Paris District Road Report for January 12, 2026
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in Fannin, Grayson, Hopkins, Franklin, Delta, Lamar, Red River, Hunt and Rains Counties for the week starting January 12, 2026. These schedules are subject to change due to weather conditions, equipment failure or other unforeseen issues. Motorists are advised to remain alert and pay special attention to all signs, barricades, and traffic controls, and reduce their speed as they approach and travel through work zones. They should also avoid distractions such as cell phones, eating, drinking, or car audio or navigation systems.
Safety Message: Flash Floods
Flash flooding is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in Texas. If you encounter a flooded road, “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
- Never walk, swim, or drive through still or moving flood waters. The water may be hiding dangers such as debris, tree branches, power lines, or damage to the road. As little as six inches of fast-moving water can cause motorists to lose control of their vehicle, even a pickup truck or SUV.
- Stay informed about weather conditions when you are driving.
- Be especially careful driving at night when it can be harder to see flood dangers.
- If your vehicle stalls in deep water, leave it and move to higher ground if you can do so safely.
Here’s the law
- Never drive around barriers blocking low water crossings or flooded roadways. Penalties include a fine of up to $2,000 and/or up to 180 days in jail.
- Tampering with roadway warning signs or barriers is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, up to two years in jail, or both.
Sherman Area (Fannin, Grayson Counties)
Contacts: Sherman Area Office (903) 892-6529; Grayson Co. Maintenance (903) 893-8831; Fannin Co. Maintenance (903) 583-7566.
Grayson County:
US 75, from the Collin County Line to FM 902. This project will widen the US 75 mainlanes from the Collin County Line to FM 902 to six lanes. The project will also reconstruct the bridge at County Line Road and construct new u-turn bridges in Van Alstyne near Simmons Loop and in Howe south of Hall Cemetery Road. This project will convert the frontage roads from two-way operation to one-way operation. Two lanes on the US 75 main lanes will remain open in each direction during the daytime hours with occasional lane closures during the nighttime period. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads during construction. A reduced speed limit of 65 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project.
The frontage roads in Van Alstyne were converted to one-way traffic on Wednesday, June 11th. This one-way conversion happened on both the east and west sides of US 75 from FM 121 to Blythe/Farmington Road. After the pavement work is complete, both lanes of the frontage roads will be opened to traffic. There will be a section of frontage road near Northridge Road and Simmons Loop that will be reduced to one lane in order to construct the new u-turn bridge over US 75.
The frontage roads in Van Alstyne on both the east and west sides of US 75 from County Line Road (CR 375/Panther Parkway) to FM 121 are one-way roads. The pavement work is completed, and both lanes of the frontage roads are open to traffic. There will be occasional lane closures to install work zone striping & other remaining works. The section of frontage road on the east side of US 75 between Kelly Lane and County Line Road will remain as two-way traffic in order to allow traffic on Kelly Lane to travel to County Line Road.
US 75 frontage roads in Howe were converted to one-way traffic on October 23. This one-way conversion happened on both the east and west sides of US 75 from Blythe Rd to Hanning St. Lane closures will be in place during the conversion in order to complete pavement repairs and to overlay the roadway with a new surface. After the pavement work is completed, both lanes of the frontage roads will be opened to traffic.
Various entrance/exit ramps to & from US 75 will be closed at the following locations, dates, and times
- US 75 southbound entrance from Haning Street to be closed each day for few hours on Jan. 14 and Jan. 15 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
- US 75 northbound exit to Haning Street (Exit 53) to be closed each day for few hours from Jan. 12 to Jan. 14 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
- US 75 southbound exit to Blythe Road to be closed each day for few hours from Jan. 12 to Jan. 14 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
- US 75 northbound entrance from Blythe Road to be closed each day for few hours from Jan. 12 to Jan. 14 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
These closures are needed to safely perform the boring activities on the project. Closing the ramps will mitigate the potential for frequent instances of traffic veering off their lane. It will also mitigate the potential for driver confusion. Message boards will be placed ahead of the ramps to alert drivers.
US 75, from SH 91 (Texoma Parkway) to US 82. This project will rebuild the US 75 mainlanes from SH 91 to US 82 as well as reconstruct the entrance and exit ramps on US 75. The project will also reconstruct bridges at Taylor Street, Lamberth Street and the US 75 main lanes over US 82 and reconstruct the frontage road intersection at SH 91. A reduced speed limit of 60 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project. Two lanes on the US 75 main lanes will remain open in each direction during the daytime hours with occasional further lane closures during the nighttime period. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads during construction.
