Paris District Road Report for the Week of January 4, 2021
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in the district during the week of Jan. 4, 2021. 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.
The annual contract to perform crack sealing operations in Grayson County is in progress. Daytime lane closures will be present during crack sealing operations and drivers should expect delays. The following roadways in Grayson County will be crack sealed this year; Business US 377D in Tioga, Business US 377C in Collinsville, SH 289 from the Collin County line to US 82, FM 996 from FM 120 to FM 1417, SH 91 from US 75 to FM 1310, the US 82 frontage road in Sherman, FM 120 from FM 1753 to the Oklahoma State line, FM 1897 from US 69 to the end of State maintenance, FM 898 from SH 11 to the Fannin County line, FM 121 from FM 3356 to SH 289, FM 120 in Pottsboro from Chrissa Drive to Vine Street, and the US 75 frontage roads from FM 902 to the Collin County line.
US 75, Grayson County: from FM 1417 to SH 91 (Texoma Parkway). Watch for shoulder closures and lane shifts on northbound and southbound US 75 between Center Street and FM 1417 as crews work on building new main lanes and the new South Travis Street Bridge. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads between FM 1417 and SH 91 as crews work on building detours and installing drainage structures. The northbound exit ramp for Houston and Lamar Streets (SH 56) is currently closed, and exiting traffic is requested to use the Park Avenue exit ramp. The northbound exit ramp for Pecan Street and Washington Street is currently closed, and exiting traffic is requested to use the next exit ramp for North Travis Street. The southbound exit ramp for Park Avenue is currently closed and exiting traffic is requested to use the Houston/Lamar Street (SH 56) exit. The southbound Washington Street exit ramp is currently closed, and exiting traffic is requested to use the North Travis Street exit. The northbound frontage road from South Travis Street to near Park Avenue is closed for crews to work on building the remaining portion of the retaining wall along US 75 at the South Travis Street intersection. Traffic is requested to use the US 75 mainlanes during this closure. A reduced speed limit of 60 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project.
During the week of Jan. 4 through 9, the Houston Street intersection at US 75 will be closed to through traffic in order for crews to perform pavement improvements in the left lane of the northbound and southbound frontage roads. Traffic on Houston Street will be able to make a right turn only onto the frontage road and will detour to the next intersection. This same process will occur for the Washington Street and Lamar Street intersections. This work is weather dependent and may be adjusted due to unfavorable weather.
The US 75 pedestrian bridge near Pecan Street in Sherman is closed to pedestrian traffic. The east side over the frontage road has been removed. The remaining pedestrian bridge will be removed at a later time. Pedestrians wishing to cross US 75 are advised to cross at the Houston Street signalized intersection.
FM 1417, Grayson County: from US 82 to SH 56. Watch for lane shifts and shoulder closures between US 82 and SH 56 while crews are working to construct a portion of the new Sand Creek bridge and the approaches to the bridge. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as crews perform utility work. A reduced speed limit of 45 mph has been set for this construction project.
FM 121, Grayson County: from Jim Jones Road to FM 3356. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as crews work to build portions of the new bridges and roadway. Watch for lane shifts and narrow lanes throughout the project as crews have moved traffic to the temporary detour section. The ultimate roadway will be a five-lane section consisting of concrete pavement when the project is completed.
US 377, Grayson County: Willis Bridge at the Oklahoma State line. Watch for occasional lane closures on the existing bridge as workers pour concrete for the new bridge structure.
US 75 Ramp Reversal in Denison, Grayson County: on the southbound US 75 main lanes and frontage road between Spur 503 and FM 691. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures on the southbound US 75 frontage road while construction crews work on completing the remainder of the project. The new FM 691 exit ramp is open to access FM 691. The new entrance ramp to southbound US 75 has been opened to traffic.
US 377, Grayson County: from US 82 to FM 901. Watch for temporary daytime lane closures and shoulder closures as workers install safety treatments on fixed objects.
US 75 debris pickup, Grayson County: 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 daytime.
US 82 & US 69, Grayson County: from FM 131 to FM 1897 on US 82, and from SH 56 to US 75 on US 69. Watch for temporary daytime lane closures and shoulder closures as workers install safety treatments on fixed objects.
FM 697, Grayson County: between FM 2729 and US 69. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews blade level the roadway.
FM 1753, Grayson and Fannin County: from FM 1897 to SH 78. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
The annual contract to perform crack sealing operations in Fannin County is in progress. Daytime lane closures will be present during crack sealing operations and drivers should expect delays. The following roadways in Fannin County will be crack sealed this year; FM 1396 from SH 78 to FM 2029, FM 1752 from US 82 to FM 1753, US 82 from SH 121 to the Grayson County line, SH 11 from SH 121 to SH 78, SH 78 from SH 11 to US 69, and FM 68 from SH 78 to SH 34.
FM 898, Fannin County: from the Grayson County line to SH 121. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
FM 1743, Fannin County: from SH 56 to FM 1550. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
FM 824, Fannin County: from SH 56 in Honey Grove to the Lamar County line. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
FM 1550, Fannin County: from County Road 3330 to SH 34. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
SH 121, Fannin County: from the Collin County line to SH 56. Watch for temporary daytime lane closures and shoulder closures as workers install safety treatments on fixed objects.
