It was Cloudy, But no Chance of Meatballs for the 2025 Wildcats Homecoming Parade
September 3, 2025 – Even a few clouds couldn’t stand in the way for the 2025 DIAL Study Club triple cloud roofing Sulphur Springs Wildcats Homecoming Parade! This year’s Wildcats Homecoming game will be played September 5th, 2025, against Greenville. KSST will broadcast the game, live on 1230AM, and will stream the game on our YouTube channel as well. Below is KSST/Cable Channel 18’s coverage of this exciting parade which marched through Sulphur Springs, Texas, September 2nd, 2025. . KSST’s James Terry provided commentary for the thrilling parade.
First United Methodist Church of Sulphur Springs Announces Opportunities for Local Youth
September 2, 2025 – First United Methodist Church of Sulphur Springs, Texas, is announcing opportunities for local youth to engage in fellowship and give back to the community. The Youth Group, Club 345, Cross Fire Kids, designed for 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders, will meet select Sundays at 2:00pm. The next meeting is September 21st, 2025.
Also, the Cross Fire Kids of First United Methodist Church of Sulphur Springs, Texas, will help out in the community with their project, “Mission Possible: kids” … These projects will give kids experience with hands-on community-based projects that expose children to various needs. This group meets select Sundays at 2:00pm. The next opportunity is September 14th, 2025.
Foundation’s Free Mammography Clinic Now Taking Appointments
September 2, 2025 – Sulphur Springs, Texas – Scheduling for the Hopkins County Health Care Foundation’s free mammography clinic has just begun. Uninsured Hopkins County women age 40
and older may call (903) 438-4325 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to schedule an appointment.
The clinic is in its 6th year and spots fill faster each time. Appointments for 75 women to schedule are open now until all are claimed. Screenings will take place in October, the month of Breast Cancer Awareness, and will be conducted locally in the Ruth & Jack Gillis Women’s Center in CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs.
The Women’s Center is equipped with up-to-date technology, 3D imaging, and kind staff to ensure a comfortable experience. It is located next to the Johnnie Masters Gift Shop.
This free clinic was made possible by every sponsor, volunteer, player, and person who directly contributed to the cause during Designer Handbag Bingo, one of the Foundation’s biggest fundraising events.
The Foundation funds free clinics, educational resources, and programs for the community as well as equipment, construction, and programs for the local hospital, CHRISTUS Mother Frances – Sulphur Springs, and the governmental agency Hopkins County Hospital District/EMS. All money raised is used to benefit healthcare in Hopkins County. For more information, contact the Foundation at (903) 438-4799 or
[email protected].
The Foundation’s free mammography clinic is providing 75 screenings free to uninsured
Hopkins County women age 40 and up. Call (903) 438-4325 to schedule. Melissa
Hastings, Stefanie Walton, and Carol Stillwagoner are there to ensure a comfortable
experience.
What’s New Under SB 541: “Texas Food Freedom Act” Broader Food Categories Allowed
September 2, 2025 – Texas is shifting from a limited permission-based model to an exclusion-based model. Starting September 1, cottage food operators may sell almost any food produced at home, except:
- Meat or poultry products (though eggs are allowed)
- Seafood
- Ice or frozen desserts (like ice cream or popsicles)
- Low-acid canned goods
- CBD or THC-containing items
- Raw milk and related products
This opens the door to items previously excluded—like cheesecakes, cream pies, banana pudding, vegetarian casseroles, cut fruits/vegetables, and other refrigerated or hot prepared foods.
Higher Sales Limit & Inflation Adjustment
The revenue cap for cottage food sales leaps from $50,000 to $150,000 per year, and will be indexed for inflation going forward.
Sales Through Third-Party Vendors Now Allowed
Ahead of SB 541, cottage operations could only sell directly to consumers. Now, non-TCS (non-refrigerated) foods may also be sold via “cottage food vendors”—such as local farmers markets, cafes, restaurants, or retail stores. The vendor—not the producer—must register with the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) and display a notice:
“THIS PRODUCT WAS PRODUCED IN A PRIVATE RESIDENCE THAT IS NOT SUBJECT TO GOVERNMENTAL LICENSING OR INSPECTION.”
