Latest KSST News

CHRISTUS Health Provides Tips to Find Relief During Allergy Season

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CHRISTUS Health Provides Tips to Find Relief During Allergy Season

April 7, 2025 – (EAST TEXAS) – Spring has officially begun, bringing warmer weather — and allergy season.  CHRISTUS Health is providing tips for relieving pesky allergy symptoms as flowers bloom and  trees release pollen. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 25% of Americans, or  about 80 million people, suffer from seasonal allergies, which range from mild discomfort to  severe reactions. 

“Allergy symptoms can persist year-round depending on where you live,” said Dr. Rita  Alumanah, a family medicine physician with CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic. “The key is to take a  proactive approach to managing symptoms before they worsen.” 

Alumanah recommends starting with an antihistamine such as Claritin, Allegra or Zyrtec early in  allergy season and rotating between different antihistamines every three months to prevent the  immune system from building a tolerance. 

She also advises that people know their “triggers,” meaning what specific pollens or molds they  may be susceptible to. Following the daily forecast and monitoring air quality can help reduce  your chances of experiencing an allergy attack. 

“Try to take as many precautions as possible by using medications, wearing a mask, and even  changing your clothes to avoid those particles that stick to fabrics,” she said. “Be very mindful of  the conditions before you go outside, especially for children or individuals with any immune  deficiencies.”

For milder symptoms, Alumanah said over-the-counter treatments such as nasal corticosteroids,  saline rinses, local honey and decongestants can provide relief. 

Severe symptoms include not being able to breathe or catch your breath, lips and fingers turning  blue, and normal medication not being effective. In the event of any of these scenarios, please call 911 or, if possible, visit the closest emergency room.  

“Everyone has a different tolerance to the changing seasons and what is in the air,” Alumanah  said. “They key is to identify what steps you can take that best fit you and your needs.”

Dr. Rita Alumanah
Dr. Rita Alumanah

Paris Junior College Receives Grant to Expand Student Success

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Paris Junior College Receives Grant to Expand Student Success

April 7, 2025 – Paris Junior College has received a $125,000 grant from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to expand a program boosting success for developmental students. The grant was co-authored by Carey Gable, Program Coordinator of English and Developmental Writing, and Dr. Jennifer Collar, Division Director of Communications and Fine Arts, and they are co-directors of the project.

PJC is already well known at the state and national level for innovative work pairing developmental courses with first-year English or math courses. These co-requisite courses allow students who are less prepared academically to quickly catch up to their peers. 

PJC’s co-requisite course structure is called College Connect in high schools, and Clarksville High School was the first to partner with PJC in the program. The grant will allow the College to expand supplemental instruction on campus as well as with College Connect in high schools.

Gable and Collar have participated for years in the Pathways Institute held by the Texas Success Center to encourage and share knowledge for ways to increase student success and degree completion. At last November’s Pathways Institute, Gable presented results of the College Connect partnership with Clarksville High School, and Collar was recognized with a Cynthia Ferrell Pathway Star of Excellence Award, which recognizes a change agent who has had a positive impact on removing barriers to student success and elevating the student experience at the college. 

“The root of Pathways is student success, and this supplemental instructor initiative is about improving student success,” said Collar. “We’ve done great work with the co-requisite and had great success using supplemental instruction and we’re excited to expand it.”

Dr Jennifer Collar Division Director of Communications and Fine Arts and grant co director is shown with the Cynthia Ferrell Award she received in November 2024 TSC Ferrell Award 2-21-25
Dr Jennifer Collar Division Director of Communications and Fine Arts and grant co director is shown with the Cynthia Ferrell Award she received in November 2024 TSC Ferrell Award 2-21-25

PJC initially partnered with Adult Basic Education teachers on a limited basis in co-requisite courses at PJC, and this individualized attention aided students. Their participation can now be expanded. 

“The grant pays for us to track everything and to pay for more supplemental instructors,” Gable said. “Where we’ve had one teacher with 20 students, we now had two. We’ve also partnered with the Writing Center and writing tutors. So, we may have as many as five teachers and tutors to help with a class. We’re meeting them exactly where they are and giving them exactly what they need to be successful.”

