USDA Announces Phased Reopening of Southern Border for Livestock Trade
July 1, 2025 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced a phased reopening of five key southern ports for livestock trade, following positive evaluations of Mexico’s response to the New World Screwworm outbreak. The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) determined that Mexican authorities have effectively controlled the pest, clearing the way for a cautious resumption of cross-border animal movements.
The reopening begins July 7 at Douglas, Arizona, and will continue with additional ports reopening each week: Columbus, New Mexico on July 14; Santa Teresa, New Mexico on July 21; Del Rio, Texas on August 18; and Laredo, Texas on September 15.
“The phased approach allows USDA to closely monitor conditions after each reopening to ensure there are no adverse effects to U.S. agriculture,” the agency said in a statement.
The New World Screwworm, a parasitic fly that can devastate livestock populations, prompted temporary closures earlier this year to prevent its spread into the U.S. APHIS experts have since confirmed that eradication and surveillance efforts by Mexico’s agriculture officials were successful and aligned with international standards.
Each reopened port will undergo continued monitoring, and the USDA will reassess after each phase to verify that the risk remains minimal.
The reopening is expected to restore critical livestock trade routes that support ranchers, exporters, and border economies. The USDA emphasized that it remains committed to both trade and animal health, ensuring that economic activity can resume without jeopardizing biosecurity.
Producers and transporters are advised to stay updated with USDA guidelines and coordinate with APHIS field offices as operations resume. The agency will provide further updates if conditions change or additional safeguards are needed.
This careful return to livestock trade marks a major step in supporting agricultural resilience while maintaining strict animal health protections.
This and That for July 2025 From Master Gardener David Wall
July 1, 2025 – Clip, store and hang on to this for use in 2026. Unless you’re eating organic bread, you’re consuming glyphosate, the key ingredient in roundup. While wheat may not be GMO ready, roundup will probably be sprayed on the crop to ensure the entire crop dies at the same time.
Water used in soaking beans can be used as fertilizer. The water used in soaking onions can be a useful pesticide and as a nutrient solution for plants. Sugar dissolved in water makes a great rooting agent.
Agriculture baking soda is a natural fungicide and insecticide. Mix one spoon of it with 500 grams (17 fluid ounces) of water. Spray the solution to wet vegetable leaves once a week for three weeks and forget about vegetable pests.
For a great rooting agent or root stimulant, mix 20 grams of brown sugar, 100 grams rice vinegar and 4 gallons of water. Pour on the plant surface weekly for four weeks.
Brown sugar is almost an unknown in vegetable gardens, but the literature suggests that 500 grams is the equivalent of two bags of fertilizer. Used improperly, and it does no good and may actually harm your vegetables. For a best use, mix 50 grams of brown sugar with 50 grams of liquid urea, 100 grams of rice vinegar, and four liters of water. Stir well and let ferment for 24 hours. Then spray on plant foliage.
For a great fertilizer to use on beans, mix a beer 50/50 with water, throw in a small handful of brown sugar, and pour on the plant base. Beer is a great soil stimulator, although I’m afraid to sue it full strength. So, I delete 50/50
Give your aloe plants a shot in the arm periodically by watering with a coke – Yes, the soft drink cola!
Cruz and Cornyn Want Space Shuttle Back in Texas
June 30, 2025 – Texas Senators Ted Cruz and John Cornyn are making a renewed push to bring the Space Shuttle Discovery to Houston by embedding their initiative—the “Bring the Space Shuttle Home Act”—into the sweeping “One Big Beautiful Bill” now advancing through the U.S. Senate. The legislation, a key part of President Donald Trump’s policy agenda, includes broad tax cuts, infrastructure investments, and nearly $10 billion in new NASA funding.
The shuttle provision, added by the Senate Commerce, Science & Transportation Committee chaired by Cruz, allocates $85 million toward relocating Discovery from the Smithsonian’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Virginia to Space Center Houston, the official visitor center for NASA’s Johnson Space Center. The bill directs “no less than $5 million” toward transport costs and the remainder toward constructing a new facility to house the orbiter in Texas.
Sen. Cornyn touted the measure during a June 20 press conference, calling it a chance to right a historical wrong after Houston was bypassed for a shuttle display in 2011. “It would be nice if there were more to go around,” Cornyn said, “but since there are only four, we are going to get the one that we should have gotten back in 2010.”
“The White House has nothing to do with it,” Obama said in 2011. During an interview Obama further emphasized that politics did not influence the decision-making process after it was implied that the orbiters had been awarded to states that were critical for his re-election.
