane closures with one-way traffic in both directions for the duration of the project. This project consists of cleaning and painting steel girders, bridge rail replacement, and a concrete overlay of the existing bridge deck.

Cherokee County – Jacksonville and Rusk Maintenance crews plan to perform an overlay operation on FM 2750. Expect lane closures with flaggers providing traffic control.

Cherokee County construction projects updates:

US 69 Widening through Wells

• Limits: From 2 miles north of FM 1247 in Wells, south to 0.9 miles south of FM 1247
• Contractor: Longview Bridge and Road, Ltd., of Longview
• Cost: $17.6 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: December 2018

Work continues on the west side of the roadway. The project is widening US 69 through Wells from two lanes to four lanes with new curb and gutter and a two-way left turn lane through town. There are minimal impacts on traffic. The speed limit has been reduced on the northern end of the project until work is completed.

FM 22 Safety Treatment Project

• Limits: From 1.5 MI W of FM 768, E to SH 110
• Contractor: Highway 19 Construction
• Cost: $1 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Spring 2018

Cleanup activities continue as the project nears completion.

Gregg County – Longview Maintenance plans to return to its mill and inlay operations on SH 31 between I-20 and FM 2205. Expect lane closures with flaggers providing traffic control at crossovers and intersections.

Gregg County construction projects updates:

Loop 281 Overlay

• Limits: From SH 300 east to the Gregg County line
• Contractor: East Texas Bridge
• Cost: $1.5 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: May 2018

This project consists of milling and overlaying various sections with hot mix asphalt. There will be nightly alternating lane closures at various locations. Expect delays and consider alternate routes.

US 80 Widening in Gladewater

• Limits: Loop 485 to Locker Plant Road.
• Contractor: Longview Bridge and Road
• Cost: $3.54 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Spring 2018

The contractor is conducting Phase II construction work with the roadway reduced to one lane of travel for both westbound and eastbound traffic. Work continues on storm sewer, curb and gutter, and flex-base on the north side of the roadway. The project consists of widening US 80 to four through lanes with a left turn lane from Loop 485 to Locker Plant Road.

Loop 281 at FM 1845/Pine Tree Road

• Limits: From US 80 to Shofner Drive
• Contractor: Longview Bridge and Road, Ltd., of Longview
• Cost: $4.54 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Summer 2018

The contractor continues work on storm sewer, flex-base, and cement-treating base material. Traffic is reduced to one travel lane in all directions. Alternate routes are recommended on this project where work is being conducted in multiple phases that could require overnight lane closures. The project includes widening the roadway, installing storm drain, grading and base work, curb and gutter, raised medians, surface, signs and pavement markings.

SH 149 at Sabine River

• Limits: From SH 322 to approximately one half-mile north of the Sabine River Bridge

• Contractor: Gibson and Associates
• Cost: $3.1 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Summer 2018

Expect nighttime lane closures for the week from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. Traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction until further notice for night and daytime work. Expect significant delays during this period. Alternate routes are suggested. The project consists of constructing new rails and sidewalk on the bridge, increasing its load carrying capacity, and installing new guardrail on I-20.

Henderson County – Athens Maintenance plans to perform base repairs on FM 316. Crews will also be cleaning ditches and patching potholes on various roadways on the east of the county. Expect lane closures with flaggers providing traffic control.  

Henderson County construction projects updates:

Striping Operations (New Project)

• Limits: SH 334 from Cedar Creek Reservoir Bridge to east of SH 198; SH 198 from Kaufman County Line to south of Cedar Creek Reservoir Bridge - cement sections only

• Contractor: Striping Technology, LP
• Cost: $153.363.00
• Anticipated Completion Date: May 2018

The contractor is removing and replacing the thermo-striping at these locations in the Gun Barrel City area. The work includes water blast removal of the old thermos-striping, buttons and short line (stop bars, yield bars, arrows, wordage, etc.). Once the old striping is removed, the roadways will be restriped with paint first, then with thermo-stripe. The installation of new buttons and short line will follow. Signage notifying motorists of this project have been installed along the project limits and various other locations. Expect lane closures and brief delays as this project progresses. 

SH 19 Widening Project

• Limits: FM 1615 South to 0.3 miles south of Coon Creek
• Contractor: A.L. Helmcamp
• Cost: $ 4.95 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Spring 2019

Level-up hot mix operations are scheduled in various areas of the project. Daily lane closures are possible with a pilot vehicle providing traffic control. The contractor is cement treating sub-grade, setting driveway pipes, extending cross structures, and conducting dirt work to build the shoulders. The speed limit has been reduced to 60 mph for the duration of the project which consists of adding 10-foot shoulders on both the northbound and southbound travel lanes. 