US 82, Fannin County: from SH 121 to the Lamar County Line. Watch for slow moving construction equipment as crews work on widening US 82 from a two-lane roadway to a four-lane divided roadway. Westbound US 82 traffic has been shifted to the new pavement on the eastern end of the project between the Fannin-Lamar County line and County Road 2975. Eastbound traffic will remain in its current lane, while crews work on the inside lane to build crossovers and turn lanes. Drivers who frequent this roadway are advised that all driveways, county roads and farm-to-market roads approaching the new westbound main lanes on US 82 will have a full stop before crossing over to the median. The on-ramp to westbound US 82 from SH 78 has been closed while crews work on building the new westbound main lanes. The westbound exit ramp for SH 121 is closed as crews work on building the new main lanes in this area. Exiting traffic for SH 121 is asked to use the SH 78 exit and continue along the frontage road to SH 121.
Weather permitting, on Jan. 7, westbound US 82 traffic will be moved to the new travel lanes between County Road 2975 and SH 121. Eastbound traffic will remain in its current lane, while construction crews begin work on the inside lane, building the crossovers and left turn lanes. Drivers who frequent this roadway are advised that all driveways, county roads and farm-to-market roads approaching the new westbound main lanes on US 82 will have a full stop before crossing over to the median.
SH 56, Fannin County: between FM 897 and FM 1396. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform spot milling on the roadway.
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.
I-30, Hopkins & Franklin Counties: From Titus County Line to Hunt County Line. Watch for lane closures and short traffic delays as crews upgrade metal beam guard fence.
FM 3389, Hopkins County: From IH 30 to FM 1567. Watch for lane closures and short traffic delays as crews begin work on rehabilitation of the roadway.
SH 37, Franklin County: At Winnsboro City Limit. Watch for lane closures and short traffic delays as crews perform work on cross drainage structure.
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.
FM 1507, Lamar County: from South Collegiate Drive to Loop 286. This roadway is closed while crews rehabilitate and resurface the existing roadway.
Loop 286, Lamar County: from US 82 W to 0.5 mi. south of US 82 E. Watch for lane closures while crews perform full-depth concrete repairs.
BU 82H (Bonham St./Lamar Ave.), Lamar County: from 19th St. SW to 33rd St. SE. Watch for crews performing safety improvements to traffic signals.
FM 1487, Red River County: from FM 909 to FM 910. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews widen and rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
FM 911, Red River County: from BU 82K (Avery) to FM 44. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
SH 37, Red River County: from US 271 (Bogata) to Franklin County Line. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews mill existing pavement, upgrade bridge rail, and place new hot mix.
BU 271D, Red River County: from US 271 to SP 38 (Bogata). Watch for daytime lane closures while crews rehabilitate the existing roadway.
US 82, Red River County: from FM 1159 to Bowie County Line. Traffic is shifted to the north side of the roadway between FM 44 and FM 1699 while crews perform pavement widening work on the south side.
Greenville Area (Hunt, Rains Counties)
Contacts: Greenville Area Office (903) 455-2363; Hunt Co. Maintenance (903)455-2303; Rains Co. Maintenance (903) 473-2682.
FM 2194, Hunt County: between Merit and FM 903. Work on this project is completed. Please be careful when traveling in this area.
FM 499, Hunt County: at Lynn Creek. The contractor has begun demolition work and will be working on forming and prep work for the concrete deck. Road closures began on Nov. 30 and will continue throughout the duration of this project. Please be aware of lane closures, and watch for workers and work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 1566, Hunt County: from FM 272 near Celeste to State Highway 34. The contractor is currently working on compacting flexbase and prepping material on a two-mile stretch of roadway rehabilitation beginning at FM 272. Please be aware of lane closures, and watch for work zones and workers when traveling in this area.
SH 66 at FM 1570, Hunt County: The contractor will be prepping the right-of-way and placing culverts for this project. Please be aware of lane closures, and watch for work zones and workers when traveling in this area.
Maintenance crews in Hunt County will be performing pothole repairs, mowing and metal beam guard fence repairs around the county, and removing debris from I-30 early this week. Please be careful when traveling in these areas, watch out for workers and maintain a safe distance from work crews.
Maintenance crews in Rains County will be performing various sign installations, potholing and debris removal. Please watch for lane closures, work zones and workers along the roadway, and maintain a safe distance from work crews.
SH 34 bridge, Hunt County: 3.5 miles south of Quinlan. TxDOT has placed a temporary concrete traffic barrier to protect travelers from the damage caused by an 18-wheeler accident. A project pre-construction meeting is scheduled for Jan. 7. The bridge/road is now open to both lanes of traffic. Please drive cautiously and safely in this area.
Please be careful when traveling in these areas, watch out for workers and maintain a safe distance from work crews. Debris and litter operations are ongoing throughout multiple parts of the county. Please be careful when traveling, and watch out for workers.
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Lady Cats Basketball Team Shocks Previously Unbeaten Gilmer Team At Home Friday
The Lady Cats Basketball Team got a highly surprising victory over a previously unbeaten Gilmer team, 48-39, Friday afternoon, January 1, in the Main Gym at Sulphur Springs High School.
Gilmer came in a perfect 12-0 with all of their wins by at least ten points and most of them by much more. The Lady Cats showed signs early that this game might be different for Gilmer as they led the Lady Buckeyes, 13-10 after one quarter and then 24-17 at the half. Gilmer came on strong in the third quarter and led 32-31 heading into the fourth quarter. Down the stretch, the two teams were tied at 34-34 with about 5 minutes left.
A couple of minutes later Lady Cat sophomore Addisyn Wall hit a three point basket to put the Lady Cats back on top, 37-36. Those points would be the first in a 11-0 run that gave the Lady Cats a 45-36 lead with less than a minute left in the game. 8 points by sophomore Kenzie Willis, all but 2 from the foul line, led the way for the Lady Cats. Sophomore Serenity Lewis also chipped in 4 points during the run. For the game, Willis led all scorers with 18 points.