Gable and Students in Writing Lab 3-31-25 Carey Gable Program Coordinator of English and Developmental Writing and now PJC Director of Library Services is shown visiting with student Leatrice Smiley and tutor Arlee Simmons
Gable and Students in Writing Lab 3-31-25 Carey Gable Program Coordinator of English and Developmental Writing and now PJC Director of Library Services is shown visiting with student Leatrice Smiley and tutor Arlee Simmons

Gable sees great improvement but has more ambitious goals.

“I want us to have the leading developmental writing co-requisite program in the State of Texas,” Gable said. “The state completion average is 47 percent and we’re closing in on 77 percent. I want us to get further, to redevelop the entire thing. The way you do that is to increase one-on-one interaction with students who are behind.”

Supplemental instructors are taught a four-step teaching process by Gable so they may help students figure out what crucial knowledge they missed out on and get the students to ask how to fill those gaps. Then the instructors help them do just that. When students leave the class, they take with them a list of 10 steps for turning in a good paper in their next class. 

“It’s not just English 1301, it’s now in 1302,” Gable said. “We started tracking our developmental writing students in English 1302 and they’re catching up to our students who were automatically college ready. So, a student can come in at the lowest level and be caught up by the time they graduate.”

The next stage is bringing supplemental instructors to developmental math. Tracking math results began with the second 8-week terms this spring. 

“We also want to expand using supplemental instructors with our College Connect program in our high schools,” said Collar. “It means additional support for the schools.”

Any schools in PJC’s five-county service area interested in participating in College Connect may contact Collar at jcollar@parisjc.edu or Gable at cgable@parisjc.edu.

Paris Junior College 100 years 1924 to 2024 logo
Paris Junior College 100 years 1924 to 2024 logo

Paris Junior College — located in Paris, Texas, about 100 miles northeast of Dallas — has been a part of the Lamar County community since 1924.

Paris Junior College offers Associate in Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science degrees, as well as Certificates of Proficiency in technical/workforce fields. The college has expanded its academic curriculum through the years to encourage associate degree and university transfer candidates. Since establishing its first vocational program — jewelry and watchmaking in 1942 — the college has been aggressive in adding technical/workforce programs that will benefit students entering the workforce.

The campus of 54 tree-shaded acres includes 20 major buildings and residence halls and provides students a unique and pleasant environment for learning.

Paris Junior College also operates centers in Sulphur Springs, Texas, and in Greenville, Texas.

Vision

To be the educational provider of choice for the region.

Mission

Paris Junior College is a comprehensive community college serving the region’s educational and training needs while strengthening the economic, social and cultural life of our diverse community.

No More Free Lawyers for Illegal Aliens

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No More Free Lawyers for Illegal Aliens

April 7, 2025 – Chief Justice Jimmy Blacklock of the Texas Supreme Court has announced that the state-run program providing defense attorneys for illegal aliens will end by May. The program was initiated through an emergency order in August 2021, five months into Governor Greg Abbott’s Operation Lone Star—a border security effort aimed at curbing illegal immigration. The order ensured that individuals detained during the operation who could not afford legal representation were provided with defense attorneys, in line with constitutional protections.

However, Chief Justice Blacklock and the court now believe that the program has fulfilled its temporary purpose. Citing a steady decline in caseloads—thanks in part to ramped-up border enforcement—the court sees no further need for this extraordinary legal measure. Critics and supporters alike are watching the move closely, with some concerned about how the change might affect due process for those still facing prosecution under Operation Lone Star.

The decision marks a significant shift in Texas’s legal approach to handling border-related cases and reflects the state’s evolving strategy amid ongoing immigration debates. Robert Montoya first reported the update, highlighting how the rollback aligns with broader efforts to wind down emergency protocols that were only meant to be temporary.

USPS Adjusts ‘Service Standards’ in Attempt to Save $36 Billion

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USPS Adjusts ‘Service Standards’ in Attempt to Save $36 Billion

April 7, 2025 – The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) is implementing new service standards for first-class mail, periodicals, marketing mail, and package services as part of a broader plan to improve reliability and reduce long-term costs. The changes, which took effect this month, are designed to streamline operations while maintaining the agency’s commitment to timely delivery.