US 175 Widening Project (Phase I)

• Limits: From 0.1 mile SE of FM 804 near Baxter SE to 1.1 miles E of Loop 60E at Larue
• Contractor: A.L. Helmcamp, Inc. and Big Creek Construction
• Cost: $39.2 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: November 2018

Construction to realign Loop 60 at the intersection of US 175 in Larue continues. Expect short delays with construction equipment at work in the vicinity. Work is ongoing on the new westbound mainlanes from CR 4720 to CR 4719 in Larue. Caution advised as trucks enter and exit the work area throughout the day to deliver materials. Construction of new culverts continues along the old roadway (proposed westbound lanes) between Baxter and Larue. The speed limit is 55 mph on this project to expand US 175 from two lanes to a four-lane divided highway with a depressed median.

US 175 Widening Project (Phase II)

• Limits: From 1.1 miles E of Loop 60B at Larue to 0.85 mile E of FM 315 at Poynor
• Contractor: Sundt Construction, Inc., of San Antonio
• Cost: $37.8 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Spring 2018

Eastbound traffic remains in the inside lane as the contractor finishes ditch and slope repairs. Cleanup is ongoing on the south side of the roadway. Both eastbound travel lanes will open to traffic when work is finished.

The easternmost access to FM 315 and Downtown Poynor is closed as construction continues. Motorists must use the westernmost access for FM 315 and Poynor. Work continues on rock riprap for ditches on both the north and south sides of the roadway.

This Phase II project is expanding US 175 from two lanes to a four-lane divided with a depressed median. The project limits stretch 4.7 miles ending just east of FM 315 in Poynor. The speed limit has been set at 60 mph. A portion of this phase is being built on new location around the south side of Poynor. This is a mobility project to add capacity and improve safety and includes adding one lane in each direction.

US 175 Widening Project (Phase III) in Anderson County

• Limits: From 0.85 mile E of FM 315 in Poynor SE to .5 mile NW of SH 155 at Frankston
• Contractor: A.L. Helmcamp, Inc.
• Cost: $27.6 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: October 2019

The contractor is grading the north end of the project from CR 301 to Cemetery Road as well as ensuring positive drainage for the project. Storm-water control measures are also being maintained throughout the project limits. The project is expanding US 175 from two lanes to a four-lane divided highway with a depressed median.  

Rusk County – Henderson Maintenance plans to conduct edge maintenance on FM 850 from SH 42 to FM 2012. Expect lane closures with flaggers and a pilot vehicle conducting traffic control.

Smith County – Tyler Maintenance plans to finish up overlay operations on FM 1252 east of FM 757 by Tuesday and then move to FM 16 east of the SH 155 intersection for one mile. A second crew will be performing ditch maintenance on roadways throughout the county. Expect lane closures with flaggers providing traffic control at all work locations.  

Smith County construction projects updates:

Legacy Trails – Hike and Bike Trail Development

• Limits: West Trail: Three Lakes Pkwy to FM 2813; East Trail: Three Lake Pkwy to Cumberland Rd
• Contractor: Reynolds & Kay LTD.
• Cost: $4.6 Million
• Anticipated Completion Date:  Spring 2019

The contractor continues sidewalk construction on the West Trail, which runs from Three Lakes Parkway to FM 2813. Sidewalk construction also continues along the Oncor easement between Dueling Oaks and Cumberland Rd. No lane closures are planned. This project consists of constructing 4.4 miles of hike and bike trails in Southwest Tyler. It includes the construction of parking lots, driveways, landscaping, pedestrian ramps, crosswalks and drainage structures along the 10-foot wide hike and bike trails.

FM 849 Bridge Replacement Project

• Limits: FM 849 at I-20
• Contractor: Longview Bridge & Road, Ltd., of Longview
• Cost: $4.6 Million
• Anticipated Completion Date:  Spring 2018

The contractor is set to install permanent pavement markings on the roadway. Cleanup will continue. This is an emergency bridge replacement project consisting of removing the existing steel and concrete structure and replacing it with a new 4-span reinforced concrete structure. Work also includes the widening of the bridge approaches and improvements to the I-20 ramps.

FM 850 Bridge Replacement Project

• Limits: FM 850 at Mud Creek just east of FM 21
• Contractor: Stateline Construction
• Cost: $1.1 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Summer 2018

The contractor will be installing Metal Beam Guard Fence, mow strips, and concrete riprap. The road is closed at Mud Creek with traffic detoured for this project to replace the old bridge with a wider one.