Wall had 10 points with 2 three-pointers. Seniors Bre’Asia Ivery and Nylah Lindley both scored 8 points. Lindley, Willis and senior Dalanee Myles did a good job rebounding against a tall Lady Buckeyes’ team. Lewis ended with 4 points. The Lady Buckeyes were led by their 6-foot-2 senior post Haylee Jordan, who scored 13 points.
The win improved the Lady Cats’ season record to 7-6. On Tuesday, the Lady Cats travel to Hugo, Oklahoma for a non-district game with the Lady Buffaloes.
Jan. 1 COVID-19 Update: 22 New Cases, 118 Vaccinations Administered
Texas Department of State Health Services’ Jan. 1 COVID-19 dashboards showed 22 new COVID-19 cases for Hopkins County and 118 additional people got the first dose of the vaccine on Dec. 31.
COVID-19 Case Counts
The DSHS Jan. 1 COVID-19 Texas Case Counts dashboard showed the number of Hopkins County residents with confirmed cases of COVID-19 since March grew by 1 case on Jan. 1to 1,123.
Another 21 probable cases were also reported on New Year’s Day, increasing the overall total to 1,138 probable cases.
That’s 2,261 total COVID-19 cases reported for Hopkins County as of Jan. 1, 2021, of those, 2,053 have recovered from the virus. That’s 6.10 percent of the population who has had COVID-19 since March.
Also, one of the 71st fatality assigned to Hopkins County on Dec. 31 had been removed on Jan. 1, 2021. That leaves 70 Hopkins County residents whose deaths have been confirmed by death certificate to have resulted from COVID-19. While only 0.19 percent of the Hopkins County population has died from COVID-19, the fatality rate among those who have had the disease is 3.1 percent. According to Texas Health and Human Services’ Dec. 31 nursing facility report, 47 COVID-19 fatalities in Hopkins County were nursing home residents.
As of 2:35 p.m. Jan. 1, 2021, Hopkins County still had 138 residents with active cases of COVID-19.
COVID-19 Vaccines
According to the Jan. 1 COVID-19 Vaccine Data dashboard, 256 of the 400 doses of Moderna COVID-19 vaccination have been administered in Hopkins County. That’s 118 additional people who received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine in Hopkins County on the last day of 2020.
According to the DSHS data, 100 doses were delivered to Brookshire’s Pharmacy, 200 doses to CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic and 100 doses to the hospital.
As of 11:59 p.m. Dec. 31, the first dose of the vaccine had been administered in Hopkins County to 106 people ages 16-49 years of age, 71 females and 34 males; 83 people ages 50-64 years, 56 females and 26 males; 54 people ages 65-79 years of age, 34 women and 20 men; and 13 people age 80 and over, eight women and five men.
Test And Hospital Data
The DSHS Jan. 1 COVID-19 Test and Hospital Data dashboard showed at total of 14,283 COVID-19 tests had been performed for Hopkins County through Dec. 31, 2020: 11,538 viral tests, 1,582 antibody tests and 1,163 antigen tests.
Jan. 1, 2021 was another record day for COVID-19 hospitalizations in Trauma Service Area F. The count of patients in TSA-F hospitals who have tested positive by molecular test for COVID-19 rose from 191 on Dec. 31, 2020 to 216 on Jan. 1, 2021. COVID-19 patients accounted for 19.03 percent of the total hospital capacity in TSA-F, an increase of 2.1 percent from Thursday.
While Friday is the sixth consecutive day COVID-19 hospitalizations accounted for 15 or more percent of the total hospital capacity, it’s only the second consecutive day in which COVID-19 hospitalizations exceeded the 15 percent threshold. The rule by which counties in the TSA have to reduce venue capacity to 50 percent and not perform certain elective surgeries requires the TSA to exceed the 15 percent capacity for seven consecutive days.
The total hospital capacity for a TSA is the number of staffed available and occupied beds. This includes pediatric and adult hospital patients, general and ICU beds, inpatient and outpatient beds, emergency department beds, and telemetry and psychiatric beds, according to the DSHS dashboard.
The total number of staffed hospital beds in TSA-F increased by 15 patients on Jan. 1 to 1,135. There were 717 total hospitalizations, 21 more than on Dec. 31, and the total number of staffed inpatient beds rose from 1,028 on Dec. 31 to 1,043 on Jan. 1, 2021.
That leaves 326 available hospital beds throughout TSA-F on Jan. 1, four less than one day before. The total number of ventilators was also reduced from 72 on Dec. 31 to 66 on Jan. 1. While only five ICU beds were available throughout TSA-F on Friday, that’s one more than was available on Thursday.
7 Elected County Officials, Sheriff’s Officers Participate In Jan. 1 Swearing-In
Hopkins County officials started 2021 with the swearing-in ceremony for officials elected to office in November. The second floor courtroom at Hopkins County Courthouse was packed at 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 1, with family, friends and community members witnessing the oath of office and service issued to seven elected county officials and for the sheriff’s officers.
Hopkins County Judge Robert Newsom welcomed everyone to what he called a “very important, historic day in Hopkins County.” Newsom administered the oath of office from the Constitution to 8th Judicial District Judge Eddie Northcutt, as well as to Precinct 1 Commissioner Mickey Barker, Precinct 3 Commissioner Wade Bartley, County Attorney Dustana “Dusty” Hyde Rabe and Sheriff Lewis Tatum, who were all reelected on Nov. 3.