Under the new standards, 75% of first-class mail will continue to be delivered within the same timeframe as before. Meanwhile, 14% of mail will benefit from an upgraded, faster service standard. However, 11% will experience slightly slower delivery times. Despite these adjustments, all first-class mail will still fall within the existing 1-to-5 day delivery window, ensuring that most customers won’t notice a significant disruption.

According to USPS, the new standards are expected to save the agency an estimated $36 billion over the next 10 years. This financial relief comes at a critical time for the Postal Service, which has faced years of budget shortfalls, rising operational costs, and growing competition from private delivery services. The changes are part of a broader effort to modernize USPS and improve operational efficiency.

USPS leadership says the updates will allow the agency to offer “more reliable service” to Americans, even as it continues to face pressure from critics. In recent years, the Postal Service has been a focal point of political debate, with former President Donald Trump and others calling for privatization. However, USPS remains a vital public institution, especially for rural communities and individuals who depend on affordable mail and package delivery. The agency hopes that this new strategy will help stabilize its operations and better serve the public in the long term.

Junior Waverly Celebrated 100 Years of Service March 29th

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Junior Waverly Celebrated 100 Years of Service March 29th

April 6, 2025 – Members of the Junior Waverly Club gathered together to reflect on the 100 years the Club has been in service. The ladies met up at the HW Grays Building in Sulphur Springs, Texas, and shared stories, took pictures, ate cake, drank punch, and celebrated. Below is KSST’s coverage of this Historic event.

Junior Waverly Club 100th Anniversary
Junior Waverly Club 100th Anniversary

RFK Jr. Now Endorses Measles Vaccine

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RFK Jr. Now Endorses Measles Vaccine

April 6, 2025 – ​Texas is currently facing a significant measles outbreak, with nearly 500 reported cases and two child fatalities. The most recent victim was 8-year-old Daisy Hildebrand from Lubbock, who succumbed to measles-related complications despite having no underlying health conditions; she was unvaccinated.

In response to the escalating situation, U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., previously known for his anti-vaccine stance, has publicly endorsed the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine as the most effective means to prevent the disease’s spread.

Health officials are also investigating potential exposure at popular public venues. An individual diagnosed with measles visited Great Wolf Lodge and Grapevine Mills Mall in Grapevine between March 28 and 30, potentially exposing others to the virus. Authorities advise anyone who was at these locations during that period to monitor for symptoms and consult healthcare providers regarding their vaccination status. ​

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes that the MMR vaccine is 97% effective with two doses and remains the best defense against measles. Health experts continue to urge vaccination to prevent further spread and additional fatalities.

Blue Cross/Shield Reaches Agreement With Hospitals

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Blue Cross/Shield Reaches Agreement With Hospitals

April 6, 2025 – Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) has reached a new agreement with Southwestern Health Resources, marking the return of Texas Health Resources and UT Southwestern hospitals to the insurer’s in-network provider list. This move restores access for BCBSTX members to receive care at these prominent health systems at in-network rates, which typically involve lower out-of-pocket costs for patients. The announcement follows a period during which these hospitals were out-of-network, leading to concerns from patients and providers about coverage and costs.

BCBSTX stated that any out-of-network claims incurred during the contract lapse will be reprocessed to reflect in-network benefits, offering financial relief to members who may have faced unexpected charges. However, the insurer did not disclose specific details of the negotiation or terms of the new agreement.

This development is a significant win for patients across North Texas, where Texas Health Resources and UT Southwestern play a major role in providing both routine and specialized care. The agreement helps ensure continuity of care and minimizes disruption for thousands of patients who rely on these facilities. accessible, affordable healthcare coverage.

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is April 26th

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National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is April 26th

April 6, 2025 – [SULPHUR SPRINGS, TX] – On Saturday, April 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration will host DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day at locations across the country. DEA and its partners will collect tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid forms of prescription drugs.

For more than a decade, the event has helped Americans easily rid their homes of unneeded medications—those that are old, unwanted, or expired—that too often become a gateway to addiction.

Take Back Day offers free and anonymous disposal of unneeded medications at close to 5,000 local drop-off locations nationwide.

What:       National Prescription Drug Take Back Day

When:       Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Who:        Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office/Posse

Where:      Atwoods, 817 Gilmer St., Sulphur Springs, Tx. 75482

In partnership with local law enforcement, Take Back Day has removed 8,950 tons of medication from circulation since its inception.