US 271 Mill and Inlay Project

• Limits: From 0.4 miles south of Spur 147 at Oakwood St., south to SH 64/Fifth St. in Tyler
• Contractor: Clark Construction of Texas, Inc. from San Antonio
• Cost: $2.1 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Spring 2018

Starting Sunday, expect lane closures to be in place from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. as the contractor completes project wrap-up activities. The project consists of base repairs, planing, applying a hot mix surface and striping. No lane closures planned.

Spur 248 Widening Project

• Limits: From 1.75 miles west of FM 848/Old Omen Road going east to SH 64 southeast of Tyler
• Contractor: Lonestar Equipment Company, Inc.
• Cost: $8.6 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Summer 2018

Embankment, subgrade, drainage and retaining wall work is ongoing on the north side of the roadway. No lane closures are planned. The speed limit is 55 mph during construction to widen Spur 248 from two lanes to a four-lane divided roadway with a flush median.

I-20 Resurfacing Project

• Limits: From US 69 to FM 14 WB only
• Contractor: Clark Construction
• Cost: $2.9 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Spring 2018

The contractor has implemented cleanup operations. No lane closures are expected on this project that is placing a new Porous Friction Course (PFC) surface in the westbound lanes and upgrading the MBGF along this stretch of I-20.

Turn Lanes Project

• Limits: Various locations throughout Tyler
• Contractor: Lonestar Equipment Company, Inc.
• Cost: $2.4 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Summer 2018

Work continues at Grande Blvd. and Old Jacksonville Highway. Expect lane closures from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on SH 57/Grande for work to construct the Right-Turn Lane. Work is also ongoing on Broadway Avenue and South Town Drive. No lane closures are planned. The project is removing the existing medians to extend the turn lanes and adding right turn lanes to various intersections in Tyler. Work locations include US 69, Cumberland Road, Independence, South Donnybrook, Rice, South Town and wrap up at Grande and FM 2493.

Van Zandt County – Canton Maintenance plans to continue overlay operations on the I-20 Service Roads between Mile Markers 533 and 536. A second crew will be doing base repairs on FM 1651. Expect lane closures with flaggers providing traffic control.

Van Zandt County construction projects updates:

I-20 Westbound Exit Ramp at FM 314 Relocation Project

• Limits: From FM 314 WB Exit Ramp and Frontage Road
• Contractor: Longview Bridge and Road, Ltd., of Longview
• Cost: $4.6 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Summer 2018

The westbound outside lane and the FM 314 Exit Ramp will be closed Monday and Tuesday, April 23 and 24, for work to remove concrete barrier, milling, seal coat, and paving operations on the new ramp. Phase III continues with work to install the I-20 Exit Ramp. Use alternate routes to avoid delays. WB Frontage Road is open at CR 4930. The project consists of reconstructing the frontage road and building a new exit ramp 1.13 miles east of FM 314.

I-20 Safety Work

• Limits: From Kaufman County Line going east to SH 19, etc.
• Contractor: FNH Construction, LLC
• Cost: $2.4 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Fall 2018

Work continues to remove and install Metal Beam Guard Fence and concrete mow strip along the westbound, inside and outside lanes, going west from Jim Hogg Road to the Van Zandt/Kaufman county lines. Expect daily lane closures and delays.

SH 243 Widening Project

• Limits: From SH 198 east to SH 64 in Canton
• Contractor: Longview Bridge and Road
• Cost: $6.2 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: June 2018

Structure and road widening work is ongoing on the north side of the road. Expect delays with a pilot vehicle and flaggers controlling traffic. The project is widening the roadway from two to four lanes with a flush median, curb and gutter, and storm drain.

FM 1652 Rehab Project

• Limits: FM 17 south of Grand Saline, southward to FM 1255 northwest of Oakland
• Contractor: Highway 19 Construction, LLC
• Cost: $4.48 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Fall 2018

The contractor is performing roadway rehabilitation and widening on a two-mile section on the south end of the roadway. Driveway and cross structure work is ongoing on this rehab project that is widening the existing roadway and includes structure work. Expect lane closures with flaggers providing traffic control.

FM 1653 Rehab Project

• Limits: SH 64 near Ben Wheeler, southwest to FM 858 at Martin Mills
• Contractor: Drewery Construction Company, Inc., of Nacogdoches
• Cost: $3.97 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Fall 2018

The contractor is conducting work on cross structures. Expect lane closures and delays with flaggers providing traffic control. The project is rehabilitating and widening the existing roadway.

County Road 1825 Bridge Replacement Project

• Limits: CR 1825 at UPRR .01 miles S of US 80 to SW of Grand Saline
• Contractor: Longview Bridge and Road, Ltd.
• Cost: $1.5 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Fall 2018

Work continues to install the retaining wall on this project to replace the railroad overpass and approaches. There is minimal impact on traffic. The roadway is closed at this location. Wood County – Mineola Maintenance plans to continue ditch maintenance on Loop 564, and edge work on FM 1647. Expect lane closures at both locations with flaggers providing traffic control.  