Many elected officials brought their own Bibles, held by their spouses or family members, as their oath was administered. County Attorney Dustana Hyde Rabe asked Amy Griggs to do the honors for her.
Northcutt said he is “humbled, honored and privileged to be able to serve” a third term as district judge. He noted the past year presented unprecedented challenges, including holding court in completely different ways. Three jury trials have been held at the Civic Center, complete with masks, face shields and social distancing. He offered thanks to everyone involved in and linked to the justice system for their incredible cooperation and support.
Barker noted the last four years have been an exciting time and eye-opening experience. He said the Commissioners Court has achieved a lot during those four years and is proud to be a part of it.
Bartley said it has been an honor to serve on the Commissioners Court for the last 8 years.
“We get criticized for a lot of things.I can assure you the Commissioners Court is working toward the betterment of Hopkins County, and I think each year we see an improving our county. It is a pleasure to work with the Commissioners Court,” Bartley said.
Precinct 2 Justice of the Peace Brad Cummings administered the oath of office to newly elected Precinct 2 Constable John Brian Beadle.
Beadle expressed appreciation to the community for allowing him to work and serve the community in his home county as Precinct 2 Constable. He expressed appreciation for the opportunity to serve Dallas Constable Office Precinct 3 for the past 20 years, but said he is glad to be given the opportunity starting Jan. 1 to serve at home as Precinct 2 Constable.
Precinct 1 Justice of the Peace BJ Teer administered the oath of office to reelected Precinct 1 Constable Norman Colyer.
Colyer noted that when he was sworn in the first time, he didn’t even have a badge. The late Roger “Tex” Maynard, who was retiring from the post gave his badge to Colyer to wear until he could get one.
The Precinct 1 Constable noted that the swearing-in wasn’t the only momentous event that occurred on Jan. 1; Norman Colyer married his wife, Donna, on Jan. 1, 39 years ago .
Newsom commended Tatum on the work he had done. Dignitaries and elected officials from other counties visit Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office to see and learn how to do things the way they are being done successfully, he noted.
“When I swear these officers in you’ll see, we’ve got a lot of fine officers that I work with that makes us great. So, thank y’all, all,” Tatum said.
After being sworn in, Tatum then called all of the officers from patrol deputies to investigators and read the oath of office for deputy sheriff, which they each pledged to uphold as well.
After all elected and appointed officials were sworn in, Newsom called the Commissioners Court to convene in session.
“Something that has to happen for everything to keep happening is that the Commissioners Court now has to approve those bonds that were signed this morning. Every elected officials was bonded, some more than others because some handle more money than others. But we have to have everyone bonded. The Commissioners Court has to meet,” Newsom said.
The Commissioners Court then voted affirmatively accepting bonds for county officials.
Paris District Road Report for January 3, 2022
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in the district from Jan. 3, 2022. 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.
US 75 full depth concrete repair, Grayson County: Crews will be working on US 75 each week from Sunday night through Thursday night. Lane closures will be present at night for crews to replace failed concrete. 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.
FM 1753, Grayson County: from FM 120 to FM 1897. Construction will begin on this rehabilitation project on Jan. 3, 2022. Traffic can expect daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and then overlay the roadway.
FS 121 (Grayson Parkway), Grayson County: from the Collin County line to FM 121. Construction is ongoing on this new-location roadway. The new roadway will be two lanes with shoulders and will be an extension of the frontage road of the Dallas North Tollway. Local traffic on CR 60 (Marilee Road) and Stiff Chapel Road should expect occasional road work at those intersections with flaggers present to control traffic.
US 75, Grayson County: 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. The northbound Washington Street exit ramp is currently closed and exiting traffic is requested to use the Houston/Lamar Street exit ramp. The southbound exit ramp for Park Avenue is currently closed and exiting traffic is requested to use the Lamar/Houston Street exit. A reduced speed limit of 60 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project.
Northbound and Southbound US 75 mainlane traffic has been shifted onto the existing frontage road near West Staples Street and transitions back to the existing mainlanes near West Cherry Street. This operation will allow for reconstruction of the proposed US 75 mainlanes and the bridge over Center Street. Within this area, the US 75 frontage road traffic has been reduced to a single travel lane, while US 75 mainlane traffic still maintains two travel lanes. Both mainlane and frontage road traffic are separated by concrete barriers.
All eastbound and westbound lanes of Center Street under US 75 are closed to traffic. To detour, eastbound Center Street traffic will turn right on the southbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on Park Avenue, and turn left on the northbound US 75 frontage road to return to Center Street. Westbound traffic will turn right on the northbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on Houston Street, and turn left on the southbound US 75 frontage road to return to Center Street.
Video animations of the northbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch and Center Street detour can be viewed online at:
- Northbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hLyVQ6rYNhM
- Southbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch:
- Detour for the Center Street closure at US 75: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OIMoHaqAFGg
Northbound and Southbound US 75 mainlane traffic has been shifted onto the existing frontage road from just north of Houston Street and transitions back to the existing main lanes south of North Travis Street. This operation will allow for reconstruction of the proposed US 75 main lanes and the bridge over Washington Street. Within this area, the US 75 frontage road traffic has been reduced to a single travel lane, while US 75 mainlane traffic still maintains two travel lanes. Both mainlane and frontage road traffic are separated by concrete barriers.
All eastbound and westbound lanes of Washington Street under US 75 are closed to traffic. This closure is necessary to complete work in preparation of the mainlane detour. To detour, eastbound Washington Street traffic will turn right on the southbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on Lamar Street, and turn left on the northbound US 75 frontage road to return to Washington Street. Westbound traffic will turn right on the northbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on North Travis Street, and turn left on the southbound US 75 frontage road to return to Washington Street.