The US 75 frontage road U-turn at the US 82 frontage road intersection travelling southbound to northbound is closed to traffic to allow crews to continue work on a portion of the new US 75 main lane bridge over US 82. During this closure, traffic is asked to go through the US 75 and US 82 frontage road intersection by making a series of left turns.
US 75 northbound exit ramp to Lamberth Rd. (Exit 63) will be closed from August 20 to January 31, 2026. This is a long-term closure, and drivers should use the adjacent exits.
Eastbound/Westbound Taylor St. will remain closed until April 2026.
US 75, from US 82 to North Loy Lake Road. This project will rebuild and widen the US 75 mainlanes from four lanes to six lanes as well as reconstruct the entrance and exit ramps on US 75. The project will also reconstruct bridges at FM 691, Iron Ore Creek and Spur 503, and add U-turn bridges at Loy Lake Road in Sherman and Spur 503 in Denison. A reduced speed limit of 65 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project. Watch for shoulder closures and lane shifts on the mainlanes of US 75 as well as frontage road lane closures within the project. Watch for nighttime lane closures on the northbound and southbound US 75 mainlanes, as crews work to construct the new pavement section.
Westbound Spur 503 is closed to traffic near US 75 as the connecting northbound and southbound frontage roads are being built at the new Spur 503 bridge. Westbound traffic will travel to the intersection of Spur 503 and the northbound frontage road and will go north on the new frontage road to access northbound US 75. Motorist wishing to go south will follow the northbound frontage road to Loy Lake Rd, and take the U-turn and continue south until the next available entrance ramp to southbound US 75.
The U-turn lanes for the US 75 frontage roads at FM 691 are closed to traffic to allow crews to work on constructing the middle portion of the new US 75 bridge over FM 691. During this closure traffic wishing to make a U-turn at the intersection is asked to turn left onto FM 691 and make another left at the next signal light.
The exit ramp from northbound US 75 to North Loy Lake Road in Denison is closed permanently. Travelers who wish to access North Loy Lake Road from northbound US 75 will detour up to Crawford Street, make a U-turn at the Crawford Street intersection, and head south on the frontage road to reach North Loy Lake Road.
US 75 northbound frontage road from FM 691 to Spur 503 to be fully closed from January 05 to March 18. This full closure is needed to reconstruct the frontage road.
US 75 northbound entrance ramp from Spur 503 to be fully closed from January 06 to 13. This full closure is needed to install high mast pole. Traffic traveling Spur 503 wanting to go north will go towards Loy Lake Rd, go straight, and take the next available ramp to enter US 75 northbound.
US 75, from FM 1417 to SH 91 (Texoma Parkway). A reduced speed limit of 60 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set on the mainlanes for this construction project. Watch for shoulder closures and occasional lane closures on the northbound and southbound US 75 main lanes between SH 91 and FM 1417 as crews work on completing the remaining work on this project. Watch for occasional lane closures on the frontage roads between FM 1417 and SH 91.
US 75 Overlay, from near FM 84 to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for lane closures on northbound and southbound US 75 as crews will be working from Sunday night through Friday morning during the overnight period. Occasional lane closures will be present at night for crews to overlay the roadway with hotmix. Lane closures will begin at 7:30 pm at night and should be reopened to traffic by 6 a.m.
SH 5, in Van Alstyne from Williams Way to Blassingame Avenue. Watch for daytime lane closures on SH 5 as crews work to install a shared use bicycle and pedestrian trail. The trail will follow along SH 5 from the existing trail at Williams Way to Blassingame Avenue, then along Tolson Avenue, then along Main Street where it will connect with Van Alstyne Parkway. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
US 82, from the SH 91 to the Fannin County Line. Watch for daytime lane closures on the US 82 eastbound and westbound main lanes as crews work to perform pavement repairs and then a pavement overlay on the surface. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours.
US 75 debris pickup, from Collin County line to Oklahoma State line. Watch for mobile lane closures as workers pick up debris from the roadway every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday during the nighttime.
US 377 in Tioga, from South of FM 922 to North of Mc Knight Rd. and from Hinton St. to Shawnee Dr. This project will widen US 377 on each side of the roadway to allow for the addition of a center left-turn lane. This project will also install traffic signals at the intersection of US 377 & FM 121 and at the intersection of US 377 & FM 922. Watch for shoulder closures and occasional daytime lane closures on the northbound and southbound US 377 main lanes as well as on FM 922. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
Southmayd Rd at Elba Creek, The bridge at Elba Creek was closed beginning June 25. The bridge replacement is completed and opened to traffic on December 03. Construction crews will continue working on the remaining minor items and motorists are requested to slow down as they drive through the work zone.