Wood County construction projects updates:

SH 182, etc., Safety Treating Project

• Limits: Various Roads - Current work on FM 2869 from FM 2088 south 8.12 miles to FM 49

• Contractor: Highway 19 Construction, LLC.
• Cost: $1.2 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Spring 2018 for FM 2869; Late Summer 2018 for all work

Structure and driveway work are underway on SH 182. Expect single lane closures with flaggers providing traffic control. Minor delays can be expected. Work continues on the cross structures on FM 49 with minor delays possible. Final cleanup will be completed on FM 2869. No delays are expected for traffic.

I-20 Total Maintenance Contract                                                  

• Limits: Gregg, Smith and Van Zandt counties
• Contractor: Firemen Excavation

Routine maintenance activities are ongoing on I-20 with moving operations throughout the week:

• Debris Removal: Monday from the inside lane through all three counties
• Debris Removal: Tuesday from the outside lane through all three counties
• Guardrail Repairs: Tuesday and Wednesday through all three counties
• Sign Maintenance: Wednesday and Thursday in all three counties

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I-20 CLOSURE FOR WORK ON FM 849 BRIDGE

Construction of new bridge continues 

January 11,2018

TYLER – Construction of a new overpass at FM 849 over I-20, at Hideaway, is well underway with the contractor preparing to set bridge beams next week. The work will necessitate nighttime closures of I-20 with traffic moved to the ramps.

According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), the work will be conducted in the eastbound lanes one evening, and the westbound the next to allow the contractor to set the new bridge beams. Motorists are urged to take alternate routes to avoid delays during this work.

Weather permitting, the contractor, Longview Bridge and Road, Ltd, of Longview, will shut down eastbound I-20 at FM 849 from 7 p.m., Tuesday, January 16, to 6 a.m., Wednesday, January 17. Traffic will be diverted from I-20 onto the ramp. Westbound I-20 at FM 849 will be closed and traffic moved to the ramp from 7 p.m., Wednesday, January 17, to 6 a.m., Thursday, January 18. Local law enforcement will be stationed along the project.

Following the beam installations, the contractor will continue bridge deck work, earthwork and various other activities. Daily lane closures will be utilized on the inside lanes each direction for bridge work in the median of I-20.

This is an emergency bridge replacement project implemented after the bridge was hit in November by an oversized load causing major structural damage in November. The $4.6 million project originally planned for several years down the road, is expected to be completed in mid-April. It includes building a 4-span reinforced concrete bridge and road work to connect to the new overpass approach slabs.

Motorists can expect periodic lane closures throughout the duration of the project. Remember to slow down and pay attention when traveling through this and all work zones. Look for message boards and other traffic control devices in place to provide additional advanced warning of the project.

For more information, contact Kathi White at Kathi.White@txdot.gov or 903.510.9267.

December 21, 2017

TYLER – Here's a look at work planned in the district during the weeks of Dec. 25, 2017, and Jan. 1, 2018.  These schedules are subject to change due to weather conditions, equipment failure or other unforeseen issues. Slow down and pay attention when traveling through work zones.

This work has been postponed several times due to weather or other issues but Anderson County Road 300 traffic is now scheduled to be detoured starting Tuesday, December 26, for work on the US 175 Phase III project from Poynor to Frankston. The US 175 mainlanes will remain open. CR 300 traffic will be detoured for approximately three days to allow construction crews to work on tying the intersection of CR 300 into the newly constructed US 175 westbound lanes. The daytime detour will direct traffic intending to turn north on CR 300 to use CR 303 instead. This detour will not directly impact the travel lanes on US 175. Signage and flaggers will be used to direct traffic being detoured to CR 303. The detour is 1.2 miles long and may increase drivers’ trips by about three minutes. We appreciate your patience and support during this work. The project is located in Anderson County but is grouped with the US 175 projects in the Henderson County section of this release.

Anderson County – Palestine Maintenance rounds out the year with continued work on FM 19 between Frankston and Neches. A second crew will be conducting sign upgrade operations on US 84 between Palestine and the Cherokee County line. Expect lane closures with flaggers providing traffic control.

Anderson County construction projects updates:

US 79 New Lane Construction Project

• Limits: From 1.6 miles southwest of Loop 256 in Palestine south to the Trinity River
• Contractor: Longview Bridge and Road, Ltd., of Longview
• Cost: $42.7 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Spring 2018

The contractor continues the installation of permanent signage and removal of the detour hot mix at the southbound entrance and exit ramps for FM 645. Work is also underway to address closeout activities throughout the project limits. Expect lane closures. The project is expanding a 5.3-mile section of US 79 from two lanes to a four-lane divided highway with a continuous left turn lane and a depressed median.