New Requirements for TCS (Refrigerated) Foods
Foods needing refrigeration—called Time and Temperature Control for Safety (TCS)—are now permitted direct-to-consumer, but with extra safety rules:
- Producers must register with DSHS
- Labels must include the production date
- Labels or receipts must contain, in at least 12-point font:
- “SAFE HANDLING INSTRUCTIONS: To prevent illness from bacteria, keep this food refrigerated or frozen until the food is prepared for consumption.”
- Proper storage and delivery temperatures must be maintained.
More Flexible Labeling Options
Home address no longer needs to appear on the label—DSHS will issue a unique ID number that can be used instead. Labels must also include a statement noting that the product comes from a private residence not subject to inspection.
No Local Licensing or Permit Fees Allowed
SB 541 explicitly prohibits local governments—including health authorities—from requiring permits, licenses, or fees from cottage food producers or vendors. Officials attempting to impose such requirements may be disciplined.
Books was the Topic on This Episode of KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey
September 1, 2025 – On this episode of A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey, John Mark sat down with author Sharon Feldt. John Mark and Sharon chatted about the books, Go As A River by Shelley Read, and Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid. The two discuss these books in detail, and also share some facts about the authors. They also share the information that both of these books are being considered to be made into movies. Learn about these books and their authors, and much more, on this segment of A Second Cup Of Coffee.
Master Gardener Ronnie Wilson Dropped by for A Second Cup Of Coffee
September 1, 2025 – Hopkins County A&M AgriLife Master Gardener Ronnie Wilson dropped by KSST for a Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey. On this informative episode of KSST”s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey, John Mark and Ronnie chatted about preparing your Spring Garden, planting vegetables from seeds, about when the first frost is expected, and much more. Be sure to take a look at this interesting episode and see what you learn.
The SSHS Wildcats Took on Poteet in the First Football Game of the Season
August 31, 2025 – The Sulphur Springs High School Wildcats took on the Poteet Pirates at Memorial Stadium in Mesquite, Texas, in football action Friday, August 29th, 2025. Below is KSST/Cable Channel 18’s coverage of this exciting game. KSST’s Sports Director, John Mark Dempsey, and Tony Flippin called Play by Play and provided Color Commentary. Be sure to check out this thrilling game and see how well your Wildcats performed!
Governor Abbott Activates State Emergency Response Resources Ahead Of Heavy Rain Threat
August 29, 2025 | Austin, Texas | Governor Greg Abbott recently announced that he directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate state emergency response resources ahead of heavy rain expected to impact the state through Labor Day weekend.
“Texas continues to closely monitor weather conditions for potential heavy rainfall across the state,” said Governor Abbott. “Today, I directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to activate state emergency response resources in anticipation of severe weather. Texans are urged to have an emergency plan, and heed the guidance of state and local officials to keep loved ones and themselves safe. Remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
According to the National Weather Service, a storm system moving across the state over the Labor Day weekend brings the potential for heavy rainfall over a large area of Texas including West, North, Central, East, and Southeast Texas. Excessive rainfall may lead to hazardous travel conditions and flash flooding in some areas. Texans are urged to pay close attention to local forecast information.
At the Governor’s direction, the following state emergency response resources are available to support local severe weather response operations:
- Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1): Swiftwater Rescue Boat Squads to assist with flood rescues
- Texas Parks and Wildlife Department: Game Wardens, rescue boat teams, and helicopters with hoist capability to assist with flood rescues
- Texas National Guard: Blackhawk helicopters with hoist capabilities to assist with rescues
- Texas Department of State Health Services (Texas Emergency Medical Task Force): Severe Weather Support Package consisting of medics, ambulances, and all-terrain vehicles
- Texas Department of Transportation: Personnel monitoring road conditions
- Texas Department of Public Safety: Helicopters with hoist capabilities, Texas Highway Patrol Troopers, and the Tactical Marine Unit
- Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service: Disaster Assessment and Recovery Agents as well as County Extension Agents to support agricultural and livestock needs
- Public Utility Commission of Texas: Power outage monitoring and coordination with utility providers
- Railroad Commission of Texas: Monitoring of the state’s natural gas supply and communication with the oil and gas industry
- Texas Commission on Environmental Quality: Air/water/wastewater monitoring
Texans are urged to proactively prepare by making an emergency plan, building a kit containing emergency supplies, and following instructions from local officials.
