TEXAS LAWMAKERS TO STUDY IMPACT OF CLASSROOM TECHNOLOGY
March 31, 2026 – AUSTIN — Texas lawmakers are preparing to take a closer look at how increasing use of technology in classrooms is affecting student learning ahead of the 2027 legislative session.
House Speaker Dustin Burrows has directed two committees to examine the role of digital devices in education, including whether heavy reliance on screens is helping or hindering academic performance. The review comes as more schools across Texas incorporate laptops, tablets and online platforms into daily instruction.
Supporters of classroom technology argue that digital tools can expand access to information, personalize learning and prepare students for a modern workforce. However, critics say the rapid shift toward screen-based learning may be doing more harm than good.
The Texas Public Policy Foundation has labeled the trend the “edtech lie,” arguing that technology has been oversold without clear evidence of improved outcomes. Concerns include reduced attention spans, weaker reading comprehension and less critical thinking among students.
When people use the term “edtech lie,” they’re usually pointing to a few key concerns:
- Lower academic performance: Some studies and international examples (like Sweden) suggest heavy screen use can correlate with declines in reading comprehension and focus.
- Distraction over engagement: Devices can split attention—students may appear engaged but are often multitasking or passively consuming content.
- Weaker foundational skills: Overreliance on digital tools may reduce handwriting, deep reading, and problem-solving practice.
- One-size-fits-all thinking: Schools adopted technology broadly without strong evidence it works equally well across subjects, ages, or student needs.
International examples are also influencing the debate. Sweden, which spent years transitioning away from traditional textbooks in favor of digital devices, has reversed course after seeing declines in reading performance. The country is now investing more than $100 million to reintroduce physical textbooks in classrooms.
In Texas, one study found that about 20 percent of instructional time is now spent on school-issued devices, highlighting how deeply technology has become embedded in education.
Lawmakers say the goal of the upcoming review is not to eliminate technology, but to find the right balance. As schools continue to evolve, the question remains whether screens should lead instruction—or simply support it.
Texas State Parks Police Officers Earn Awards
March 31, 2026 – AUSTIN — Several Texas State Parks Police Officers received awards from the Park Law Enforcement Association (PLEA) and were recognized at the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission Meeting on Thursday.
Lifetime Achievement Award — Chief Wes Masur
Chief Wes Masur was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award from PLEA, being recognized for a career of more than 30 years reflecting unwavering dedication, innovation and commitment to service. Masur has served as Chief of Texas State Park Police for over two decades, leading approximately 150 officers and serving more than 85 State Parks with more than 9.6 million visitors per year.
“Chief Masur’s leadership has been visionary and transformative,” said PLEA’s Executive Director Dale Steele. “He led a complete organizational restructure, secured Schedule C pay status for his officers, modernized equipment and technology, strengthened recruitment and training standards, and elevated professionalism across the agency. Under his guidance, officers gained access to premier training opportunities and advanced tools necessary for modern law enforcement.”
PLEA Life Saving Award — Sergeant Lynn Kuenstler and Officer Gary Carter
Texas State Park’s Police Sergeant Lynn Kuenstler and Officer Gary Carter were honored with PLEA’s Life Saving Award.
On July 11, 2025, Officer Carter responded to a medical emergency while on patrol in Garner State Park. He found an unresponsive park visitor in the Pecan Grove camping loop and worked to remove them from the vehicle and immediately began administering CPR. Sergeant Kuenstler arrived on scene with oxygen and an AED, allowing the officers to continue life-saving measures as a team, ultimately restoring responsiveness to the visitor. They later learned that the visitor had slowly lost vision, complained of chest pain and was unresponsive for two minutes before they arrived.
PLEA Life Saving Award — Sergeant Neal Kocurek and Officer Ryan “Price” Blalock
Sergeant Neal Kocurek and Officer Ryan “Price” Blalock also earned the Life Saving Award from PLEA.
Near Sheldon Lake State Park on Oct. 31, 2025, Officer Blalock observed heavy black smoke and alerted Sergeant Kocurek before finding a vehicle partially aflame with an 18-year-old driver trapped inside. Blalock entered the vehicle to attempt a rescue, with the driver pinned beneath the dashboard with his leg impaled. Kocurek arrived and joined in the effort. The officers retrieved fire extinguishers and worked to suppress the fire which was moving into the passenger compartment. The Sheldon Fire Department arrived, and being former firefighters themselves, the officers assisted with the charging line and provided equipment transport until the man was extricated and airlifted to a trauma center.
Throughout the rescue, both Officer Blalock and Sergeant Kocurek were exposed to heavy smoke, toxic fumes, extinguisher powder and danger of exploding vehicle components, all without the aid of breathing apparatus or respirator protection. Both required decontamination and fully recovered, while the victim suffered no burns and was treated for the physical trauma to his body.
PAXTON SUES DENTAL PROVIDERS, MARKETERS OVER ALLEGED MEDICAID FRAUD SCHEME
MARCH 31, 2026 – AUSTIN — Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against multiple dental providers and marketing groups accused of orchestrating a scheme to defraud Texas Medicaid by performing medically unnecessary procedures on patients.
According to the lawsuit, the providers allegedly partnered with so-called “marketer defendants” who targeted Medicaid recipients—often low-income families—by offering incentives such as gift cards to become patients. Those marketers then directed individuals through a network of clinics, sometimes moving them between locations to increase billing opportunities.
Once patients were recruited, the providers are accused of performing unnecessary dental procedures, including some considered high-risk, and billing Medicaid for services that were not medically justified. State officials say the alleged scheme not only wasted taxpayer dollars but also placed vulnerable patients, including children, at risk.
