April 1, 2016 LUFKIN – Texas Department of Transportation commissioners on Thursday approved 51 new construction projects for the state that total more than $161.7 million, with two projects located in the Lufkin District.
New construction projects that total more than $6.4 million were approved for Angelina and Shelby counties. The projects are designed to TxDOT safety standards and once completed will provide better maneuverability.
In Shelby County, a $5.7 million project was approved for reconstruction and widening on FM 417. Drewery Construction Company, located in Nacogdoches, will work from SH 87 to FM 139 for a length of 11.2 miles. Work is expected to take about 20 months to complete with a start date expected in the summer, weather permitting.
In Angelina County, a $687,634 construction project was approved for FM 3439 (Spence Street) in Lufkin. Pinto Construction Company located in Nacogdoches, contractor for the project, will work from US 59 to US 69/SL 287 to widen and rehabilitate the roadway. Lanes of travel will be widened by 1-foot with the addition of 3-foot shoulders. Once work begins, the project is expected to complete in about five months, weather permitting.
“TxDOT is dedicated to improving mobility and safety as well as providing improved connectivity,” said Rhonda Oaks, public information officer for the Lufkin District. “During the SL 287 loop project in Lufkin, Spence Street was heavily traveled and this will provide needed improvements on that roadway. The Shelby County project will widen FM 417, which is also a heavily traveled area. The completion of these projects will allow for future growth and improved access.”
Motorists are advised to obey all construction signage and respect barricades throughout these projects. Prepare for delays, reduce speed and be alert to workers and moving equipment on and near the roadway. Remember, traffic fines double when workers are present.
For more information, contact TxDOT Rhonda.Oaks@txdot.gov or (936) 633-4395.