FM 697, from east of FM 2729 to US 69, This project will widen FM 697 on each side of the roadway to make the shoulders wider. The project will also safety treat fixed objects and add one course surface treatment on the full width of the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
Sister Grove Rd., Contractor closed the bridge on Sister Grove Rd at West Prong Sister Grove Creek to replace the existing bridge. The Contractor completed the bridge replacement work and opened it to traffic on October 31. The Contractor will continue working on the remaining minor items with occasional daily lane closures. Drivers are requested to slow down, watch for construction workers and obey construction signs as they travel through the work zone.
Prescott Rd, Southmayd. Contractor will be performing bridge replacement work on the Prescott Road bridge located between Johnny Watson Road and Jelley Road in Grayson County. The bridge on Prescott Road was closed in both directions on December 01. The bridge will remain closed until March 2026. Road closure signs will be installed on the roads leading to the project to inform drivers. Drivers can use Johnny Watson Road, Jelley Road and Southmayd Road as an alternate route.
SH 56 in Bells and in Sherman Lamar St. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform maintenance work. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Fannin County:
Bonham State Park, Park Road 24. Park Road 24 in the Bonham State Park will have daytime lane closures while crews rehabilitate the main road, camping spots and parking lots within the park. Detour routes will be present during construction to allow for the flow of traffic.
FM 68, at the North Sulphur River bridge. FM 68 at the North Sulphur River bridge replacement is completed and the bridge is open to traffic. However, construction crews will continue working on the remaining bridge structure and roadway final works. During this final stage, traffic is asked to watch for workers and equipment and drive slowly when going through the work zone.
FM 2645, from FM 898 to FM 1753. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect occasional delays as the contractor performs the final minor activities in the work zone.
FM 274, from SH 78 to FM 1753. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 121 overpass at US 69. The SH 121 overpass at US 69 opened to all traffic on 6/23/2025. Construction crews will continue working on minor items at this location. Motorists should expect delays as there will be daily lane closures through the construction zone.
SH 78 from FM 273 to Oklahoma State line: Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek. The onsite detour on CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek has been removed. The new bridge is competed and open to traffic. Traffic is asked to approach the bridge slowly and drive at an appropriate speed through the work zone while crews continue working on finishing the remaining bridge work.
CR 2865 at Sanders Creek Tributary. CR 2865 at Sanders Creek Tributary was closed to traffic on Monday, April 21 to allow for replacement of the bridge. The bridge at Sanders Creek Tributary is completed and opened to traffic. The bridge on CR 2825 at Sanders Creek was closed on June 21 & the Contractor demolished the bridge. The bridge is now completed and opened to traffic.
US 69 from FM 981 to FM 896 in the Leonard area. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform spot milling work. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Sulphur Springs Area (Hopkins, Franklin Counties):
Contacts: Sulphur Springs Area Office (903) 885-9514; Franklin Co. Maintenance (903) 537-4976; Hopkins Co. Maintenance (903) 885-4031.
Hopkins County: SH 19, from I-30 to Rains County Line. Crews will be performing surfacing operations. Watch for lane shifts within the work area. Expect slower moving traffic.
Franklin County: FM 21, from SH 37 to Titus County Line. Crews will be rehabbing the existing road. Watch for temporary traffic signals within the work area. Expect slower moving traffic.
Paris Area (Delta, Lamar, Red River Counties)
Contacts: Paris Area Office (903) 784-1357; Delta Co. Maintenance (903) 395-2139; Lamar Co. Maintenance (903) 785-4468; Red River Co. Maintenance (903) 427-3561.
Lamar County:
US 82 / Lamar Avenue, from 42nd street in Paris to Division Street in Blossom. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews perform pavement repairs and resurfacing.
BU 271 B, from 18th Street SE to 34th Street SE. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalk on the north and south sides of the roadway.
US 271, at the intersection of FM 2648 and at the intersection of FM 3298. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures as crews install roadway illumination within the right of way.
SH 19/24, Lamar & Delta Counties: from LP 286 intersection to SH 19. Watch for temporary lane closures and lane shifts while crews resurface the roadway, perform bridge rail upgrades, and bridge maintenance.
US 271, Lamar & Red River Counties: from FM 196 North to SH 37. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews remove tree and brush from within right of way.
US 82, Lamar & Red River Counties: from State Loop 286 in Paris to Bowie County Line in Red River County. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures.