Collection sites will not accept syringes, sharps, and illicit drugs. Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should remain sealed in their original container. The cap must be tightly sealed to prevent leakage.

For more information,visit www.DEATakeBack.com.

national-prescription-drug-take-back-day

Topping Your Pepper Plants From Master Gardener David Wall

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Topping Your Pepper Plants From Master Gardener David Wall

April 6, 2025 – Topping or pruning for plants such as peppers and cucumbers has been around for many years, but some aspects are seldom followed.  Basically, it’s a good practice for getting more and bigger peppers.

Topping is cutting off the topmost portion of the plant not long after transplanting.  This stops the plant from putting most of its energy into upward growth, and directs that energy into putting out lateral growth.  The result is a bushier plant with more foliage to shade and protect fruit in high temperatures and bright sunlight.

There’s also increased protection from high winds and heavy rains.  Finally, the increased shade helps prevent weeds and aids in retaining soil moisture! The ultimate result from a bushier plant is increased fruit.

Something that goes hand in hand with topping is removing the first plant flowers, the ones that show up soon after transplanting. Removing these early flowers will force the plant into producing more flowers, necessary for increasing fruit quantity.

When should pepper plants be topped?  The literature suggests shortly after transplanting, but this worries me. Strictly my opinion, but I wait until the plant is 12” tall.  Sharp, clean scissors are recommended, but topping can be done by pinching off the top with your fingers.  The top portion itself is usually just above or may include a small cluster of newly developing leaves. 

Some of you are wondering whether this practice really increases fruit production. My jalapeno jedi hybrid plants, left on their own reach 6’ in height, with some branches being 3’+ long with a handful of fruit on them.  Toping them considerably increases fruit production.

Still have doubts? When you transplant your pepper plants, choose two of the same variety. Top one and leave the other alone. Now, keep track of fruit production for both plants.

Paris District Road Report for Week of April 7, 2025

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Paris District Road Report for Week of April 7, 2025

Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in the district for the week starting April 7, 2025. 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: Pedestrian Safety

Pedestrian traffic fatalities increased 30 percent in Texas from 2018 through 2022 and now account for one in five of all roadway deaths. In 2022, there were 5,766 crashes involving pedestrians in our state, resulting in 830 deaths. Another 1,526 people were seriously injured.

The top factors contributing to traffic crashes in Texas involving pedestrians are:

  • Pedestrians failing to yield the right-of-way to vehicles.
  • Drivers failing to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians.
  • Driver inattention.
  • Speeding.

Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users because they aren’t equipped with protective equipment such as airbags, seat belts, and bumpers. All of us share a responsibility to follow the rules of the road and bring the number of pedestrian fatalities to zero. TxDOT offers the safety tips below to prevent a deadly encounter.

For pedestrians

  • Cross the street only at intersections or crosswalks. Look left, right, then left again before crossing.
  • Make eye contact with drivers before crossing. Don’t assume traffic will stop for you.
  • Follow all traffic and crosswalk signals.
  • Use the sidewalk. If there is not one, walk on the left side of the roadway or shoulder of the highway facing oncoming traffic, unless the left side of the shoulder of the highway facing oncoming traffic is obstructed or unsafe.
  • When walking, put away electronic devices that take your eyes and ears off the road.
  • Stay visible. Wear reflective materials and use a flashlight at night.

For drivers

  • Stop and yield for pedestrians in crosswalks.
  • When turning, yield the right of way to pedestrians.
  • Be cautious when passing stopped buses or other vehicles that can block your view of pedestrians.
  • Pay attention and put your phone away, so you’re prepared if pedestrians enter your path.
  • Follow the posted speed limit and drive to conditions.

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. Construction on this project is expected to begin on May 5, 2025.  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 further lane closures during the nighttime period. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads during construction. 

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 southbound frontage road from Taylor Street to SH 91 (Texoma Parkway) will be reduced to one lane to allow for construction of the new intersection.  An all-way stop will be in place at the southbound US 75 frontage road intersection with SH 91 (Texoma Parkway) to control traffic.  Westbound SH 91 traffic is reduced to one lane and will be required to stop at the southbound US 75 intersection.

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.