Texans can find severe weather safety tips online at TexasReady.gov, check road conditions at DriveTexas.org, and access flood information at TexasFlood.org. All-hazards preparedness tips can be found at tdem.texas.gov/prepare.
Paris District Road Report for September 1, 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 September 1, 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.
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. Westbound SH 91 traffic is reduced to one lane.
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 northbound and southbound main lanes from N. Travis St. to Loy Lake Rd. will have alternate lane closures for mobile operations. This is a moving lane closure that will last for short duration at each location. This closure is scheduled from August 08 to September 01 from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM.
Westbound SH 91 from Broughton St to Loy Lake Rd. will be closed for bridge demolition from September 02 to September 03 from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM.
US 75 northbound exit to Lamberth Rd will be closed beginning August 20 to allow construction of the frontage road and intersection south of exit. Drivers can take exit 60 or go north and make a U-turn at US 82.
US 75 northbound exit ramp to Lamberth Rd. (Exit 63) will be closed from August 20 to October 20 from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM. This is a long-term closure, and drivers should use the adjacent exits.
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 Line. Watch for daytime lane closures on the US 82 eastbound and westbound main lanes as crews work to perform pavement repairs and then a pavement overlay on the surface. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours.
US 75 debris pickup, from Collin County line to Oklahoma State line. Watch for mobile lane closures as workers pick up debris from the roadway every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday during the nighttime.
US 377 in Tioga, from South of FM 922 to North of Mc Knight Rd. and from Hinton St. to Shawnee Dr. This project will widen US 377 on each side of the roadway to allow for the addition of a center left-turn lane. This project will also install traffic signals at the intersection of US 377 & FM 121 and at the intersection of US 377 & FM 922. Watch for shoulder closures and occasional daytime lane closures on the northbound and southbound US 377 main lanes as well as on FM 922. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
Southmayd Rd at Elba Creek, The bridge at Elba Creek was closed beginning June 25. The 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 697, from east of FM 2729 to US 69, This project will widen FM 697 on each side of the roadway to make the shoulders wider. The project will also safety treat fixed objects and add one course surface treatment on the full width of the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
US 69 from SH 56 to FM 151, Contractor will be performing flexible pavement repair work at various locations where there is pavement failure. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
Sister Grove Rd., Contractor will close the bridge on Sister Grove Rd at West Prong Sister Grove Creek to replace the existing bridge. The bridge will be closed on August 04, 2025. Drivers can use Cates Rd, FM 121 and Hynds Ranch Rd or N Lincoln Park Rd., Knob Hill Rd., and Stone Marshal Rd as an alternate route.
SH 160, from Whitewright to Collin County Line. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform overlay operations on the roadway surface. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
US 69, from SH 56 to Lovers Lane. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform edge work 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.
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. The bridge is completed and opened to traffic.
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 151 from Grayson County line to US 69. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform seal coat operations on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 1550, just east of FM 271. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform base failure patching & sealing operations on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 34 just south of SH 56 Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform base failure patching & sealing 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.
Franklin County: FM 21, from SH 37 to Titus County Line. Crews will be rehabbing the existing road. Watch for temporary traffic signals within the work area. Expect slower moving traffic.
Paris Area (Delta, Lamar, Red River Counties)
Contacts: Paris Area Office (903) 784-1357; Delta Co. Maintenance (903) 395-2139; Lamar Co. Maintenance (903) 785-4468; Red River Co. Maintenance (903) 427-3561.
Lamar County:
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.
SH 34, From Traders Road to FM 1570. This project will construct a turning lane, consisting of culvert extensions, roadway widening, overlay, and striping. Work on this project is suspended due to utility conflicts. TxDOT is working with utility owners to relocate utilities. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
SH 11, from FM 2655 to SH 24. This project will add shoulders and replace drainage structures Contractor is grading and shouldering up across project limits. Contractor will be performing milling and paving. 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 performing seal coat. Driveways, signage and mailboxes will be ongoing. 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 now in Phase 2 of the project. Contractor will be performing night work on FM 2642 to install flexbase. This work will be done at night to prevent traffic disruption during peak hours in the AM and PM. TxDOT signal technicians adjusted the traffic signals to better match the increased traffic peak hours. 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. Barricades and traffic signs are in place. Contractor will be performing seal coat this week. 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 working on drainage structures and leveling up shoulders. 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 and installing culverts.