1st ST SW & South Main St., Lamar County: from Hearne St. in Paris to Kaufman ST. in Paris. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install a bike lane and perform pavement and curb repairs.
FM 195, at Six Mile Creek. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews perform bridge maintenance.
Delta County:
SH 24, at Doctor’s Creek. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews perform bridge maintenance on the northbound structure.
SH 154, from SH 19 to BU 24. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures.
Red River County:
FM 2120, from FM 2573 to SH 37. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
Northeast Texas Trail, Clarksville, Texas. Watch for trucks and equipment entering and exiting streets and highways while crews construct the off-system trail.
Northeast Texas Trail, from BU 82J to Annona East City Limits. Watch for trucks and equipment entering and exiting streets and highways while crews construct the off-system trail.
Northeast Texas Trail, from Annona East City Limits to Bowie County Line. Watch for trucks and equipment entering and exiting streets and highways while crews construct the off-system trail.
BU 82 J, from FM 2825 to High Street (Clarksville). Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalk on the south sides of the roadway.
Greenville Area (Hunt, Rains Counties)
Contacts: Greenville Area Office (903) 455-2363; Hunt Co. Maintenance (903) 455-2303; Rains Co. Maintenance (903) 473-2682.
SH 34, From Traders Road to FM 1570. This project will construct a turning lane, consisting of culvert extensions, roadway widening, overlay, and striping. Work on this project is currently suspended due to utility conflicts. TxDOT is working with utility owners to relocate utilities. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 2642, from FM 35 to SH 66. The contractor has set work zone signs and barricades. The contractor is installing rebar on the south end of the project from I-30 to FM 35. Contractor is preparing the medians for concrete pour and drilled shafts are being installed along FM 35. Contractor is also performing maintenance on driveways. Buc-ee’s driveway on FM 2642 is now closed as the project prepare to enter the final construction phase. Buc-ee’s can be accessed from Shaw Rd. The intersection of FM 2642 and Shaw Road is temporarily a 4-Way Stop until the final phase of construction is complete. Look for traffic signs and limit distractions. Please slow down, be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 512, from SH 34 to FM 118. Barricades and traffic signs are in place. Contractor is performing cement treatment and flex blase. One-way flagger operations are currently set up through the work zone. Expect minor delays. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
SH 276, from FM 751 to CR 3609. The 2.6-mile rehabilitation project will add a center turn lane. The contractor has placed barricades and work zone traffic signs. Contractor is now back working after agreeing on a Change Order due to differing site conditions. Contractor is currently performing excavation and cement treated base on the shoulder. Work should start back after the New Year. Expect delays in the work zone. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 36, from US 380 to SH 66. The 6.11-mile project will rehabilitate roadway surface and add safety end treatments. Contractor is performing patch repairs. Contractor will be seal coating roadway depending on the weather. Flagger controlled traffic control is in place during construction operations. Expect slight delays and follow pilot vehicle. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Interchange Improvements, from Monte Stratton to FM 1903. Barricades and advance warning signs are in place. Contractor is performing earthwork at FM 1570, FM 1903, and Monty Stratton. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Improvements, from CR2511 to FM 36. Temp wall work is ongoing. Contractor is working on overpass at CR 2511. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
Hunt and Rains Counties:
Hunt County and Rains maintenance crews will be performing pothole and sign repair work, and mailboxes throughout Hunt and Rains County.
Hunt County maintenance crew will be performing overlay on FM 2655 from SH 11 to FM 512, and on FM 2358 from SH 34 to End of Maintenance. Flaggers will be present at both locations. Crew will be performing bridge maintenance work in various locations. Maintenance contractors will be performing guardrail repair at various locations.
Rains County maintenance section will be performing roadway prep work on FM 1565. Right of Way vegetation management will be taking place in various locations. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
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TxDOT Salutes 40 Years of “Don’t Mess With Texas®”
January 9, 2026 – Texas superstar Post Malone lends his voice in milestone year
PARIS – As football fans watched inside the Cotton Bowl on Jan. 1, 1986, Stevie Ray Vaughan appeared on the screen in the first ad of the most iconic anti-litter campaigns: Don’t mess with Texas.
Now, four decades later, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is celebrating this 40-year milestone with the next generation of artistic talent, Post Malone, starring in the latest Don’t mess with Texas video.
Music superstar Post Malone grew up in Grapevine, Texas, and is a proud and outspoken Texan. He appears in new television and radio public service announcements that will pay tribute to the original launch spot with Stevie Ray Vaughan. The message is the same as it always has been: “Don’t mess with Texas means don’t litter.”