The effort is not without complications. Previous cost estimates for moving a shuttle have ranged from $28.8 million to upwards of $300 million. The Smithsonian has warned Congress that the true price tag could exceed $200 million—far more than the $85 million currently proposed.
To avoid running afoul of Senate rules that prohibit earmarks, the bill avoids directly naming Discovery, the Smithsonian, or Space Center Houston. Instead, it vaguely authorizes relocating a “space vehicle” to a NASA center involved in the Commercial Crew program, with a display mandated within that center’s metropolitan area—effectively narrowing options to Houston.
If passed, the legislation would require the NASA Administrator to designate the spacecraft within 30 days and complete the transfer within 18 months. The House, which passed its own version of the “Big Beautiful Bill” in May, must still agree to the Senate’s language. Texas Rep. Randy Weber has pledged to support the shuttle’s move in the House version.
The political effort signals growing confidence among Texas lawmakers that their long-held goal of hosting a shuttle could finally be realized—pending Senate approval and the challenging logistics of relocating one of America’s most iconic spacecraft.
Are You A Texas Electric Cooperative Member? You Could Win Gulf Shrimp
June 30, 2025 – Texas Gulf shrimp are harvested from the pristine waters of the Gulf of Mexico and its coastal bay systems. Their reputation for premium quality is derived from a natural, robust flavor prized by good cooks and renowned chefs alike.
In fact, top Texas chefs are fortunate to have the Gulf of Mexico and its bounty in their own backyard. They consistently choose wild-caught Gulf shrimp in their kitchens, because they are deliciously sweet, complement any occasion and offer an array of flavor in every bite!
Wild shrimp also have a unique, briny (oceanlike) flavor because of their healthy, natural diet. This is just another way Texas Gulf shrimp set themselves apart from other available species. These tantalizing flavor compounds are particularly apparent in brown shrimp.
Two lucky winners will each receive a 5-pound package of wild-caught shrimp shipped directly from the Texas Gulf Coast. The contest is open through August 31, 2025. Enter today for your chance to win!
State Fair of Texas Wins; No Guns at the Fair
June 30, 2025 – A Dallas County judge has dismissed Attorney General Ken Paxton’s lawsuit challenging the State Fair of Texas’ firearm ban, handing a win to organizers and the City of Dallas.
On June 24, Judge Emily Tobolowsky granted summary judgment in favor of the fair and the city, effectively ending the lawsuit before it reached trial. Paxton had argued that because the State Fair is held on city-owned Fair Park, licensed gun owners should be allowed to carry concealed firearms under state law. The Fair, however, operates as a private nonprofit and maintains it retains the right to restrict firearms on its property—a position upheld by both the district court and earlier denials by the Texas Supreme Court and the 15th Court of Appeals.
The firearm ban was instituted after a shooting at the 2023 fair injured three people. Fair officials stressed that the ban aligns with policies at similar large events and prioritize public safety, supplementing security with over 200 armed police officers.
Lawmakers also attempted to pass legislation forbidding such bans by entities leasing public land, but those bills failed to advance. With this dismissal, the State Fair can maintain its current gun policy ahead of the upcoming 2025 event, reinforcing its stance that as a private entity it holds the authority to enforce safety measures independently of state gun carry laws.
County Extension Agent Mario Villarino Dropped by for a Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey
June 30, 2025 – Hopkins County Texas A&M AgriLife Extension County Extension Agent Mario Villarino-Gutierrez dropped by to be a guest on KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey. John Mark and Mario chatted about hay and it’s importance to the cattle industry, the need to provide enough calcium to your vegetable plants, the 4H members that graduated this year, and so much more! Be sure to check out this episode and learn what is going on in Hopkins County and the AgriLife Extension Office.
First United Methodist Church Welcomes Senior Pastor Rickwartz
June 30, 2025 – The First United Methodist Church of Sulphur Springs, Texas, welcomes their new Senior Pastor, Chris Rickwartz, and his family. Pastor Chris Rickwartz, and his family, his wife Amy, and their two daughters, Sophia and Lilly, officially join First United Methodist Church of Sulphur Springs, Texas, community July 1st, 2025. They will reside in the First UMC Parsonage. Be sure to give them a famous warm Sulphur Springs “Hello and welcome” next time you see them!
Texas Budget Surpluses May Be Coming to an End
June 30, 2025 – After several years of record-breaking surpluses, Texas lawmakers may soon face tighter fiscal conditions. According to budget analysts, the expiration of federal pandemic relief funds and a slowdown in sales tax revenue growth could constrain the Texas Legislature’s ability to fund major initiatives in the coming years.
