Chamber Connection – December 19th
By Butch Burney
December 18, 2023 – Now is the time to get your nominations in for the Annual Community Awards, presented at the Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce Membership Banquet on Thursday, Feb. 15.
Nominations need to be in by Tuesday, Jan. 2.
To nominate, the committees ask that you not just list a name but go into detail about why the person or business deserves the award. This is not a voting contest, but a nomination process.
Nominations are being accepted for Citizen of the Year, Woman of the Year, Small and Large Businesses of the Year and other superlative recognitions.
Nominations can be sent to [email protected] or mailed to the following addresses:
Citizen of the Year—Chamber of Commerce—110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
Woman of the Year—Chamber of Commerce – 110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
Caregiver of the Year—Chamber of Commerce – 110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
Community Pride Award—Adult Leadership Class—110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
Agriculturist of the Year—Hopkins/Rains Counties Farm Bureau— 233 College St., Sulphur Springs 75482.
Growth and Renewal—DBA—109 Jefferson St. E, SS, TX 75482.
Outstanding Professional Educator (Administrator, Counselor, Diagnostician, or Teacher)—Chamber of Commerce—110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
Outstanding ParaProfessional Educator (Secretary or Aide)—Chamber of Commerce—110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
Outstanding Auxiliary Educator (Maintenance, Custodial, Transportation, Nurse or Cafeteria)—Chamber of Commerce—110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
Businesses of the Year nominations should be for those businesses which exhibit outstanding community involvement—civic, church, educational, benevolent, humanitarian or other.
Large Business of the Year—Chamber of Commerce—110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
Small Business of the Year—Chamber of Commerce—110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
Banquet Sponsorship
It’s also not too early to get your tables for the annual Chamber banquet. Tables for 10 are $500 and will include sponsorship recognition. This banquet is usually a sell out, so get your sponsorships and tickets early!
First Responders Banquet
The annual First Responders Appreciation Banquet, presented by One Church, is set for Thursday, Jan. 4, at the Hopkins County Civic Center.
All first responders in the county are invited to attend, and the community is encouraged to help show their appreciation with gift cards and door prizes. Prizes will be given to those in attendance.
For more information on how to help sponsor the appreciation banquet, call the Chamber at 903-885-6515 or email [email protected].
Merry Christmas
To everyone throughout Hopkins County, we hope that your Christmas and holidays are a time spent with family and friends, a time to refresh and a time to renew your energy and spirit. We are blessed to live, work and raise our families in a community that supports one another. God bless you and yours this season. – The Chamber staff: Butch, Jaci and Kelli

The Next Hopkins County Candidate Meet and Greet will be held January 9, 2024
December 18, 2023 – The next Hopkins County Candidate Meet and Greet will be held Tuesday, January 9, 2024. The event will begin at 6:00pm and will be at the ROC located at 115 Putman St in Sulphur Springs, Texas. Those who plan to attend are asked to please send questions you want the candidates to answer to [email protected] beforehand. Beth Wisenbaker will be the only person who knows who sent in the questions. They look forward to hearing some awesome questions being answered.
Sulphur Springs Holiday Trash Pickup
December 18, 2023 – There will not be any trash pickup Christmas Day, December 25, 2023. Trash will also not run on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2024. All trash pickup will run a day behind for these two weeks. This message respectfully submitted by Natalie Burling, City Secretary, Texas Registered Municipal Clerk.

Winnsboro Police Department Media Report 12-11-2023 – 12-17-2023
Arrests:
Riffle, Sara 40 years of age, of Winnsboro, TX, was arrested on 12-14-2023 for Assault by Contact Family/Household Member/Dating Relationship
Pyron, Stephen 32 years of age, of Winnsboro, TX, was arrested on 12-17-2023 for a Warrant out of Wood Count.
Calls for Service:
The Winnsboro Police Department responded to a total of 133 calls for service during this reporting period.
Citations:
The Winnsboro Police Department issued 22 citations and 47 warnings during this reporting period.

Quaker Oats Recalls Granola Products, Over 40 Items Included
December 18, 2023 – The Quaker Oats Company announced the recall of specific granola bars and granola cereals listed below because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.