Video animations of the northbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch and Washington Street detour can be viewed online at:
- Northbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch:
- Southbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch:
- Detour for the Washington Street closure at US 75:
US 75, Grayson County: at the US 82 intersection. Watch for shoulder closures on the northbound and southbound US 75 main lanes between North Loy Lake Road and Lamberth Street as crews work on building new exit ramps. Watch for shoulder closures and lanes shifts on the eastbound and westbound US 82 main lanes between FM 131 and Loy Lake Road while crews perform bridge construction. Watch for lane closures and lane shifts for the frontage roads at the US 75 and US 82 intersection as crews work on bridge construction and construction of new frontage road lanes.
The westbound US 82 exit ramp for Loy Lake road is currently closed for crews to work on widening the US 82 frontage road. Traffic wishing to access Loy Lake Road is requested to take the SH 91 exit ramp (# 643), or the US 75 exit ramp.
FM 1417, Grayson County: from US 82 to SH 56. Watch for lane shifts and shoulder closures between US 82 and SH 56 while crews are working to 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.
FM 121, Grayson County: from Jim Jones Road to FM 3356. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as crews work to build portions of the new bridges and roadway. Watch for lane shifts and narrow lanes throughout the project as crews have moved traffic to a portion of the new concrete pavement. The ultimate roadway will be a five-lane section consisting of concrete pavement when the project is completed.
US 377, Grayson County: Willis Bridge at the Oklahoma State line. Watch for occasional lane closures on the existing bridge as workers pour concrete for the new bridge structure.
US 377, Grayson County: from US 82 to FM 901. Watch for temporary daytime lane closures and shoulder closures as workers install sloped end treatments on pipes and install guardrail.
US 75 debris pickup, Grayson County: from Collin County line to Oklahoma State line. Watch for mobile lane closures as workers pick up debris from the roadway every Sunday and Wednesday during the nighttime.
At Bethany Road near FM 1417, Grayson County: from FM 1417 to end of state maintenance. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform base repairs on the roadway.
FM 1417, Grayson County: from US 75 to SH 11. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform base repairs on the roadway.
SH 56, Grayson County, in Southmayd at McElroy Street. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform base repairs on the roadway.
FM 1753, Grayson and Fannin County: from FM 1897 to SH 78. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
SH 34, Fannin County: from FM 64 to FM 1550. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as workers build the new SH 34 bridge over the future Lake Ralph Hall.
FM 1552, Fannin County: from SH 78 to County Road 3710. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
FM 898, Fannin County: from the Grayson County line to SH 121. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
FM 824, Fannin County: from SH 56 in Honey Grove to the Lamar County line. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
FM 1550, Fannin County: from County Road 3330 to SH 34. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
SH 121, Fannin County: from the Collin County line to SH 56. Watch for temporary daytime lane closures and shoulder closures as workers install sloped end treatments on pipes and install guardrail.
US 82, Fannin County: from SH 121 to the Lamar County Line. Watch for slow-moving construction equipment as crews work on widening US 82 from a two-lane roadway to a four-lane divided roadway. Westbound US 82 traffic has been shifted to the new pavement for the entirety of the project from the Lamar County line to SH 121. Eastbound traffic between SH 121 and the Lamar County line has been opened to two lanes. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as crews complete the remaining work.
FM 68, Fannin County: from SH 78 to SH 34. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews blade level the roadway.
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.
SH 37, Franklin County: from the elementary school to US 67. Watch for lane closures and short traffic delays as crews install sidewalk.
IH 30, Hopkins County: from Hunt County Line to Franklin County Line. Watch for lane closures and short traffic delays as crews perform concrete repair.
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.
SH 37, Red River County: from US 82 to Texas-Oklahoma state line. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews resurface the roadway.
US 271, Red River County: from SH 37 to Titus County Line. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews resurface the roadway.
FM 906, Lamar County: from FM 2648 to CR 47400. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
FM 38, Lamar County: from US 82 to US 82. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures and upgrade bridge rail and metal-beam guard fence.
FM 195, Red River County: from the Lamar County line to SH 37. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures and replace bridge rail.
FM 1487, Red River County: from FM 909 to FM 910. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews widen and rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
US 82, Red River County: from FM 1159 to the Bowie County line. Watch for work zones and drive safely through construction areas as final work is being performed.
Loop 286, Lamar County: from FM 1497 around the North Loop to FM 1507. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve guardrail and drainage structures.
FM 64, Delta County: from FM 128 to SH 1532. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
US 82, Red River County: from FM 44N to FM 44S. Watch for temporary shoulder closures while crews construct safety lighting.
Greenville Area (Hunt, Rains Counties)
Contacts: Greenville Area Office (903) 455-2363; Hunt Co. Maintenance (903) 455-2303; Rains Co. Maintenance (903) 473-2682.
Sidewalk and Curb Ramp Project (several counties): The contractor has set barricades at the Wolfe City, Texas, location. This project will improve pedestrian sidewalks and construct ADA-compliant curb ramps at these locations: Hunt County, SH 34 at Crockett Street to SH 34 at FM 816 in Wolfe City. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 903, Rains County: From US 380 to FM1560. The contractor set barricades and bulletin boards on Dec. 13. The contractor will begin preparing right-of-way on Dec. 20.