Texas benefited from massive federal aid during the COVID-19 pandemic, combined with surging consumer spending that drove up sales tax collections—the state’s largest source of revenue. These factors helped fuel multi-billion-dollar surpluses that enabled historic investments in infrastructure, property tax cuts, education, and border security.
But that financial cushion is shrinking. Analysts note that the last of the pandemic-era federal funding is set to dry up by 2026, and economic indicators suggest a cooling in consumer activity, slowing sales tax growth. Rising costs, inflation pressures, and population growth will further stretch state resources.
“This could mark the end of the surplus era,” said one legislative budget expert. “We’re entering a more constrained fiscal environment.”
While Texas still enjoys a robust economy and maintains a healthy Rainy Day Fund, lawmakers may face tougher choices ahead—particularly as demands increase for school funding, health care, water infrastructure, and energy grid resilience.
The next legislative session may test how well Texas can adapt to a post-surplus reality.
New Guidance Enforces English Proficiency for Truckers
June 30, 2025 – In May 2025, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy signed a new order strengthening enforcement of the English proficiency requirement for commercial truck drivers. This move aligns with the Trump Administration’s ongoing focus on enhancing road safety, promoting accountability, and ensuring clear communication on America’s highways.
The updated guidance directs the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to actively enforce existing federal regulations that require drivers operating commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce to be able to speak and understand English sufficiently. This includes the ability to converse with law enforcement officers, read road signs, complete paperwork, and respond to emergency situations.
“For too long, this rule has been ignored or inconsistently applied,” said Secretary Duffy. “If you’re behind the wheel of an 80,000-pound truck, you must be able to understand traffic signs and follow instructions that could mean the difference between life and death. This is about safety and common sense.”
The enforcement guidance also includes training for FMCSA inspectors and state partners to ensure consistent application during roadside inspections and compliance reviews. Trucking companies found in violation may face penalties, and drivers not meeting the standard may be placed out of service.
Industry reaction has been largely supportive. Advocates say the move restores integrity to commercial driver qualification standards and ensures all drivers can communicate effectively in critical situations. Critics, however, have raised concerns about implementation and the need for clearer standards.
Nonetheless, Secretary Duffy emphasized that the policy is not about exclusion but about safety. “America’s roads must be safe for everyone — truckers, families, and first responders,” he said. “This is a commonsense measure that reinforces professionalism in the industry and helps save lives.”
The new guidance is part of a broader effort to modernize and streamline federal oversight of the trucking industry.
Paris District Road Report for Week of June 30, 2025
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 June 30, 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: 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. Lane closures will be in place in order to complete pavement repairs and to overlay the roadway with a new surface. 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 were converted to one-way traffic on Tuesday, May 27th. This one-way conversion happened on both the east and west sides of US 75 from County Line Road (CR 375/Panther Parkway) to FM 121. Lane closures will be in place in order to complete pavement repairs and to overlay the roadway with a new surface. After the pavement work is complete, both lanes of the frontage roads will be opened to traffic. 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. All other sections of frontage roads in the Van Alstyne area will be converted to one-way traffic.
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-turns at the US 82 frontage road intersection are closed to traffic to allow crews to begin work on a portion of the new US 75 mainlane 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.
The northbound US 75 frontage road exit to SH 91 is closed to allow for construction of the pavement of the new US 75 frontage road intersection with SH 91. During this closure, traffic is asked to stay on the northbound frontage road to Taylor Street and take Taylor Street back to SH 91.
Eastbound and westbound US 82 will have a left lane closure to allow for construction of drilled shafts and columns for the new US 75 bridge over US 82. Traffic should expect delays as US 82 will be reduced to one lane.
The northbound and 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.
The westbound SH 91 access to US 75 northbound frontage road will be closed to facilitate the next phase of construction in this area. Northbound motorists intending to access eastbound SH91 will need to take the N. Travis St Exit (Exit 60), follow the frontage road to Taylor St, turn right and follow Taylor St to SH91. A detour sign will be posted to guide traffic.
The southbound frontage road to northbound frontage road U-Turn at SH 91 will be closed to facilitate the next phase of construction in this area. US 75 Southbound frontage road motorists intending to access the US 75 northbound frontage road will need to continue to N. Travis St, and utilize the U-Turn at Travis St. A detour sign will be posted to guide traffic.
The US 75 northbound exit to SH-91 will be closed to facilitate the construction of the ultimate ramp connection. Motorists intending to access SH-91 will be required to take Exit 60 for N. Travis Street/Taylor Street. Detour signs will be posted along the frontage road at N. Travis Street, Taylor Street, and N Loy Lake intersections.