The products listed below are sold throughout the 50 United States, Puerto Rico, Guam and Saipan. Consumers should check their pantries for any of the products listed below and dispose of them. Additionally, consumers with any product noted below can contact Quaker Consumer Relations (9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. CST, Mon.-Fri.) at 1-800-492-9322 or visit www.quakergranolarecall.com for additional information or product reimbursement.
To date, Quaker has received no confirmed reports of illness related to the products covered by this recall. Quaker has informed the FDA of our actions.
This recall ONLY APPLIES to the specific products below. NO OTHER Quaker products are impacted.
RECALLED PRODUCTS:
Product Description | Size | UPC | Best Before |
---|---|---|---|
GRANOLA BARS | |||
Quaker Big Chewy Bars Chocolate Chip | 5ct 7.4 oz | 30000314074 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date |
1ct 1.48 oz 10ct 14.8 oz | 30000004081 (Bar) 30000315651 (Caddy) 30000315658 (case) | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date | |
Quaker Big Chewy Bars Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip | 5ct 7.4 oz | 30000316856 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date |
1ct 1.48 oz 10ct 14.8 oz | 30000004098 (Bar) 30000315668 (Caddy) 30000315665 (case) | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date | |
Quaker Big Chewy Bars Variety Pack | 36ct 53.3 oz | 30000567609 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date |
Quaker Chewy Bars and Dipps Variety Pack | 14ct 13 oz | 30000576533 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date |
58ct 58.6 oz | 30000562468 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date | |
Quaker Chewy Bars Chocolate Chip | 8ct 6.7 oz | 30000311820 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date |
18ct 15.1 oz | 30000450178 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date | |
30ct 25.2 oz | 30000573402 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date | |
36ct 30.2 oz | 30000566237 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date | |
58ct 48.7 oz | 30000563045 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date | |
1ct 0.84 oz 440ct 369.6 oz | 03077504 (Bar) 30000562581 (Tote) | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date | |
Quaker Chewy Bars Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough | 8ct 6.7 oz | 30000576519 | Best Before of Sep- 01-24 and any earlier date |
Quaker Chewy Bars Chocolate Chip Holiday Minis | 28ct 13.8 oz | 3000057787 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date |
Quaker Chewy Bars Chocolate Chip Halloween Minis | 28ct 13.8 oz | 30000312575 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date |
40ct 19.6 oz | 30000571231 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date | |
Quaker Chewy Bars Chocolate Chip Spring Minis | 28ct 13.8 oz | 30000569504 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date |
Quaker Chewy Bars Chocolate Chip Valentine Minis | 28ct 13.8 oz | 30000311639 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date |
Quaker Chewy Bars Dark Chocolate Chunk | 8ct 6.7 oz | 30000311868 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date |
Quaker Chewy Bars Chocolate Chunk | 1ct 1.41 oz | 30000003442 (Bar) 30000565879 (Tote) | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date |
Quaker Chewy Bars Less Sugar Chocolate Chip | 8ct 6.7 oz | 30000311752 | Best Before of Jun- 03-24 and any earlier date |
18ct 15.1 oz | 30000571682 | Best Before of Jun- 03-24 and any earlier date | |
58ct 48.7 oz | 30000565506 | Best Before of Jun- 03-24 and any earlier date | |
Quaker Chewy Bars Less Sugar Cookies & Cream | 1ct 1.38 oz | 30000003435 (Bar) 30000565862 (Tote) | Best Before of Jun- 03-24 and any earlier date |
8ct 6.7 oz | 30000311875 | Best Before of Jun- 03-24 and any earlier date | |
Quaker Chewy Bars Less Sugar Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip | 8ct 6.7 oz | 30000311769 | Best Before of Jun- 03-24 and any earlier date |
Quaker Chewy Bars Less Sugar Variety | 8ct 6.7 oz | 30000311943 | Best Before of Jun- 03-24 and any earlier date |
18ct 15.1 oz | 30000450109 | Best Before of Jun- 03-24 and any earlier date | |
58ct 48.7 oz | 30000564998 | Best Before of Jun- 03-24 and any earlier date | |
60ct 50.4 oz | 30000575185 | Best Before of Jun- 03-24 and any earlier date | |