Westbound Spur 503 is closed to traffic near US 75 as the overpass to southbound US 75 has been removed to allow for construction of the new overpass. During this closure traffic on westbound Spur 503 will be required to detour onto the frontage road at the temporary exit ramp west of Theresa Drive and continue along the frontage road to the Loy Lake Road intersection where traffic can make the U-turn to continue south on the US 75 frontage road to the entrance ramp before the FM 691 intersection.

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. 

The westbound Spur 503 ramp to northbound US 75 is closed to traffic. A temporary detour is in place to divert this traffic onto the frontage road. Traffic will exit Spur 503 onto the frontage road using the new detour, continue along the Spur 503 frontage road which runs into the US 75 frontage road to the Loy Lake Road intersection. Traffic can continue along the frontage road through Loy Lake Road and then take the next entrance ramp to northbound US 75.

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. 

Northbound US 75 near Washington Street will be reduced to one lane on Friday night, April 11th starting at 7:00 pm in order to perform bridge repairs.  The lane closures are expected to last thru Sunday afternoon, April 13th.  Traffic is advised to expect delays on northbound US 75 during this weekend period and is encouraged to seek alternate routes.

US 75, at the US 82 intersection. Watch for occasional lane closures for the frontage roads on the northbound and southbound US 75 frontage road lanes between South Loy Lake Road and Lamberth Street, as well as on the eastbound and westbound US 82 frontage road lanes between FM 131 and Loy Lake Road while crews work on completing the remaining work at the intersection.  

SH 289, in Dorchester at the FM 902 intersection. This project will widen SH 289 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 this intersection.  Watch for shoulder closures and occasional daytime lane closures on the northbound and southbound SH 289 main lanes as well as on FM 902. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.

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.

FM 121, from Main Street in Van Alstyne to SH 160. 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. 

US 82, from the Cooke County line to FM 131 in Sherman. Watch for lane closures as workers replace the bridge railing and guardrail approaches at each bridge structure and install median barrier. During construction, bridge travel will be reduced to one lane while crews replace the bridge railing. Currently, the contractor is working on the eastbound and westbound US 82 lanes at the Union Pacific Railroad overpass. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures while workers perform bridge repairs.

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.

FM 1417, from FM 691 to FM 120. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform a level up on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.

SH 91, from Martin Luther King Street to the Oklahoma State Line. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform a level up on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.

SH 56, from SH 289 to FM 901. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform spot milling on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.

Fannin County:

The annual crack seal contract to place sealant in the pavement cracks on roadways in Fannin County is underway. The following roadways will receive a crack seal: FM 2029 from FM 273 to FM 1396, FM 100 from FM 273 to FM 2216, FM 2216 from FM 100 to the Lamar County line, FM 1752 from US 82 to FM 898, SH 78 from US 82 to SH 56, Loop 205 from 9th Street to SH 56, SH 34 from SH 56 to FM 64, SH 11 from US 69 to the Hunt County line, FM 896 from Business SH 121 to US 69, FM 815 from Business US 69 to SH 78, US 69 from FM 896 to FM 272, and FM 1553 from SH 78 to SH 78.  Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.

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 is closed to through traffic as crews work on and replacing the bridge structure and roadway approaches. During the closure, traffic is asked to use SH 34, SH 11, and SH 78 as the detour route.  

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 delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through 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 is closed to thru traffic while crews perform bridge repairs. All traffic will be required to take the exit for US 69 and then will be able to take the next entrance ramp back onto SH 121.  A temporary signal is in place to control traffic on SH 121 and US 69 during this closure.  Motorists should expect delays as signals control traffic through the construction zone.

CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek. CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek has an onsite detour in place to allow for replacement of the bridge. Traffic is asked to approach the detour shift slowly and drive an appropriate speed through the work zone while crews replace the bridge structure.

FM 68, from SH 78 to FM 271. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 28 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone. 

SH 78, from US 82 to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for daytime shoulder closures and occasional daytime lane closures as workers install sloped-end treatments on drainage structures and replace bridge rail and guardrail.

FM 100, from SH 56 to FM 2216. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone. 

SH 34, from SH 50 to FM 68. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform a level up on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.