The US 75 southbound frontage road from Lamberth Rd. to Taylor St. will be closed from July 2, 8:00 PM to July 3, 5:00 AM for paving works.
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 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.
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 each night from Sunday night through Friday morning during the overnight period. Lane closures will be present at night for crews to overlay the roadway with hotmix. Lane closures will begin at 7:30 pm each night and should be reopened to traffic by 6 a.m.
US 75 full depth concrete repair, from the Collin County line to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for lane closures on northbound and southbound US 75 as crews will be working each night 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.
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. The new signal light at the SH 289 and FM 902 intersection was activated on Thursday, May 29. The signal has started normal operation, and drivers should pay attention to this new signal as they approach the intersection.
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 SH 91 to the Fannin County. 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 Contractor demolished the bridge and started replacing it. During the closure, traffic is asked to use Frog Pond Rd & Spalding Rd or Klas Rd & Hazelwood Rd.
FM 901, from US 82 to US 377. 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.
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 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.
FM 274 is closed to thru traffic at the Sandy Creek Bridge in order for the contractor to replace the bridge and approaches. During the closure, traffic is asked to use SH 78 and FM 1753 to detour around the closure.
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.
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. Traffic will be required to detour onto CR 2815 & CR 2865 while the bridge structure is being replaced.
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 904, from FM 1550 to FM 64. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform overlay operations on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 151, from US 69 to White Wright. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform overlay operations 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.
Hopkins County: SH 19, from I-30 to Rains County Line. Crews will be rehabbing the existing road. Watch for lane shifts within the work area. Expect slower moving traffic.
Hopkins County: FM 1870, from SH 11 to Mine Haul Road Bridge. Crews will be constructing turn lane and hauling in roadway materials. Watch for construction vehicles entering and leaving travel lanes.
Hopkins County: FM 71, S Sulphur River. Crews will be boring to collect soil samples. Roadway will be closed during these operations.
Franklin County: FM 21, from SH 37 to Titus County Line. Crews will be improving drainage structures and trimming trees along the roadway to prep for rehabbing the existing road.
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.
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.
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.
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, 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.
Hunt County:
SH 34, From Traders Road to FM 1570: This project will construct a turning lane, consisting of culvert extensions, roadway widening, overlay, and striping. Contractor will begin setting barricades July 7th. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
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 is performing base work on the main lanes and working on driveways. Contractor will begin preparing to lay hot mix on the southbound shoulder. 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 completed cement treatment on last section of project. Ride testing and cover prime scheduled for next week. New guardrail placement is completed and work on mow strip is ongoing. Backfill, slope around bridge, and riprap are completed. Driveways, signage and mailboxes will be ongoing next week. 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 storm sewer. Contractor is working to switch traffic to new pavement on the north by July 11th. Contractor will be starting work on Phase 2 after traffic switch. 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 temporary seeding and subgrade widening. Construction on culverts and grading of ditches, seeding and driveways is ongoing. 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 currently prepping right-of-way and installing erosion control within the project limits. Contractor is removing existing 18” pipe and replacing with 24” pipe on the southbound. Contractor is performing structure work. 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. Barricades and work zone traffic signs installations are ongoing. Contractor is laying driveway pipes. 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 in place. Contractor will be performing temporary drainage work at FM 1903. Grading will be performed on east and west sides of FM 1903. Prime coat will be applied to main lanes at FM 1903. Hot Mix Asphalt will continue to be laid on the west side at FM 1903, during night. Contractor will be performing flexbase work on EB and WB frontage roads, and at Monty Stratton. Contractor will be setting deck panels and over hangs on FM 1903 bridge at night which will require lane closures. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Improvements, from CR2511 to FM 36: Detour paving will be happening on eastbound main lane near 2511 area. Detour paving will be performed at 2511 area on WBFR. At FM 36 contractor will be performing for hot mix on detour paving along EBFR and EBML, as well as WBFR and WBML. Temp wall work at FM 36 is ongoing Utility relocations are ongoing. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
District Wide Lighting / Safety Improvement:
Boring and trenching for conduit has started on I-30 at FM 513. 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.
Vegetative edge spraying will be ongoing throughout the county. Debris pickup will be performed on IH30 on Monday, Wednesday, and Sunday. Ditch cleaning will be taking place throughout the county. Maintenance contractor will be performing guardrail repair in various locations.
Rains County maintenance section will be performing fog sealing on FM 2874, FM 513, and FM 2737. Crews will be performing work on FM 1565 from I-30 to Kaufman County line. Litter pickup will be performed at various locations for picnic areas and boat ramps. Vegetative spot spraying will be ongoing throughout the county. Right of Way mowing and tree trimming will be ongoing in various locations. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
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