Quaker Chewy Bars Oatmeal Raisin | 8ct 6.7 oz | 30000311806 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date |
58ct 48.7 oz | 30000568798 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date | |
1ct 0.84 oz 440ct 369.6 oz | 03076709 (Bar) 30000577011 (Tote) | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date | |
Quaker Chewy Bars Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip | 8ct 6.7 oz | 30000311844 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date |
18ct 15.1 oz | 30000567265 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date | |
58ct 48.7 oz | 30000565513 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date | |
1ct 0.84oz 440ct 369.6 oz | 03077601 (Bar) 30000562598 (Tote) | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date | |
Quaker Chewy Bars S’mores | 1ct 0.84oz | 03076806 (Bar) | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date |
8ct 6.7 oz | 30000311813 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date | |
18ct 15.1 oz | 30000573174 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date | |
58ct 48.7 oz | 30000568804 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date | |
Quaker Chewy Bars Variety Pack | 8ct 6.7 oz | 30000311882 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date |
14ct 11.8 oz | 30000575284 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date | |
18ct 15.1 oz | 30000451304 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date | |
30ct 25.2 oz | 30000573419 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date | |
36ct 30.2 oz | 30000566244 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date | |
48ct 40.3 oz | 30000317709 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date | |
58ct 48.7 oz | 30000562093 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date | |
58ct 48.7 oz | 30000565520 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date | |
58ct 48.7 oz | 30000577257 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date | |
60ct 50.4 oz | 30000577349 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date | |
Quaker Chewy Dipps Chocolate Chip | 6ct 6.5 oz | 30000312698 | Best Before of Oct- 01-24 and any earlier date |
14ct 15.3 oz | 30000450529 | Best Before of Oct- 01-24 and any earlier date | |
24ct 26.2 oz | 30000576809 | Best Before of Oct- 01-24 and any earlier date | |
30ct 32.7 oz | 30000569061 | Best Before of Oct- 01-24 and any earlier date | |
34ct 37.1 oz | 30000311653 | Best Before of Oct- 01-24 and any earlier date | |
Quaker Chewy Dipps Peanut Butter | 6ct 6.3 oz | 30000312711 | Best Before of Oct- 01-24 and any earlier date |
14ct 14.7 oz | 30000311332 | Best Before of Oct- 01-24 and any earlier date | |
Quaker Chewy Dipps Variety Pack | 14ct 15 oz | 30000567272 | Best Before of Oct- 01-24 and any earlier date |
48ct 51.6 oz | 30000574836 | Best Before of Oct- 01-24 and any earlier date | |
Quaker Chewy Mini Dipps Birthday Blast | 12ct 8.9 oz | 30000572733 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date |
Quaker Chewy Mini Dipps Summer Night S’mores | 12ct 8.9 oz | 30000572757 | Best Before of Aug- 02-24 and any earlier date |
GRANOLA CEREAL | |||
Quaker Puffed Granola Apple Cinnamon Cereal | 17 oz | 30000575758 | Best Before of Sep- 01-24 and any earlier date |
Quaker Puffed Granola Blueberry Vanilla Cereal | 17 oz | 30000575765 | Best Before of Sep- 01-24 and any earlier date |
Quaker Simply Granola Oats, Honey & Almonds Cereal | 2PK 48.2 oz | 30000573488 | Best Before of Sep- 01-24 and any earlier date |
Quaker Simply Granola Oats, Honey & Almonds Cereal | 24.1 oz | 30000572429 | Best Before of Sep- 01-24 and any earlier date |
Quaker Simply Granola Oats, Honey, Raisins & Almonds Cereal | 24.1 oz | 30000572436 | Best Before of Jun- 03-24 and any earlier date |
Quaker Simply Granola Oats, Honey, Raisins & Almonds Cereal | 2PK 48.2 oz | 30000577721 | Best Before of Sep- 01-24 and any earlier date |
Quaker Simply Granola Oats, Honey, Raisins & Almonds Cereal | 69 oz | 30000436073 | Best Before of Sep- 01-24 and any earlier date |
Quaker Protein Granola Oats, Chocolate, & Almonds Flavor | 18 oz | 30000571627 | Best Before of Jan- 09-24 and any earlier date |
2PK 36 oz | 30000577783 | Best Before of Jan- 09-24 and any earlier date | |
GRANOLA BARS INCLUDED IN THE FOLLOWING SNACK BOXES | |||