“As we mark the 40th anniversary, it’s wonderful to not only look back at the old commercials that helped spark this iconic message, but see how the newest generation is lending their voice to helping keep our state clean and beautiful,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said. “The Don’t mess with Texas campaign has been incredibly successful over the years, but it’s imperative we continue to remind people that Don’t mess with Texas means don’t litter.”
Launched in 1986, the campaign was created to address the increasing amount of litter along Texas highways by appealing to Texans’ pride and strong connection to the state. Over four decades, “Don’t mess with Texas” has become one of the most successful behavior-change campaigns in history.
A key component of the campaign’s longevity has been its collaboration with influential Texas voices from music, film and popular culture — names like Willie Nelson, George Strait, Eva Longoria, Matthew McConaughey, Joe Jonas, Ethan Hawke and others have helped extend the campaign’s reach and reinforce its message statewide.
As TxDOT celebrates this milestone, we continue our commitment to protecting Texas roadways and encourage everyone to do their part to keep Texas highways clean and beautiful for generations to come. The campaign includes annual “Trash-Off” community litter pick-up events and the Adopt-a-Highway volunteer program.For more information about the “Don’t mess with Texas” campaign and to view the latest PSAs, visit dontmesswithtexas.org.
Hopkins County Judge Newsom Enacts Burn Ban on Hopkins County January 9th
January 9, 2026 – ORDER PROHIBITING OUTDOOR BURNING
WHEREAS, Robert Newsom, Hopkins County Judge finds that conditions in the county’s
unincorporated areas pose a public safety hazard worsened by outdoor buming, and the Texas
Forest Service confirms drought conditions;
IT IS HEREBY ORDERED that outdoor burning is prohibited in the unincorporated areas of
Hopkins County from the order’s date, unless terminated earlier by the Texas Forest Service or
the Court. This order is issued under Local Government Code Section 352.081 and other relevant
laws.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that if welding and hot work are restricted, adequate fire
suppressant must be nearby, and combustible materials cleared within a set radius (e.g., 25 feet).
Outdoor cooking on grills is allowed in safe, clear, and supervised areas.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the order is effective immediately for seven (7) days’ subject
to extension or earlier termination, and shall be publicized and filed with the County Clerk.
Neighboring Hunt County Institutes Burn Ban
January 9, 2026 – Hopkins County has yet to issue a burn ban this fall, but our neighboring county to the west issued one today. Residents of Hunt County are now prohibited from outdoor burning.
Hunt County residents are asked to be particularly mindful of any equipment or outdoor work that may cause a spark or ignition source that could go unnoticed.
High winds can cause grassfires to spread very quickly and can cause firefighting to be difficult and dangerous, as well. Please help keep our county safe!
In Texas, local governments are empowered to take action on the behalf of those they serve. When drought conditions exist, a burn ban can be put in place by a county judge or county commissioners court prohibiting or restricting outdoor burning for public safety.
A burn ban means no outdoor burning is allowed, except in an enclosure that contains all flames and/or sparks. Non-commercial cooking, such as backyard cookouts and barbeques, are still allowed. Any outdoor welding and/or other “hot work” must be performed in accordance with fire code requirements.
As of this posting, there is no significant precipitation in the 7 day forecast.
Governor Abbott Announces $30,000 Reward For Information On Commissioner Betancourt Shooting
January 8, 2026 | Austin, Texas | Governor Greg Abbott today announced that the Office of the Governor’s Public Safety Office is offering a reward of up to $30,000 for information leading to the arrest of Reynaldo Mata-Rios. Eddy Betancourt was found deceased on December 27, 2025, and on the following day, the McAllen Police Department issued a warrant for Mata-Rios’ arrest for murder. Betancourt was the vice chairman of the Hidalgo County Appraisal District Board of Directors. He was appointed by Governor Abbott to serve on the Texas Facilities Commission.
Eddy Betancourt
Commissioner
The Texas Department of Public Safety has added the suspect to their 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List.
“Cecilia and I mourn the tragic loss of Commissioner Eddy Betancourt, and we pray for his family and loved ones,” said Governor Abbott. “The State of Texas remains in regular coordination with local law enforcement to provide all necessary resources to ensure those responsible face the consequences of their actions and the full weight of the law for this heinous crime. I encourage Texans with information relating to this crime to call the Texas Crime Stoppers hotline or submit an anonymous tip online. With the public’s help, we will capture those responsible and put them behind bars.”
The suspect, Reynaldo Mata-Rios, 60, is described as a Hispanic male, approximately 6 feet tall and weighs 195 pounds. He has brown eyes and brown hair. Mata-Rios was seen crossing the U.S. – Mexico border in a red truck on December 28, 2025. The suspect should be considered armed and dangerous.