SH 19 Widening Project

• Limits: From 3.6 miles N of FM 837 (Henderson Co. line) south to .4 mile N of FM 321 at Montalba
• Contractor: Big Creek Construction of Hewitt
• Cost: $12.5 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Spring 2018

Hot mix operations continue on driveways on the northbound side of the roadway. Motorists should use caution and watch for turning truck traffic entering and exiting the roadway in the northbound lanes. Expect multiple lane closures and delays with flaggers and a pilot vehicle providing traffic control. The project is widening the roadway with the addition of shoulders and passing lanes. The posted speed limit is 55 mph.

Off-System Bridge Replacement Project

• Limits: County Road 458 at Beaver Creek and County Road 2418 at Otter Creek
• Contractor: Longview Bridge and Road Ltd., of Longview
• Anticipated Completion Date: January 2018

The contractor is conducting work on the bridge rail and dirt work at the abutments on this bridge replacement project. County Road 2418 is closed at Otter Creek.

Cherokee County – Jacksonville and Rusk maintenance crews finish up 2017 with edge repairs on FM 2274. Expect lane closures with flaggers providing traffic control at both locations. 

Cherokee County construction projects updates:

US 69 Widening through Wells

• Limits: From 2 miles north of FM 1247 in Wells, south to 0.9 miles south of FM 1247
• Contractor: Longview Bridge and Road, Ltd., of Longview
• Cost: $17.6 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: December 2018

The contractor is conducting dirt work and milling operations on the west side of the roadway. The project is widening US 69 through Wells from two lanes to four lanes with new curb and gutter and a two-way left turn lane through town. There are minimal impacts on traffic. The speed limit has been reduced on the northern end of the project until work is completed.

FM 22 Safety Treatment Project

• Limits: From 1.5 MI W of FM 768, E to SH 110
• Contractor: Highway 19 Construction
• Cost: $1 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: January 2018

The contractor is conducting cleanup and working on punch list items as this project nears completion.

Gregg County – Longview Maintenance is ending the year by implementing mobile patching operations on roadways around the county. This will be a moving operation utilizing truck mounted traffic control devices. Caution advised!

Gregg County construction projects updates:

US 80 Widening in Gladewater

• Limits: Loop 485 to Locker Plant Road.
• Contractor: Longview Bridge and Road
• Cost: $3.54 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Spring 2018

Work continues on storm sewer on the south side of the roadway with eastbound traffic reduced to one lane. Motorists can expect delays. Work includes earthwork, base and surface work, storm sewer, concrete curb and gutter, safety improvements, and upgrading signage and pavement markings. The project consists of widening US 80 to four through lanes with a left turn lane from Loop 485 to Locker Plant Road.  

Loop 281 at FM 1845/Pine Tree Road

• Limits: From US 80 to Shofner Drive
• Contractor: Longview Bridge and Road, Ltd., of Longview
• Cost: $4.54 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Summer 2018

Storm sewer work is ongoing as is the processing of flex base and cement-treating base material. Traffic is reduced to one travel lane in all directions. Alternate routes are recommended on this project where work is being conducted in multiple phases that could require overnight lane closures. The project includes widening the roadway, installing storm drain, grading and base work, curb and gutter, raised medians, surface, signs and pavement markings.

FM 2275 George Richey Extension (Segment I)

• Limits: From McCann Road west to SH 300 (Gilmer Road)
• Contractor: East Texas Bridge, Inc.
• Cost: $12.4 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: January 2018

The contractor continues to work on punch list items. The project consists of constructing two bridges and a four-lane roadway with center left-turn lanes from McCann Road to SH 300/Gilmer Road. It also includes applying a hot mix asphalt surface, curb and gutter as well as sidewalk.

SH 149 at Sabine River

•       Limits: From SH 322 to approximately one half-mile north of the Sabine River Bridge

•      Contractor: Gibson and Associates

•      Cost: $3.1 million

•      Anticipated Completion Date: Early Summer 2018

Work is scheduled to resume in March on this project that consists of constructing new guardrail and sidewalk on the bridge and increasing its load carrying capacity.

Henderson County – Athens Maintenance finishes 2017 by continuing base repair work on SH 198 and SH 334. Expect lane closures with flaggers providing traffic control. A second crew will be performing edge repairs on various roadways on the eastside of the county. This will be a moving operation utilizing truck mounted traffic control devices. Caution advised!