Quaker Chocolatey Favorites Snack Mix | 20ct Box 378 oz | 30000577325 | Jun-03-24 and any earlier date |
Quaker On The Go Snack Mix | 20ct Box 344 oz | 30000577318 | Jun-03-24 and any earlier date |
Frito-Lay Snacks Variety Pack With Quaker Chewy | 20ct 17.42 oz (493.8g) | 28400715607 | Best Before March 12 2024 and any earlier date |
Frito-Lay Chips and Quaker Chewy Granola Bars Variety Pack | 40ct 36.94 oz | 28400697965 | Best Before March 12 2024 and any earlier date |
Crunchy & Chewy Snacks, Frito-Lay Chips, Cookies, Nuts and Quaker Chewy Bars Variety Pack | 40ct 36.205 oz | 28400714259 | Best Before March 12 2024 and any earlier date |
Lunch Box Mix, Frito-Lay Chips, Cookies and Quaker Chewy Bars Variety Pack | 40ct 40.62 oz | 28400713375 | Best Before March 12 2024 and any earlier date |
Frito-Lay Popped & Baked Chips with Cookies, Nuts and Quaker Chewy Bars Variety Pack | 40ct 35.58 oz | 28400714273 | Best Before March 12 2024 and any earlier date |
Frito-Lay Snack Time Favorites with Baked, Smartfood, SunChips and Quaker Chewy Granola Bars Variety Pack | 40ct 33.94 oz | 28400698009 | Best Before March 12 2024 and any earlier date |
Tasty Snacks, Frito-Lay Chips, Nuts, Cookies and Quaker Chewy Bars Variety Pack | 40ct 41.56 oz | 28400713368 | Best Before March 12 2024 and any earlier date |
Ultimate Flavor Snack Care Package, Variety Assortment of Chips, Cookies, Crackers, & More | 40ct 50.89 oz | 28400734868 | Best Before March 12 2024 and any earlier date |
Frankincense and Myrrh for Christmas From Master Gardener David Wall
December 17, 2023 – We all know the story of the Magi bringing gold, frankincense and myrrh to Joseph, Mary and Jesus, but there was always the question of what was it, and why was it so important to warrant giving to the Christ child. Further, why has it been traded as an object of value for thousands of years.
Frankincense is tree sap or resin that comes from multiple trees in the Boswellia genus. Trees are tapped, not unlike Maple trees. Sap oozes out and hardens over a several day period into a gum resin. Trees are tapped twice a year for up three months at a time. Tapping can continue for six years before stopping for a few years.
Some of the earliest uses of camels in the middle east were to transport frankincense to distant lands. The literature gives no indication that frankincense trees grow in Israel.
Frankincense has a long history as an anointing oil, an ingredient in cosmetics, and in aromatherapy that calms, relaxes, and reduces stress. Several countries, including Greece, Egypt, Israel, and Rome used frankincense in religious ceremonies as well as an embalming liquid to honor the dead and prevent rapid decomposition while covering a dead body’s smell.
Used today by many churches at Christmas and Easter, Frankincense is a valuable asset that would have been welcomed by Joseph and Mary.
Like frankincense, myrrh is a tree extract (sap) from a small thorny tree. The resin is soft when extracted, but later becomes hard. It’s been used for thousands of years for perfume, incense, and medicine. It’s mentioned in the Old Testament as far back as early Genesis.
Myrrh was used in ancient Egypt for embalming of mummies. Ancient Grecians used it in treating wounds due to its antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Today, you can find myrrh as an ingredient in such diverse products as toothpaste, mouthwash, liniments for bruises & sprains, salves, and toothache analgesics. It is even being studied for its possible ability to fight cancer. It can be taken internally to fight ulcers, indigestion, arthritis pain, and other internal ailments. About the only negative aspect is that it should never be used by pregnant women, as it could cause a miscarriage.
Myrrh was an ingredient used in the incense for in the First and Second Temples at Jerusalem, as well as in anointing high priests and kings, and was considered valuable enough to be traded throughout the Mediterranean area.
Today, myrrh (mixed with frankincense) is used in traditional Roman Catholic and Episcopal services as well as numerous orthodox churches.

Welders Being Certified at the Paris Junior College
Welding Certification
December 17, 2023 – Because welding is such a skilled trade that requires precision work, it is necessary to become certified as a welder before landing a great job. Requirements for welders can vary from employer to employer.
