October 3, 2017 Lufkin – TxDOT will begin construction next week on SL 287/North Medford Drive in Lufkin to redesign the crossovers near the Ellen Trout Zoo and the George H. Henderson Exposition Center.
Angelina County Maintenance crews will begin reconstructing the turn lanes on Monday, weather permitting. Work will include the partial closure of crossovers at MLK Drive near Ellen Trout Zoo and further south near Holmes Smokehouse Foods. Both crossovers will be modified to westbound left turns only. The crossover between the George H. Henderson Exposition Center and Brookshire Brothers Corporate Office will be removed.
“This was a decision that was made after discussions with the city and area business owners,” said Rhonda Oaks, Lufkin District public information officer. “This solution will enhance safety and create a secure and more controlled access for north and southbound traffic in this area.”
Once work is completed, vehicles will no longer be able to cross completely over SL 287 to enter Ellen Trout Zoo, the George H. Henderson Exposition Center or Brookshire Brothers Corporate Office. The city is scheduled to install signs directing southbound traffic to the U-turn bridge at the newly constructed US 59 interchange. Northbound traffic may also travel to the turn-around at SL 287/Kurth Drive or use the newly constructed dedicated left turns. The project will include delineation and/or raised islands and is expected to be completed in about four to six weeks.
As this work begins, motorists are asked to slow down and be cautious and alert to workers and moving equipment. For more information on projects and closures statewide, visit drivetexas.org. For more information on this project and others in the Lufkin District, contact Rhonda.Oaks@txdot.gov or (936) 633-4395.