Henderson County construction projects updates:

SH 19 Widening Project

• Limits: FM 1615 South to 0.3 miles south of Coon Creek
• Contractor: A.L. Helmcamp
• Cost: $ 4.95 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Spring 2019

Work is ongoing to set driveway pipes and extend cross structures on this job. Daily lane closures are possible with a pilot vehicle providing traffic control. The speed limit has been reduced to 60 mph for the duration of the project which consists of adding 10-foot shoulders on both the northbound and southbound travel lanes. 

US 175 Widening Project (Phase I)

• Limits: From 0.1 mile SE of FM 804 near Baxter SE to 1.1 miles E of Loop 60E at Larue
• Contractor: A.L. Helmcamp, Inc. and Big Creek Construction
• Cost: $39.2 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: November 2018

Road construction continues for portions of the new westbound lanes as does culvert widening work throughout the project. Crews will also be hauling materials for the new westbound roadway in Baxter and culvert widening locations between Baxter and Larue. Motorists should remain alert as construction equipment enters and exits the roadway throughout the workday. The speed limit is 55 mph on this project to expand US 175 from two lanes to a four-lane divided highway with a depressed median.

US 175 Widening Project (Phase II)

• Limits: From 1.1 miles E of Loop 60B at Larue to 0.85 mile E of FM 315 at Poynor
• Contractor: Sundt Construction, Inc., of San Antonio
• Cost: $37.8 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: January 2018

The traffic switch to move westbound traffic to its new lanes is postponed until early January, weather permitting. After the traffic switch, work will begin on the eastbound lanes with the inside lane closed to allow the contractor to place a final seal coat and conduct paving operations. The same work will be conducted on the eastbound outside lane before opening the roadway to traffic.

• The week of December 25, the contractor will be working on shouldering up, and possibly striping, the future westbound travel lanes, seeding and performing SW3P cleanup throughout the project. Lane closures are possible for FM 315S between Wednesday-Friday, December 27-29, for maintenance.

• The week of January 1, hot mix operations continue for driveways and county roads on the north side of the project to finish paving operations for the traffic switch. Temporary lane closures can be expected on the westernmost access for FM 315 and Poynor during paving operations. The contractor will continue shouldering up the future westbound lanes, cleanup, seeding and finalizing striping in preparation for the traffic switch. Work will also continue on FM 315S under the new bridges. Expect daily closures.

The easternmost access to FM 315 and Downtown Poynor remains closed while permanent construction of the roadway continues. Motorists must use the westernmost access for FM 315 and Poynor. This Phase II project is expanding US 175 from two lanes to a four-lane divided with a depressed median. Drivers should anticipate two-way traffic throughout the project limits which stretch 4.7 miles ending just east of FM 315 in Poynor. The speed limit has been set at 55 mph. A portion of this phase is being built on new location around the south side of Poynor. This, like Phase I, is a mobility project to add capacity and improve safety and includes adding one lane in each direction.

US 175 Widening Project (Phase III) in Anderson County

• Limits: From 0.85 mile E of FM 315 in Poynor SE to .5 mile NW of SH 155 at Frankston
• Contractor: A.L. Helmcamp, Inc.
• Cost: $27.6 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: August 2019

The CR 300 traffic detour to CR 303 has been moved to December 26. Motorists should be prepared for this change that could last about three days during work to tie-in CR 300 to the new WB lanes of US 175. Storm-water control measures are being maintained throughout the project limits as earthwork and flex-base operations continue from CR 301 to Cemetery Road. The project will expand US 175 from two lanes to a four-lane divided highway with a depressed median.  

Rusk County – Henderson Maintenance rounds out 2017 by conducting base repairs on FM 2276 from FM 1249 to the Gregg County line. Expect the roadway to be reduced to one lane carrying two-way traffic with flaggers and a pilot car providing traffic control.

Smith County – Tyler Maintenance ends 2017 with base repair work on the Loop 323 Extension and edge repairs on FM 756 south of FM 346. Expect lane closures with flaggers conducting traffic control at both locations.

Smith County construction projects updates:

Legacy Trails – Hike and Bike Trail Development (New Project)

• Limits: West Trail: Three Lakes Pkwy to FM 2813; East Trail: Three Lake Pkwy to Cumberland Rd
• Contractor: Reynolds & Kay LTD.
• Cost: $4.6 Million
• Anticipated Completion Date:  Spring 2019

Beginning January 2, the contractor plans to install erosion controls and begin preparing right-of-way for trail construction. No lane closures are expected. This project consists of constructing 4.4 miles of hike and bike trails in Southwest Tyler. The project includes the construction of parking lots, driveways, landscaping, pedestrian ramps, crosswalks and drainage structures along the 10-foot wide hike and bike trails.