John Plemons, the instructor at the PJC-Sulphur Springs Welding School, recently tested his summer classes and 28 students passed and received their certification and ready to go to work.
Samuel Aragon, Commerce; Jesus Arriaga,Royse City; James Barrett,Como; Landin Dugalle,Sulphur Springs; Tobias Hackney,Celeste;Trey Hollowa,-Greenville; Maiique McCarter, Sulphur Springs, Trenton McKinney; Yantis; Madison Roberts,Sulphur Springs; James Rodriquez, Commerce; Alden Schaffi, Greenville, Jonathan Pichardo, Sulphur Springs; Nicholas Niemirirowski, Como; Douglas Thomas, Quinlan; Shawn Hartkube; Campbell.
Also Bryce Akin, Greenville; Freddie Jackson, Yantis; Luis Hernandez, Winnsboro; Cole Jackson, Fate; Edgar Martinez, Mt. Vernon; Yordy Vazquez, Pickton; Shamar Whaley, Sulphur Springs, Alessaandro Alvarez, Brashear; Jason Keyes, Sulphur Springs; Andrew Price, David Ruth, Sulphur Springs; Cole Stover, Greenville; Angela Tijerina, Commerce.

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.
Dinner Bell For December 20 and 27, 2023
There will be no Dinner Bell meals on December 20 and December 27 to allow the staff to celebrate the holidays with family and friends. Please come on January 3, 2024 as we start our 13th year with this feeding ministry.
May the community have a MERRY CHRISTMAS and experience a joyful, blessed and HAPPY NEW YEAR.
JANUARY 3, 2024 to meet again.
TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF BY FOLLOWING SAFE HEALTH PRACTICES AS FLU AND COVID ARE LURKING! WASH YOUR HANDS OFTEN! WEAR MASKS WHERE REQUIRED! GET INOCULATED AND BOOSTED!!!
DINNER BELL CARES ABOUT YOUR HEALTH!!!
From the Dinner Bell staff:
MERRY CHRISTMAS and A VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! WE WILL TAKE A SHORT BREAK AND RETURN ON JANUARY 3, 2024.

Brush Project Set on US 271 South in Lamar and Red River Counties
December 15, 2023
PARIS – Texas Department of Transportation officials today announced that a roadside improvement project along a portion of US 271 South in Lamar and Red River Counties is set to begin Jan. 3, 2024.
The contractor, A.L. Helmcamp Inc., was granted 92 working days, weather permitting, to complete this project valued at more than $2.2 million. The contractor plans to set road alert barricades Jan. 2, 2024 and begin work Jan. 3, 2024. The target completion date for this project is June 2024.
The contractor will remove trees and brush on US 271 South from FM 196 North in Lamar County to State Highway 37 in Red River County, officials said.
This contractor will be performing this work off the pavement, but travelers in this area need to remain alert for trucks entering and leaving work areas adjacent to US 271 South in the project limits, officials said.
Motorists who frequently travel in the area are asked to pay special attention to all barricades, traffic controls and signs, and to 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.
For more information, contact [email protected] or (903) 737-9213.
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Paris District Road Report for week of December 18, 2023
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in the district for the week starting Dec. 18, 2023. 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.
Sherman Area (Fannin, Grayson Counties)
Contacts: Sherman Area Office (903) 892-6529; Grayson Co. Maintenance (903) 893-8831; Fannin Co. Maintenance (903) 583-7566.
Safety Message: Seat belt safety guidelines
Texas requires drivers and all passengers to wear seat belts.
Ensure seatbelt fits snugly across the hips, not over the stomach.
Ensure shoulder belt goes over the shoulder and across the center of the chest.
Never tuck the shoulder belt underneath your arm or behind your back.
Learn more about Texas seat belt laws
Grayson County: US 75, from FM 1417 to SH 91 (Texoma Parkway). Watch for shoulder closures and lane shifts on the northbound and southbound US 75 main lanes between SH 91 and FM 1417 as crews work on building new main lanes, bridges, and retaining walls. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads between FM 1417 and SH 91. A reduced speed limit of 60 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set on the mainlanes for this construction project.