FM 275, Rains County: from SH 19 to FM 514. The contractor has set barricades and plans to begin preparing the right-of-way soon. The contractor has reworked base material and widened subgrade from Lake Fork Creek to the north for one mile, graded out and prepared for new flex base, and begun hauling base material. The contractor has demolished the bridge and will continue placing flex base on the first mile. Drill shaft installation has begun and five shafts have been completed. Please be aware of lane closures, detours, and watch for work zones and workers when traveling in this area.
SH 276, Hunt County: from FM 36 to SH 34 (Quinlan Bypass). The contractor has placed project barricades and has prepared and cleared the right-of-way. Preliminary embankment, excavation, and bridge work has begun with all shafts being completed. This work should not affect existing traffic on SH 34 or SH 276. Roadway construction affecting closures on Spur 264 has begun, this work will affect through-traffic between Meyers Avenue to County Road 2304. Weekend work is to be expected. Please be aware of lane closures and watch for work zones and workers when traveling in this area.
FM 1566, Hunt County: from FM 272 near Celeste to State Highway 34. The contractor is completing mile six of this seven-mile project and is currently reworking the subgrade and bringing in flex base, placing geogrid and compacting areas for roadway rehabilitation and widening. Please be aware of lane closures and watch for work zones and workers when traveling in this area.
Maintenance crews in Hunt County will be performing seal coat preparation on FM 816 north of Wolfe City from SH 34 to the County line. Crews will be performing potholing at various locations in Hunt County. Maintenance contract crews will be performing debris removal on I-30 and guard rail repair at various locations around Hunt County. Please be careful when traveling in these areas, watch out for workers and maintain a safe distance from work crews.
Maintenance crews in Rains County will be performing seal coat prep work on IH 30 south frontage road from CR3102 to FM 1737. Crews will be performing various sign installations, potholing, edging, and debris removal. Maintenance crews will be performing herbicide operations on various roadways. Please watch for lane closures, work zones and workers along the roadway, and maintain a safe distance from work crews.
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Lady Cats Basketball Team Opens New Year With Huge Challenge Against Gilmer on Friday at Home
The Lady Cats Basketball Team had a roller coaster 2020 winning six games and losing six. I am sure they have a New Year’s resolution for a much improved 2021. They have their first opportunity on this New Year’s Day and game day Friday (January 1). The Lady Cats will welcome the Lady Buckeyes of Gilmer to the Main Gym at Sulphur Springs High School. The schedule calls for a JV game beginning at noon with a Varsity game to follow at around 1:15 p.m. The Lady Cats will certainly have their hands full with the Lady Buckeyes. Gilmer is a perfect 12-0 so far this season according to Max Preps. Most of their wins have been very lopsided. Gilmer last won Tuesday at West Rusk, 68-9. KSST Radio will bring you the Lady Cats and Lady Buckeyes game Friday at around 1:15 p.m. with live streaming video and audio. The game will also be videotaped for replay at a later date on Channel 18 on Suddenlink Cable.
KSST is proud to be the official Wildcat and Lady Cat Station. We broadcast Sulphur Springs ISD games year round live on radio. When allowed, we also broadcast games via our YouTube channel.
Dec. 31 COVID-19 Update: 1 Fatality, 1 New Case, 6 Recoveries, 26 In COVID Unit
Texas Department of State Health Service and Hopkins County/Sulphur Springs Emergency Management’s Dec. 31 COVID-19 updates showed one new probable COVID-19 cases, six additional recoveries and one additional COVID-19 fatality for Hopkins County. While there were fewer patients in the local COVID unit Thursday the number of COVID-19 hospitalizations in Trauma Service area F hospitals was the highest reported to date. More women than men were reported to have received the vaccine as of Dec. 30, according to the Dec. 31 COVID-19 Vaccinations dashboard.
Dec. 31 COVID-19 Case Counts
Only one new probable COVID-19 case was reported for Hopkins County on Thursday. That makes 17 new probable cases so far this week, 193 new probable COVID-19 cases from Dec. 11-Dec. 31, and a total of 1,117 probable COVID-19 cases reported for Hopkins County since the state began tracking the data.
A probable COVID-19 case is determined when a person either tests positive through an antigen test or has a combination of symptoms and a known exposure to someone with COVID-19 without a more likely diagnosis.
The DSHS Dec. 31 COVID-19 Texas Case Counts dashboard also showed 1,122 confirmed COVID-19 cases on Dec. 31, four less cases than were reported on Dec. 30. DSHS did not indicate the reason for the correction. In the past, when cases have been removed from the case counts it has been due to duplications. That reduces the total number of new confirmed cases to 48 this week and 290 confirmed cases this month.
A confirmed COVID-19 case is one in which an individual receives a positive results through a molecular test that looks for the virus’s genetic material.
Combined, that’s 2,239 total COVID-19 cases reported for Hopkins County since March, including 2,053 people who have recovered from the virus. Six of those recoveries were reported on New Year’s Eve, and 1,359 from Dec. 11 to Dec. 31, although 810 were probable case recoveries added to the total on Dec. 11, when confirmed and probable case recoveries were combined. That’s 6.04 percent of the overall population in Hopkins County who have had COVID-19 cases so far this year.
The DSHS Dec. 31 COVID-19 Case Counts dashboard also showed 71 COVID-19 fatalities for Hopkins County, which means another Hopkins County resident was confirmed to have died from COVID-19. That’s 0.19 percent of the total population who have died from the virus, and a fatality rate of 3.17 percent among all Hopkins County COVID-19 cases this year.
Overall, that leaves 115 active COVID-19 cases in Hopkins County on Dec. 31, 10 less than were reported Wednesday.