FM 849 Bridge Replacement Project (New Project)

• Limits: FM 849 at I-20
• Contractor: Longview Bridge & Road, Ltd., of Longview
• Cost: $4.6 Million
• Anticipated Completion Date:  Spring 2018

The contractor continues bridge substructure work, including drilled shafts, column, and cap work. Earthwork on the north and south sides of I-20 is ongoing. Daily lane closures on the inside lanes of east- and west-bound may be utilized for bridge work in the median of I-20. No lane closures are planned for December 22-27.

This is an emergency bridge replacement project consisting of removing the existing steel and concrete structure and replacing it with a new 4-span reinforced concrete structure. Work will also include the widening of the bridge approaches and improvements to the I-20 ramps.

FM 850 Bridge Replacement Project

• Limits: FM 850 at Mud Creek just east of FM 21
• Contractor: Stateline Construction
• Cost: $1.1 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Summer 2018

The contractor is continuing bridge substructure work. The road is closed at Mud Creek with traffic detoured. The project will replace the existing bridge with a wider one. 

US 271 Mill and Inlay Project

• Limits: From 0.4 miles south of Spur 147 at Oakwood St., south to SH 64/Fifth St. in Tyler
• Contractor: Clark Construction of Texas, Inc. from San Antonio
• Cost: $2.1 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Winter 2017

With paving work complete, the contractor will be performing clean up and striping operations. The project consists of base repairs, planing, applying a hot mix surface and striping. Lane closures are possible.

SH 64E Resurfacing Project (Notice of Project Completion)

• Limits: From Loop 323 to 1.7 miles southeast of Spur 248

•      Contractor: Madden Contracting Company, LLC

•      Cost: $3.6 million

•      Anticipated Completion Date: Fall 2017

Work has been completed on this project to make repairs to the curb and gutter across from Brookshire’s on SH 64 just east of Loop 323 and place a new surface from the loop to Chapel Hill.

SH 31E Widening Project

• Limits: From FM 757 to FM 2012
• Contractor: Reynolds & Kay, LTD
• Cost: $7.8 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: January 2018

Cleanup activities are ongoing. Expect lane closures with flaggers providing traffic control. The speed limit during work hours is 60 mph.

SH 31E Overlay Project (Notice of Project Completion)

• Limits: From Loop 323 to FM 850
• Contractor: Reynolds & Kay, LTD
• Cost: $1.8 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Fall 2017

Work has been completed on this project to apply a Porous Friction Course (PFC) surface to the roadway. 

Spur 248 Widening Project

• Limits: From 1.75 miles west of FM 848/Old Omen Road going east to SH 64 southeast of Tyler
• Contractor: Lonestar Equipment Company, Inc.
• Cost: $8.6 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Summer 2018

Embankment, subgrade and drainage work continue on the north side of the roadway. Expect lane closures with flaggers providing traffic control. The speed limit is 55 mph during construction to widen Spur 248 from two lanes to a four-lane divided roadway with a flush median.

I-20 Resurfacing Project

• Limits: From US 69 to FM 14 WB only
• Contractor: Clark Construction
• Cost: $2.9 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: January 2018

The contractor continues placing bridge joints, striping, and milled rumble strips. The project is placing a new Porous Friction Course (PFC) surface in the westbound lanes and upgrading the MBGF along this stretch of I-20.

Turn Lanes Project

• Limits: Various locations throughout Tyler
• Contractor: Lonestar Equipment Company, Inc.
• Cost: $2.4 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Summer 2018

Work resumes January 2 at the intersection of South Broadway Ave. and South Town Drive. Expect daily right lane closures as work is conducted on the Right Turn Lane at South Town Drive. This project is removing the existing medians to extend the turn lanes and adding right turn lanes to various intersections in Tyler. Work locations include US 69, Cumberland Road, Independence, South Donnybrook, Rice, South Town and wrap up at Grande and FM 2493.

Van Zandt County – Canton Maintenance completes 2017 by conducting edge repairs on SH 198 and performing ditch work on roads around the county. Expect lane closures with flaggers providing traffic control.

Van Zandt County construction projects updates:

I-20 Westbound Exit Ramp at FM 314 Relocation Project

• Limits: From FM 314 WB Exit Ramp and Frontage Road
• Contractor: Longview Bridge and Road, Ltd., of Longview
• Cost: $4.6 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Summer 2018

Phase III work continues with the contractor installing concrete pavement on the frontage road east of the I-20 Exit Ramp. The WB Frontage Road is closed at CR 4930. To avoid delays, motorists are encouraged to use alternate routes. The project consists of reconstructing the frontage road and building a new exit ramp 1.13 miles east of FM 314.