Mainlane traffic has been switched from the old mainlanes to the existing frontage roads to allow for construction of the new mainlanes and bridges between South Travis Street and Center Street. During this operation, northbound US 75 mainlane traffic will shift onto the existing frontage road approximately one-half mile north of South Travis Street and transition back to the existing mainlanes at Middleton Street. Southbound US 75 mainlane traffic will shift onto the existing frontage road approximately one-half mile north of Park Avenue and transition back to existing mainlanes approximately one-half mile north of South Travis Street. This operation will allow for reconstruction of the proposed US 75 mainlanes and bridges at Post Oak Creek. During this phase, US 75 frontage road traffic will be reduced to a single travel lane while US 75 mainlane traffic will maintain two travel lanes. Both mainlane and frontage road traffic will be separated by concrete barriers.
All eastbound and westbound lanes of Park Avenue under US 75 are closed to traffic. This closure is necessary to allow for construction of the new overpass at Park Avenue. To detour, eastbound Park Avenue traffic will continue on the southbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on South Travis Street, and turn left on the northbound US 75 frontage road to return to Park Avenue. Westbound traffic will turn right on the northbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on Center Street, and turn left on the southbound US 75 frontage road to return to Park Avenue.
The intersection of SH 91 (Texoma Parkway) with US 75 is closed to traffic to allow for construction of the new northbound US 75 overpass at SH 91. While the intersection is closed, traffic on southbound SH 91 will be able to turn right only onto the frontage road and detour to Taylor Street. Taylor Street and North Travis Street will remain open during this temporary closure.
US 75, at the US 82 intersection. Watch for lane closures and lane shifts 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 construction of new frontage road lanes.
The annual crack seal contract to place sealant in the pavement cracks on roadways in Grayson County has begun. The following roadways will receive a crack seal: FM 901 from SH 56 to end of State Maintenance; FM 1417 from FM 120 to US 82; Spur 503 from SH 91 to US 69; SH 56 from SH 289 to FM 1417; FM 3356 from FM 121 to the Collin County line; US 69 from SH 11 to SH 56; US 75 frontage roads from Ray Yard bridge to Oklahoma State line; FM 120 from US 75 to US 69; and US 69 from US 75 to FM 120. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 1417, from US 82 to SH 56. Watch for lane shifts and shoulder closures between US 82 and SH 56 while crews construct the new roadway pavement. The ultimate roadway will be a four-lane divided section with turn lanes. A reduced speed limit of 45 mph has been set for this construction project.
US 82, from SH 91 to FM 1417 in Sherman. Watch for lane closures as workers install a center median concrete barrier to help prevent crossover head-on collisions.
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. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Park Road 20 in Eisenhower State Park. Watch for daytime lane closures within Eisenhower State Park as workers perform base repairs on the roadway and then overlay the roadway with a hot-mix surface. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers 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 westbound US 82 lanes at Harris Creek and on the eastbound lanes at Post Oak Creek. On this project, the contractor is also installing a center median concrete traffic barrier between FM 1417 and FM 131. Motorists should expect lane closures while this work is ongoing.
Crawford Road at the Tributary of Big Mineral Arm. Crawford Road at the Tributary of Big Mineral Arm is closed to through traffic to allow for replacement of the bridge. During the closure, traffic is asked to use Basin Springs Road and Brooks Lane as a detour.
US 75 full depth concrete repair. Crews will be working on US 75 each week from Sunday night through Friday morning during the overnight period. Lane closures will be present at night for crews to replace failed concrete sections. Lane closures will begin at 7:30 p.m. each night and should be reopened to traffic by 6 a.m. This work will extend from the Collin-Grayson County line to the Oklahoma State line.
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 Monday and Thursday during the nighttime.
SH 56, from US 377 to SH 289. 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.
FM 2729, from FM 902 to FM 121. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform base repairs on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 902, from FM 901 to US 377. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform base repairs on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 131, from FM 120 to FM 691. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform ditch cleanout work. 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 has begun. The following roadways will receive a crack seal: FM 64 from SH 34 to the Delta County line; FM 151 from US 69 to the Grayson County line; FM 981 from US 69 to the Collin County line; SH 50 from Church Street to the Hunt County line; FM 904 from FM 64 to FM 1550; FM 274 from FM 898 to FM 1753; FM 1629 from SH 121 to SH 78; FM 87 from SH 56 to US 82; FM 273 from FM 1396 to FM 2029; FM 1753 from SH 78 to the Grayson County line. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers 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 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.