COVID-19 Vaccinations
The DSHS Dec. 31 COVID-19 Vaccine Dashboard showed 134 had received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine as of 11:59 p.m. Dec. 30, that 29 more vaccinations reported for Hopkins County on Wednesday. Three vaccines were administered Dec. 13-19, 48 Dec. 20-26, and the rest were administered over the past four days.
According to the DSHS, 282,515 people in Texas have received the first dose of the vaccine. Of those, more women then men have taken the first dose of the vaccine, and more people ages 16-49 years have been vaccinated than all of the other age categories combined. In fact, almost as many women ages 16-49 have received the vaccine as all people ages 50 and older.
In Hopkins County, 61 people ages 16-49 have received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine: 40 women and 21 men. As of 11:59 p.m. Dec. 30, only 31 people ages 50-64 received the first dose of the vaccine, 25 women and 6 men; 33 people ages 65-79, 19 women and 14 men; and nine people age 80 or older, seven women and two men.
According to the dashboard, 400 doses of Moderna have been received by Hopkins County providers, 100 by the hospital, 200 by medical clinic and 100 a pharmacy.
Hospital Reports
According to HC/SSEM’s Dec. 31 COVID-19 update, the patient count in the COVID Unit at CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital-Sulphur Springs shrunk from 30 patients on Wednesday to 26 patients on Thursday, which is still higher than the 23 COVID-19 positive patients in the COVID unit on Monday and 24 on Tuesday.
COVID-19 hospitalizations across Trauma Service Area F, which encompasses most of Northeast Texas, including Sulphur Springs and CMFH-SS, peaked Dec. 31 at 191 patients. That’s 24 more COVID-19 hospitalizations than were reported Wednesday. In fact, Thursday’s total is the most patients in TSA-F hospitals in one day since the state began tracking the data.
Not surprisingly, as the COVID-19 cases rose so did the overall patients counts across TSA-F, which also reduces the number specialized equipment available at hospitals across the area.
There were 1,120 total staffed hospital beds in TSA-F on Dec. 31, three more than were reported on Wednesday. The number of staffed inpatient beds in TSA-F rose from 1,021 on Wednesday to 1,028 on Thursday. A total of 696 hospitalizations were reported on New Year’s Eve, an increase of 47 patients from the day before.
The number of available hospital beds across TSA-F surprisingly increased from 327 on Dec. 30 to 332 on Dec. 31. The number of ICU beds available got even smaller, reduced from just seven across TSA-F on Wednesday to only four on Thursday. DSHS’ Dec. 31 COVID-19 Test and Hospital Data dashboard also showed 72 ventilators available across TSA-F, three less than on Wednesday.
The rise in overall hospital numbers weren’t enough to offset the rise in COVID-19 hospitalizations, which Dec. 31 accounted for 17.05 percent of the total hospital capacity for TSA-F. In fact, TSA-F’s COVID-19 hospitalizations have been at or above the 15 percent threshold established in GA-32 as high hospital capacity for eight of the last nine days, and the last five consecutively. The capacity dipped to 14.95 percent on Dec. 26, after three consecutive days above the 15 percent high capacity threshold, then rose to 15.47 percent Sunday, 17.23 percent on Monday, 15,96 percent Tuesday, 15 Wednesday and was back up to 17.05 percent on Thursday.
COVID-19 Testing
HC/SSEM’s Dec. 31 COVID-19 update showed a total of 6,968 molecular COVID-19 tests have been conducted at hte free testing site in Sulphur Springs since it opened on Sept. 25. That means 94 additional tests were performed at the free testing site on Dec. 30, increasing the number conducted in the last three days at 128-A Jefferson Street to 355 and Dec. 1-30 to 2,437.
DSHS reported a total of 14,072 COVID-19 tests conducted for Hopkins County this year, including 11,340 molecular or viral tests, 1,152 antigen tests and 1,580 antibody tests. That’s 476 additional tests reported for Hopkins County from Dec. 29 to Dec. 30.
The free center in Sulphur Springs will be closed New Year’s Day, but will resume weekdays in January from 9 a.m.to 6 p.m. and Saturdays until 5 p.m. at 128-A Jefferson Street.
Online registration is required at www.GoGetTested.com in order to be tested at the free testing center. Testing is open to anyone regardless of address. Even children ages 3 and up can be tested, provided an adults registers and accompanies them to have the oral swab test performed. The Sulphur Springs free testing site is not a drive through location. Testing is conducted inside the building.
Individuals should refrain from eating, drinking or using tobacco products a minimum of 15-20 minutes before or testing will be delayed. Those testing will need to bring a photo ID and the number provided upon registration with them to the test location. Masks must be worn into the testing center. Testing typically takes about 5 minutes.
Nursing Home Reports
Two additional resident fatalities were reported at Sulphur Springs nursing facilities, for a total of 47 nursing home residents who have died from COVID-19 from March through Dec. 17, the most recent data available from Texas Health and Human Services.
Carriage House reported one additional resident fatality on Dec. 17, for a total of 28 resident deaths from the 78 who have tested positive for COVID-19. Five employees of Carriage House were reported to still have COVID-19. One additional resident at Carriage House also reportedly tested positive for COVID-19, giving the facility nine active resident cases on Dec. 17, according to the HHS Dec. 31 COVID-19 nursing homes report.
Rock Creek Health and Rehabilitation LLC also reported one additional COVID-19 deaths, for a total of 5 fatalities from the 51 residents who have tested positive for the virus since March. One additional resident also tested positive for COVID-19 at Rock Creek, giving the facility at total of 37 active resident cases and 18 active employee cases of COVID-19 on Dec. 17.