To be eligible for the cash rewards, tipsters must provide information using one of the following methods:
- Call the Texas Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-252-TIPS (8477)
- Submit a web tip through the Texas 10 Most Wanted website
- Submit a tip online.
Callers’ anonymity is guaranteed by law regardless of how tips are submitted, and tipsters will be provided a tip number instead of using a name. Fugitives should be considered armed and dangerous. Texans should never try to apprehend a fugitive.
Sulphur Springs City Managers Report January 6, 2026
January 8, 2026 – During the regular meeting of the Sulphur Springs City Council on Tuesday January 6, 2026, City Manager Marc Maxwell submitted his monthly report.
TO: SULPHUR SPRINGS CITY COUNCIL
FROM: CITY MANAGER, MARC MAXWELL
SUBJ: MANAGER’S REPORT
CLAIMS – There were no workers’ compensation, liability, or property claims filed in December. A notice of lawsuit was received related to Ordinance No. 2884 regulating skill-based gaming devices. The matter has been forwarded to TMLIRP and city legal counsel.
Thermo 18″ Water Line (Capital Construction)
Crews installed 40 feet of 18-inch water main in December, bringing the total installed to 16,297 feet. Two tees and 40 feet of 12-inch line were installed east of the Thermo buildings for future use, along with one new fire hydrant. All installed water line was loaded and placed into service. Materials for the Thermo 21-inch sewer line are fully received and staged.
City Hall Site & Parking
City Hall parking-lot sidewalks are complete. Engineering staff continued civil-site design and underground utility tracing for the City Hall addition.
STREET IMPROVEMENT PLAN (SIP) & 2026 PLANNING –
Routine street maintenance continued while staff finalized planning work for the 2026 Street Improvement Program. The tentative street list has been prepared and coordinated with Water & Sewer and Streets. Contract extension paperwork has been executed, and IWorQ street-condition updates and shapefiles for new streets have been completed.
TENTATIVE 2026 SIP LIST
| 2026 SIP LIST | ||
| Street | Between | Length |
| Asphalt/Conc. Repair | various soft spot repairs | 1000 |
| Hodge | League to Barbara | 1130 |
| Colorado | Longino to Jackson | 401 |
| Fleming | Church to Rosemont | 428 |
| Putman | Carter to Como | 2360 |
| Mulberry | Park to Glover | 1299 |
| League | Connally to Houston + curve | 1316 |
| Moore | Main to Connally | 1193 |
| Gaines | Fuller to Putman | 422 |
| Raintree | Loop 301 to Loop 301 | 2978 |
| N. Lake Rd. and ramp | Peerless Hwy to ramp | 3200 |
| Towne | Hinnant to Robertson | 412 |
| Lemon | Bill Bradford-McGrede to Sprite | 1088 |
| Able and Ava | Putman to Fuller | 820 |
| Davis St. | South Davis from RR to Kyle | 2149 |
| Southland | Davidson to end | 898 |
| Simms | Freeman to end | 400 |
| Cranford | Austin to Hodge | 891 |
| Total Feet | 22385 | |
| Total Miles | 4.24 | |
Development Projects
Staff continued to support multiple development efforts, including final work at Stonewood Phase I, utility extensions for SSISD Elementary School #2, and ongoing water-main installation along Trinity Parkway. Engineering staff also advanced planning and utility coordination for future developments.
Departmental Activity
Public Works
• Repaired 139 potholes and cleaned storm drains twice.
• Repaired pavement following 12 water or sewer repairs and completed one major street repair on Como Street, including correction of a storm-drain failure that caused a sinkhole.
• Continued the citywide program to trim trees to maintain 14-foot roadway clearance.
• Replaced 200 feet of failed 36-inch storm drain between MLK and Fuller Streets and repaired bridge railing on Jackson Street.
• Repaired or replaced three stop signs and one “No Trucks” sign.
• Hauled street-sweeping spoils to the Maloy Landfill and coordinated milling and paving of the 7th Street railroad crossing.
• Mulched overgrown vegetation along Veterans Drive, Maxwell Street, Holiday Drive, and creek areas between MLK, Maxwell, and Beckham Streets.
Utilities — Water
• Repaired 12 city water-main breaks (1″–2; 6″–9; 8″–1).
• Replaced 14 three-quarter-inch meters and two 2-inch meters; no dead meters reported.
• Located over 1,800 feet of water mains and services for contractors and replaced three broken meter boxes.