I-20 Safety Work

• Limits: From Kaufman County Line going east to SH 19, etc.
• Contractor: FNH Construction, LLC
• Cost: $2.4 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Fall 2018

No work will be conducted on this project during the next two weeks. When work resumes, the contractor will continue removing and installing Metal Beam Guard Fence and concrete mow strip along the eastbound outside lane going east from the Van Zandt County line to Jim Hogg Road.

SH 243 Widening Project

• Limits: From SH 198 east to SH 64 in Canton
• Contractor: Longview Bridge and Road
• Cost: $6.2 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: June 2018

Structure and roadway widening work continues on the north side of the road. Motorists can expect delays with a pilot vehicle and flaggers controlling traffic. This project is widening the roadway from two to four lanes with a flush median, curb and gutter, and storm drain.

FM 314 Widening Project

• Limits: From I-20 to the Van Zandt/Henderson County line
• Contractor: A.L. Helmcamp, Inc., of Buffalo
• Cost: $11.9 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Summer 2018

Work continues to install hot mix asphalt concrete driveways and intersections on the section five miles south of I-20. Expect closures and delays with a pilot vehicle and flaggers controlling traffic.

FM 1256 Widening Project

• Limits: From FM 316 eastward to SH 19
• Contractor: Longview Bridge and Road, Ltd., of Longview
• Cost: $5.8 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Fall 2018

No work is scheduled for this project to widen the roadway.

FM 1861 Project

• Limits: From SH 19 to FM 2339
• Contractor: A.L. Helmcamp, of Buffalo, TX
• Cost: $2.44 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Fall 2018

No work is scheduled for this project.

FM 1652 Rehab Project

• Limits: FM 17 south of Grand Saline, southward to FM 1255 northwest of Oakland
• Contractor: Highway 19 Construction, LLC
• Cost: $4.48 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Fall 2018

No work is planned on this project that is rehabilitating the road and consists of widening the existing roadway and structure work.

FM 1653 Rehab Project

• Limits: SH 64 near Ben Wheeler, southwest to FM 858 at Martin Mills
• Contractor: Drewery Construction Company, Inc., of Nacogdoches
• Cost: $3.97 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Fall 2018

The contractor is conducting work on cross structures. Expect lane closures and delays with flaggers providing traffic control. The project is rehabilitating the road and consists of widening the existing roadway and structure work.

County Road 1825 Bridge Replacement Project

• Limits: CR 1825 at UPRR .01 miles S of US 80 to SW of Grand Saline
• Contractor: Longview Bridge and Road, Ltd.
• Cost: $1.5 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: Fall 2018

The contractor is installing drilled shafts on this project to replace the railroad overpass and approaches. There will be minimal impact on traffic. The roadway is closed at this location.

Wood County – Mineola Maintenance finishes out 2017 with crews maintaining ditches on SH 154 and FM 17. Expect lane closures at each location with flaggers providing traffic control.  

Wood County construction projects updates:

SH 182, etc., Safety Treating Project

• Limits: Various Roads - Current work on FM 2869 from FM 2088 south 8.12 miles to FM 49
• Contractor: Highway 19 Construction, LLC.
• Cost: $1.2 million
• Anticipated Completion Date: July 2017 for FM 2869; February 2018 for all work

No work will be conducted on this project during the next two weeks.

I-20 Total Maintenance Contract                                                  

•          Limits: Gregg, Smith and Van Zandt counties

•          Contractor: Firemen Excavation

Routine maintenance activities are ongoing on I-20 with moving operations throughout the week:

-           Debris Removal: Thursday from the inside lane through all three counties

-           Debris Removal: Friday from the outside lane through all three counties

November 14, 2017
TYLER – The Texas Department of Transportation has closed the FM 849 Bridge at I-20 in Hideaway after the westbound bridge was hit this morning by an oversized load carrying a tank vessel. Bridge engineers are traveling to the area to evaluate the structural damage to the FM 849 Bridge. I-20 has returned to normal traffic flow.
“Bridge experts from Austin are coming in today to evaluate and assist the district in assessing the damage and developing plans for future repair or potential replacement,” said Kathi White, TxDOT Public Information Officer. “FM 849 will remain closed until the structural evaluation and any necessary repairs are complete to ensure the safety of the traveling public.”
I-20 eastbound was reduced to one lane for several hours after the incident because the vessel landed in the eastbound inside lane after being knocked off the truck. The concrete barrier dividing the eastbound and westbound lanes as well as some westbound pavement was also damaged. The vessel was removed from the scene around 1 p.m.
TxDOT had previously completed construction plans to replace the structure in anticipation of future funding opportunities. Having the plans complete will greatly expedite the repair or replacement as determined by the analysis.
Road conditions and traffic updates available on Facebook.com/txdot or Twitter/TxDOTTyler.
For more information contact Kathi.White@txdot.gov or call (903) 510-9267.
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