Sulphur Springs Health and Rehabilitation reported one additional employee had tested positive for COVID-19, giving the facility at total of three active employee cases on Dec. 17.
Sunny Springs Nursing and Rehab on Dec. 17 reported no active cases in either residents or employees.
Lady Cats and Wildcats Soccer Teams Have Fun Alumni Scrimmages Planned for Saturday
Some high school soccer programs like to supplement their preseason scrimmage schedule with Alumni Scrimmages. Both the Wildcats and Lady Cats Soccer Teams have done these in the past and plan to do so again this season. On Saturday (January 2), the Lady Cats and Wildcats JV and Varsity Teams will be taking on former players. For the Lady Cats, they get things started Saturday at Gerald Prim Stadium with their JV players against the alums at 2 p.m. The Lady Cats Varsity versus the former players will be taking place at 3:30 p.m. Later the Wildcats will take the field. Their JV 1 Team will play ex-players at 5:30 p.m. Then the Wildcats Varsity meets the alumni for a 7:15 p.m. game. The games are always fun and it’s interesting to see who may show up. Former Wildcats Soccer Coach Andy Holt, now at Frisco Wakeland, used to refer to some of the older players returning for the special scrimmage as the old dogs. Current Wildcats Coach Alexi Upton played high school soccer at Mesquite Poteet and will tell you about the night Poteet faced the Wildcats in the playoffs. Poteet got the win. That game was the famous brother in law game between Coach Holt and his former assistant Colby Peak. Both coaches married daughters of former Wildcats Football Coach Dwayne McMeans and his wife Kay. They were in a quandary as to who to cheer for so they had special shirts made supporting both teams and their grandchildren. All that to say that Coach Upton recently attended Poteet’s Alumni Scrimmage. A fun day is planned for this Saturday involving the Wildcats and Lady Cats Soccer Teams and their alumni.
KSST is proud to be the official Wildcat and Lady Cat Station. We broadcast Sulphur Springs ISD games year round live on radio. When allowed, we also broadcast games via our YouTube channel.
Tira News: Enjoying Family On Christmas, Wishing All A Happy New Year
By Jan Vaughn
Joyce Dodd reports that the Tira Methodist Church had a candlelight service on Wednesday, Dec. 23.
Yvonne Weir reports, “All of our kids and grandkids were here on Christmas Eve. We rented a bounce house and they had so much fun! Everyone left early, except Dacy’s family. Mike and Eli were hunting.” She adds, “Dustin and Natalie and their family stopped in on their way from Missouri on the 29th. Destri, Eben, and family arrived on the 30th. Lots of good family time.”
Our daughter and granddaughter, Tiffany and Jaidyn, came in from Malvern, Arkansas on Christmas Eve. Tiffany’s husband, Perry Gilbert, had to work. We went to the candlelight service at First Baptist Church in Sulphur Springs that evening. Our son, Delayne, and his friend, Edwin, from Waco, came on Christmas Day. Landon, Laiken, Rylan, Brailon, and Slaiden Joslin, and Kenden Joslin and Emma Hall were here to open gifts and enjoy Christmas lunch with us.
Morgan Joslin stayed in Tulsa. He was preparing for his commercial pilot exam on Sunday (which he passed!). He visited his dad, Malcolm, and his family on Tuesday, Dec. 29, and came to see us on Wednesday, the 30th.
Grace Vaughn had several visits from family members during Christmas week. Jim and Sandra Vaughn, of Broken Bow, Oklahoma, came on Sunday and had lunch with us.
I’m sure many families had some kind of Christmas activity, even if smaller than usual. I hope to have more to report next week. Happy New Year!
I always need and appreciate input from my friends to help keep me informed of news in our community. If you have any news pertaining to Tira residents, past or present, please contact me, Jan Vaughn, at 903-438-6688 or [email protected].
Recently Elected, Appointed Hopkins County Officials To Be Sworn In Jan. 1
Recently elected and appointed Hopkins County officials are to be sworn in Jan. 1 during a special meeting of Hopkins County Commissioners Court.
Once the oath of office is administered to the elected and appointed officials the Commissioners Court will then be asked to consider approving the bonds for those individuals.
Taking the oath for the first time will be John Brian Beadle as Constable for Precinct 2. After Precinct 2 Constable Bill Allan announced he would not be seeking another term in office, both Beadle and Charles Humphries sought the Republican Party nomination for the office in the March Primary Election. Beadle edged ahead of Charles Humphries with 51.45 percent of the Republican ballots. There was no Democratic candidate for Precinct 2 Constable for Beadle to face in the Nov. 3, 2020, General Election.
Among the list of local and district officials reelected to office on Nov. 3 were:
- 8th Judicial District Judge Eddie Northcutt
- Precinct 1 Commissioner Mickey Barker
- Precinct 3 Commissioner Wade Bartley
- Sheriff Lewis Tatum
- Precinct 1Constable Norman Colyer
- County Attorney Dustanna Hyde Rabe
- Tax Assessor-Collector Debbie Pogue Mitchell
- 8th Judicial District Attorney William Ramsay
- Auditor Shannah Aulsbrook
Mitchell is scheduled to be sworn in for both the county and state. Ramsay and Aulsbrook are slated to be sworn in elsewhere, according to the County Judge’s Office.
The swearing in and Commissioners Court meeting are scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 1, 2021 in the District Courtroom on the second floor of Hopkins County Courthouse, located at 118 Church Street in, Sulphur Springs.