SH 121, from SH 56 to SH 11. Watch for mobile lane closures as maintenance crews perform a sweeping operation to remove loose material from the roadway. Motorists should expect delays from the mobile operation in 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. Watch for crews performing drainage structure work. Expect slower moving traffic.

Hopkins County: IH 30, from SH 154 to Hunt County Line. Watch for crews performing concrete pavement repair during nighttime operation. Expect slower moving traffic at night.

Hopkins County: IH 30 at Bill Bradford. Watch for crews performing repairs to concrete bridge rail. 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: 

Loop 286, from FM 1497 around the north loop to FM 1507. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures and traffic merges while crews improve guardrail and drainage structures and perform bridge maintenance.

FM 1497, from FM 1184 to FM 3426. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures

US 82 / Lamar Avenue, from 33rd street to 42nd street in Paris. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures in the nighttime hours while crews improve signals, install a raised center median, and resurface the roadway.

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.

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.

Delta County: 

FM 2068 at East Fork of Jernigan Creek. The roadway is now reopened. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews replace existing bridge structure.

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.

FM 1487, from FM 910 to FM 412. 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. 

BU 82 J at East Langford Creek. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews perform bridge maintenance operations.  

Greenville Area (Hunt, Rains Counties)

Contacts: Greenville Area Office (903) 455-2363; Hunt Co. Maintenance (903) 455-2303; Rains Co. Maintenance (903) 473-2682.

Hunt County: 

SH 11, from FM 2655 to SH 24. This project will add shoulders and replace drainage structures. The contractor has set barricades and is currently widening shoulders and performing ditch work. Contractor prepared for hotmix (various locations) and removed traffic barrier at bridge. Hotmix was laid on shoulders, intersections and driveways. Concrete footings poured and culverts were prepped. Next week will be more excavation an embankment worl along with striping operations. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area. 

FM 1563, from SH 50 to SH 2655: This is a 2.7-mile rehabilitation project that will widen the existing roadway. The contractor has set work zone signs and barricades. Contractor is currently finishing cement treatment work on the second mile of the project and will begin prime coat and ride test soon. New guard rail placement is completed and work on mow strip is ongoing. Back fill and slope completed near bridge structure. Fog seal work on the 1st mile has been completed. 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 grading riprap, forming inlets and cleaning and patching cross culverts The contractor will also be addressing sidewalk near the DGNO RR crossing and placing asphalt for PH 1B traffic switch. Traffic switch has been completed and milling of existing roadway is underway on FM 35. Please slow down and be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area. 

FM 512, From SH 34 to FM 118. The contractor has placed barricades and work zone traffic signs. The contractor has begun repair work on base and subgrade failures. The contractor has completed the 2nd section of reclaiming and placing a second lift of flex base down station. Prime coat, construction on culverts and grading of ditches will be scheduled for next week. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.

I-30 intersection improvements from Monte Stratton to FM 1903. The contractor has set barricades and advance warning signs. The contractor has been working on placing embankment for wire walls at FM 1903 and FM 1570 and poured the cap abutment at FM 1570. and poured the back wall at FM 1570. The contractor will be setting panels under nightly lane closures. Steel tying is ongoing on the project. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area

I-30 Improvements from CR2511 to FM 36.  The contractor will be moving barrier during nighttime lane closures and milling shoulders and adding temp paving. Contractor has ongoing box culvert work near FM 1565 plans to restore the frontage road pavement during this time.  Grading work on the eastbound main lanes and westbound frontage roads will be ongoing. Temporary walls are being installed and dirt work with detours are ongoing throughout the project. Contractor will be pumping water and drying material throughout project.

Hunt and Rains Counties Hunt County and Rains maintenance crews will be performing pothole and sign repair work throughout Hunt and Rains County. 

Hunt and Rains County maintenance sections will be working on mailboxes, potholes and signage. Crews will begin overlay work on SH 66 from Caddo Mills to Greenville. Overlay work will also begin on US 69 from Celest to Greenville in various locations. Overlay work began on FM 6 from SH 66 to Collin County line. Vegetative spot spraying will be ongoing throughout the county.

Rains maintenance section will be working on potholes. Work near FM 1565 and SH 276 to address bridge settlement is underway Seal coat prep work will begin on FM 513 south of IH 30 Vegetative spot spraying will be ongoing throughout the county. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.

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