Utilities — Sewer (City Lines Only)
• Responded to 16 city sewer calls.
• Repaired one 4-inch and two 6-inch city sewer lines.
• Washed over 83,000 feet of city sewer mains as part of the F.O.G. program.
• Located approximately 1,810 feet of sewer mains for contractor coordination.
Wastewater Treatment Plant
• Achieved a monthly average effluent TSS of 1.2 mg/L.
• Hauled 552 tons of sludge to the Maloy Landfill.
• Completed routine and preventative maintenance, including blower troubleshooting, chlorine-hoist inspection, electrical work, and clarifier and pump maintenance.
Community Development — Inspections & Permits
• Conducted 58 building inspections, 18 electrical inspections, 17 plumbing inspections, and 6 mechanical inspections.
• Issued 25 building permits and 62 trade permits.
• No Planning & Zoning or Zoning Board of Adjustment applications were received during the month.
Fire Department
• Responded to 185 total calls, including three structure fires, one vehicle fire, and six non-structure fires.
• Conducted 30 inspections, maintained 76 fire hydrants, and logged 178 hours of continuing education training.
• Responded to 15 fire alarms and provided mutual aid assistance on two county calls.
Police Department
• Recorded 1,752 total calls for service.
• Investigated 35 traffic accidents resulting in seven injuries and no fatalities.
• Issued 480 citations, recorded 56 offenses, and made 58 arrests during the month.
• Animal Control
• Responded to 125 complaint calls.
• Picked up 19 dogs and cats, accepted nine owner drop-offs, and handled four wild animals (two released).
• Released 13 animals to owners and facilitated 20 adoptions, resulting in an 89% adoption rate.
• Issued 11 citations, responded to one bite report, picked up three deceased animals, euthanized four animals, and ended the month with seven animals in the shelter.
Library
• Recorded 3,651 visitors, checked out 3,165 items, and logged 241 public computer sessions.
• Served 204 eBook users with 808 digital checkouts.
Parks & Recreation
Downtown/Plaza
• Completed routine maintenance, seasonal banner changes, irrigation repairs, and assisted with multiple community events.
Parks & Facilities
• Maintained Coleman Lake and Buford Park, cleaned the plaza fountain wet vault, striped the Imagination Mountain parking lot, and completed multiple irrigation and equipment maintenance tasks.
Grays Building & Senior Center
• Prepared the Grays Building for 17 rentals.
• Assisted with 124 senior activities, hosted a chili cook-off with 60 attendees, and a Christmas party with 85 attendees.
Airport & Tourism
• Recorded 1,710 aircraft operations (average 55 per day).
• Sold 3,496 gallons of AvGas and 10,050 gallons of Jet-A fuel.
• Tourism staff continued distributing visitor information and assisted with Christmas events and local organization support.
Next Hopkins County Genealogical Society Monthly Meeting to be Held January 15th
January 8, 2026 – We are starting out the new year with a bang by having our very own society president, John A. Sellers, as our speaker on Thursday, January 15, 2026. We will meet at 611 N. Davis at 7:00 p.m. or you may join us via Zoom that evening. (See the Zoom link below). You are encouraged to attend this meeting at no cost to you despite his “professional speaker” status. We promise you will enjoy it!
John is a multigenerational native of Sulphur Springs but ventured off during his college years to Texas Tech University in Lubbock, where he graduated with a bachelor’s in public relations and advertising. Following his time at Tech, John moved to the big city of Dallas to pursue a career in advertising at the Dallas Morning News, the Dallas Business Journal and General Telephone (now Verizon). He decided to return home to Sulphur Springs to attain a Texas teaching certificate so he could share his love for history with students. A few years later, back in his hometown, he was summoned to be a banker.
In his spare time, amidst his various responsibilities, he finds enjoyment in delving into family history research. He enjoys the opportunity to share his expertise through speaking engagements and seminars on genealogy, providing guidance on effective research methodologies. In his presentation, “Wood and Shingles; Brick and Mortar – Discovering the History of Your Home or Building,” he will talk about researching homes and buildings, with an emphasis on Sulphur Springs structures. You are invited to a Zoom meeting.
When: Jan 15, 2026 07:00 PM Central Time (US and Canada)
Register in advance for this meeting:
https://zoom.us/meeting/register/Y0CWnsIBQ5GS_SX840ezMg
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
January Gardening List by Master Gardener Ronnie Wilson
January 8, 2026 – Gardening in January can be cold and uncomfortable, but in Hopkins County we are usually gifted with many pleasant winter days. Planning, planting, transplanting, pruning, and other general garden maintenance can all be accomplished during this time when many plants are dormant. Here are a few ideas to help gardeners get off the couch and be productive until spring arrives!