I-30 Interchange Improvements, from Monte Stratton to FM 1903. Barricades and advance warning signs in place. Expect single lane closures Sunday night (8/24) through Friday morning (8/29). Lane closures both EB and WB for FM 1903, FM1570, and Monty Stratton. Contractor will be performing asphalt paving on EBFR at FM 1570, and EBFR/WBFR at M.S.P. Night work will be taking place at FM 1570 North intersection. Concrete paving on the Main Lanes at FM 1570 and FM 1903 east and west sides will be performed this week. Contractor will be prepping for concrete paving on I-30 Main Lanes center median at M.S.P. Expect daytime lane closures from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM this week. These closures will be utilized to help assist in material haul, asphalt and concrete paving operations. September 7th through September 9th, contractor will be performing Full Shutdown Lane closure from 7:00 PM to 6:00 AM. This closure is necessary for traffic switch to a new phase. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Improvements, from CR2511 to FM 36. FM 36 Exit Ramp is now opened. Temp wall work is ongoing. Contractor will be performing cement treatment and hot mix paving for detours around FM 36 area frontage roads. They will be setting and moving barrier at night. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
District Wide Lighting / Safety Improvement. Contractor is setting light poles and electrical services on SH 24 and FM 1528, and SH 24 at BU 24. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
Hunt and Rains Counties:
Hunt County and Rains maintenance crews will be performing pothole and sign repair work, and mailboxes throughout Hunt and Rains County.
Hunt County maintenance crew will be performing street sweeping on US 380. Crew will be performing bridge work on SH 224/FM6. Maintenance contractors will be performing guardrail repair and ROW mowing in various locations.
Rains County maintenance section will be performing pavement repairs on US 69 Service Road. 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.
###
Governor Abbott, THECB Announce Free College Application Week
August 29, 2025 | Austin, Texas | Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) today announced Free College Application Week Oct. 13-19, 2025.
“Texas prioritizes opportunities for students to pursue the best education they need to succeed in high demand, good-paying jobs after graduation,” said Governor Abbott. “During free college application week, Texans can apply to their preferred colleges or universities without application fees. By supporting our students today, we are investing in a stronger Texas tomorrow.”
Free College Application Week is a statewide initiative that helps Texas residents apply to public colleges at no cost. Created by Senate Bill 2231 during the 89th Texas Legislative Session, all public colleges and universities in Texas are required to waive admission application fees for Texas residents who apply through ApplyTexas to undergraduate programs.
Alongside My Texas Future, ApplyTexas, and the Direct Admissions program, Free College Application Week provides one more tool to help students streamline their college search and make achieving their higher education goals more affordable.
“In addition to the cost savings, combined with other tools available to Texans for planning and achieving educational and career goals, free application week removes a barrier so more students can take their first step toward higher education,” said THECB Commissioner Wynn Rosser.
For this first year, Free College Application Week is October 13-19, 2025. Every year after that, it will be held the second full week of October (Monday-Sunday).
All Texas residents applying for undergraduate admission at Texas public institutions through ApplyTexas may participate. This includes first-time college students and transfer students. For details on residency status, see the Texas Residency Guidelines.
My Texas Future, a digital tool that connects Texans with resources and information about postsecondary opportunities, includes personalized interactive features to help prospective students identify interests and skills, explore careers and programs, plan for school, and navigate financial aid. Visitors can create accounts, save preferences, and request to speak to an advisor. My Texas Future also connects prospective students to ApplyTexas and the Direct Admissions program.
Users may begin an exploration of professional interests with a career quiz. With information about jobs that might fit their interests, users can compare hundreds of Texas-based careers by local demand, pay, required education, and related skills. They may also compare credential programs by average tuition, location, and salary after graduation.
Direct Admissions provides students with a list of participating Texas institutions where they can qualify for acceptance before they even begin the college application process. Students share their academic information, including class rank, grade point average, and SAT/ACT score, through their My Texas Future profile, and can receive their list as early as the end of their junior year.