FM 271, from SH 78 to FM 68. 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.
CR 3210 at Bullard Creek. CR 3210 at Bullard Creek is closed to through traffic to allow for replacement of the bridge. During the closure, traffic is asked to use CR 3200 as a detour.
FM 2029, from FM 1396 to FM 273. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform edge repairs on the roadway. 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.
Franklin County: I-30, from SH 37 to County Road 3050. Watch for single lane closures and delays as crews perform pavement widening for truck parking area.
Hopkins County: FM 900, from I-30 to FM 3019. Watch for single lane closures and delays as crews perform surfacing operations.
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.
Loop 286, from US 271 North going west to FM 79. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures, lane shifts, crossing closures and merging traffic while crews place a bonded concrete surface and perform asphalt paving operations.
US 271, from LP 286 to Oklahoma State Line. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures and traffic merges while crews resurface the pavement and perform bridge maintenance.
FM 1507 (Jefferson Rd), from SH 19 to 0.8 MI North of Loop 286. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalk.
CR 26320 at Morrison Creek. Watch for temporary roadway closure and detour while crews replace existing bridge structure.
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
SH 24, Lamar & Delta Counties: from the FM 64 intersection to 1,540 feet east of FM 198. Watch for temporary lane closures and lane shifts while crews resurface the roadway and perform bridge rail upgrades.
Delta County: FM 64, from FM 128 to SH 1532. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
FM 2068 at East Fork of Jernigan Creek. Watch for temporary roadway closure and detour while crews replace existing bridge structure.
FM 2675, from Lamar County line to FM 128. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
Red River County: Cedar / Church Street (Clarksville, Texas), at the intersection of Cedar and Church Street. Watch for road closure while crews remove and replace the existing bridge.
Locust Street (Clarksville, Texas), at Delaware Creek. Watch for road closure while crews remove and replace the existing bridge.
FM 410, from US 82 to FM 3281. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalk and improve drainage.
CR 2127 at Scatter Creek. Watch for temporary roadway closure and detour while crews replace existing bridge structure.
FM 2120, from FM 2573 to FM SH 37. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
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 Culver Street to Live Oak. The contractor has placed work zone signs and barricades. The contractor has set signal poles at Live Oak Street and placed drill shafts for signal poles at University Drive. Signal work is ongoing at the various locations. The contractor is backfilling and placing sod at various locations and placing a drop inlet. 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. The contractor has begun preparing the right of way and placing driveways and driveway safety-end-treatments and cross culvert work in ongoing. The contractor is currently working on a culvert extension and placing rock filter dams. 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. Excavation work for the detour is ongoing. The contractor has been performing saw cutting edge lines of the existing roadway for detour tie-ins. Crews worked on fine grading flex base. The contractor is performing detour work and backfilling edges. The contractor will be conducting a traffic switch to shift traffic into new alignments along FM 2642 and FM 35. This operation will take place over the course of Dec. 6-12 with the switch happening at the Railroad on Dec. 9 and at FM 35 on Dec. 12. FM 2642 traffic will be shifting west and FM 35 will be shifting south.
FM 2649, from I-30 to FM 1567. The contractors have set barricades and work zone traffic signs. Cross culvert work is complete. The contractor has placed prime coat and will be placing temporary striping on the mile 6 of the 8-mile project. The contractor will be seeding and stripping grass on the next 2 miles of the project. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
Shelby Avenue and Bledsoe Creek Bridge: The contractor has set barricades and work zone signs at both locations. The contractor has begun demolition of the Shelby Ave existing structure and has begun work on abutments and riprap.
The contractor has been placing beams on Bledsoe Creek in Fannin County and placing riprap in locations along abutment. 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 will be performing eastbound mainlane widening and embankment placement. Utility work is ongoing. Temporary ramps are now opened. The contractor plans to place more barriers and perform mainlane widening and drainage work in the area. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
Maintenance crews for both Hunt and Rains Counties will be performing various sign and mailbox installations on various roads. Both sections have been working on bridge maintenance projects. Herbicide operations are ongoing throughout both counties.
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