January is a perfect time to prune trees and shrubs. For trees, remove dead limbs by cutting them close to the trunk, as well as those limbs that cross or rub against other branches. Removing dead wood reduces the chance of disease and insect infestation, while removing the branches that rub on another prevents future problems.
For shrubs, trim and re-shape the plant as needed to achieve a balanced, symmetrical shape. Electric hedge trimmers work quickly on large jobs, while hand-held cutters are great for small shrubs and finer, more detailed trimming.
Transplant any shrub, bush, or perennials now. It is also a good time to plant new trees. While these plants are dormant is the best time to re-locate them to a better growing environment. Try to keep as much of the roots and soil ball as possible when digging and moving so that the plant has a better chance of success in its new home. Dig the new hole a little larger than the soil ball, plant at the same depth, and water deeply.
Planting in January can be successful with the right plants for the cold! Pansies, violas, and pinks (Dianthus) are hardy throughout the winter, and will add color to the garden from now until the heat arrives. Some protection may be needed outdoors if temps become truly frigid, but 40s should be OK. The local nurseries will have a variety of plants for sale that are winter hardy and suitable for the season.
January Veggies can be planted from transplants, but it is too early to plant seed. Onions, both bulbs and onion “sets”, can be planted in mid-January, as well as broccoli, ornamental cabbage. and kale. Seeds of summer vegetables can be started indoors in late January and early February in order to have vigorous young transplants ready for the spring season.
General Chores in January may include perusing seed catalogues for new varieties of flowers and vegetables. An “always useful-no matter the season” chore involves watching houseplants for insects, and keeping a regular indoor watering and feeding schedule. And as always, keep outdoor garden areas mulched to prevent weeds, retain moisture, and to protect and help warm the soil.
Enjoy gardening in January! All too soon summer will return with its 100 degree days, and the brisk, chilly, sweater weather will be a distant memory!
Delta County Enacts Burn Ban This Week
January 7, 2026 – DELTA COUNTY IS CURRENTLY UNDER A BURN BAN.
An emergency 7-day burn ban is in effect for unincorporated areas of Delta County, Texas, as of January 7, 2026, due to elevated wildfire risk
The Commissioners Court will review this ban on January 13, 2026, to decide on extending or lifting it. Open burning is prohibited, though some exceptions for contained, non-commercial cooking may apply.
Key Details:
Penalty: Violation is a Class “C” misdemeanor, punishable by fines up to $500$
Location: Unincorporated areas of Delta County, Texas.
Effective Date: January 7, 2026.
Review Date: January 13, 2026.
Restrictions: No outdoor burning, including trash or brush piles.
RESPONSIBILITY AND CONSEQUENCES FOR OUTDOOR BURNING
View the State Law in regards to responsibility for consequences of outdoor burning.
Outdoor Burning in Texas Guide
Texas Local Government Code Chapter 352, Subchapter D, Outdoor Burning
‘Cedar Fever’ Time Once Gain
January 8, 2026 – North Texans battling runny noses, itchy eyes, and relentless sneezing may have a familiar culprit to blame this time of year: mountain cedar.
Often mistaken for a lingering cold or the aftermath of holiday gatherings, mountain cedar allergies typically peak during the winter months, especially from December through February. The tree, also known as Ashe juniper, releases large amounts of pollen that can travel hundreds of miles on windy days, blanketing much of North Texas.
Allergy specialists say recent dry conditions and periodic strong winds have helped spread cedar pollen more efficiently, worsening symptoms for many residents. Common complaints include congestion, coughing, headaches, sinus pressure, fatigue, and sore throats — symptoms that can feel especially severe for people with asthma or chronic sinus issues.
Unlike spring pollen allergies, mountain cedar often strikes suddenly and intensely. Many sufferers report waking up feeling fine, only to experience rapid symptom onset after spending time outdoors. Even brief exposure can trigger reactions, as cedar pollen grains are small and easily inhaled.
Doctors recommend limiting outdoor activities on high pollen days, keeping windows closed, and using air purifiers indoors. Showering and changing clothes after being outside can also help reduce pollen exposure. Over-the-counter antihistamines, nasal sprays, and saline rinses are commonly used to manage symptoms, though those with severe reactions are encouraged to consult a physician.
While “cedar fever” may feel like an illness, experts stress it is not contagious. Relief typically comes with sustained rainfall or the end of the pollen season. Until then, many North Texans will continue reaching for tissues and allergy medications as winter allergies take their annual toll.