The case is being brought under the Texas Health Care Program Fraud Prevention Act, which prohibits false claims, kickbacks and other fraudulent practices involving Medicaid services. The Attorney General’s office is seeking restitution, civil penalties and additional remedies.
“It is malicious and unacceptable that these providers were performing dangerous, medically unnecessary procedures on patients in order to scam our Medicaid system,” Paxton said.
Medicaid fraud has been an ongoing concern in Texas, particularly in the healthcare sector, where past enforcement actions have targeted billing schemes, unlawful referrals and unnecessary treatments. The state has increased oversight in recent years through its Healthcare Program Enforcement Division, which works to identify and prosecute fraud involving public funds.
The lawsuit was initially filed under seal but has since been unsealed, allowing more details to become public. Officials say the case underscores continued efforts to protect both taxpayer resources and patient safety across Texas.
PAXTON PROPOSES RULES TO ENFORCE BAN ON FOREIGN ADVERSARIES OWNING TEXAS LAND
March 30, 2026 – AUSTIN — Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has unveiled proposed rules to enforce a new state law restricting land ownership by individuals and entities tied to designated foreign adversaries, including China, Russia, Iran and North Korea.
The proposal begins the formal rulemaking process for Senate Bill 17, passed during the 89th Texas Legislature and in effect since September 1, 2025. The law was designed to address national security concerns by limiting foreign control of Texas land, particularly near critical infrastructure and military installations.
Paxton’s office submitted the rules to the Secretary of State on March 16, with publication in the Texas Register on March 27. A public comment period is now underway before the rules can be finalized.
The proposed framework outlines how the Office of the Attorney General will investigate and enforce potential violations. It defines key terms within the law and establishes procedures for civil investigative demands, reporting requirements and compliance.
Under the rules, professionals involved in real estate transactions—including lenders, title companies, appraisers and real estate agents—would be required to report suspected violations to the Attorney General’s office. Complaints must be submitted electronically or by mail through designated channels.
The rules also include confidentiality provisions, ensuring that complaints and investigative materials are not publicly disclosed unless required by law.
Supporters say the law and proposed rules are part of a broader effort across several states to limit foreign influence over land and resources. Critics have raised concerns about enforcement challenges and the potential impact on legitimate investment.
“My office will use every tool available to prevent our nation’s enemies from gaining a foothold on Texas soil,” Paxton said.
State officials say the rules will provide clearer guidance as Texas moves to fully implement the land ownership restrictions.
Vehicle Pursuit Leads to Felony Charges
March 30, 2026 – Local Hopkins County Law Enforcement officers joined in an effort to assist Greenville PD in a vehicle chase as a suspect vehicle entered Hopkins County.
The 2026 Nissan Pickup did not want to stop and rammed one of the Hopkins County vehicles and sped off attempting to evade officers at speeds reaching 115mph. Local law enforcement, in an effort to protect other drivers, flattened the rear tires of the fleeing vehicle as it was attempting to travel west bound in the east bound lanes of Interstate Highway 30. The fleeing vehicle was undeterred but now at a much slower speed and continued to flee at 20mph crossing over to the South Service Road of I-30. The pickup finally gave up in the parking lot of 7Star Travel Center and a felony take down was initiated. Once Pedro Sosa, age 30, of Sulphur Springs was secured two children (ages 6 and 3) were located in the front seat of the vehicle and were not secured in car seats. Sosa was found to have signs of intoxication so was charged with the enhanced charge of DWI w/ child passenger under 15 years of age. An unopened package contaning pre-rolled THC cigarettes weighing approximately 4.2 grams was located inside the vehicle adding to the charges. Sosa was also charged with Evading Arrest and Assault of Public Servant (ramming his vehicle).
Four warrants from Rockwall County were also levied against Sosa for similar charges (DWI, Evading Arrest, and 2-Endangering Child counts). The children were transported from the scene by EMS as Sosa was transported to the Hopkins County Jail where he remains awaiting his bond to be set on the multiple felony charges.
Even Girl Scout Cookie Sales Effected this Year
March 29, 2026 – As cookie season winds down, some Girl Scout troops are finding themselves with leftover inventory, reflecting a shift in buying habits driven by higher prices and increased competition.
Boxes that once sold quickly are now moving more slowly, with some customers pointing to rising costs. In recent years, prices have climbed to around $5 to $7 per box in many areas, prompting comparisons to cheaper store-brand alternatives that mimic popular flavors like Thin Mints and Samoas.
Girl Scout troops typically earn between $0.80 and $0.95 per box sold, depending on their total sales volume and local council, with an additional $0.10 possible if they opt out of rewards.
Shoppers are also noticing what some describe as “shrinkflation,” with fewer cookies per package despite higher prices. That combination has led budget-conscious consumers to cut back or skip purchases altogether.
At the same time, grocery stores now offer a growing number of lower-cost “knockoff” versions year-round, reducing the urgency to stock up during the limited Girl Scout sales window.
Despite the slowdown, troop leaders emphasize that cookie sales remain a key fundraiser, helping cover costs for activities, travel and community service projects.
Some community members suggest an alternative: donating directly to local troops. The idea allows supporters to contribute financially without purchasing cookies, appealing to those looking to avoid extra calories while still backing the program.
Leaders say whether through purchases or donations, community support remains critical to helping scouts meet their goals.
Wildcats Took on the North Lamar Panthers in Baseball Action March 24th
March 29, 2026 – The Sulphur Springs, Texas, High School Wildcats took on the North Lamar Panthers in baseball action March 24, 2026. The game was played at Wildcat Park in Sulphur Springs, Texas. Below is KSST/Cable Channel 18’s coverage of this game. KSST’s Sports Director, John Mark Dempsey, called Play by Play, and Tony Flipping provided Color Commentary.
Paris District Road Report for March 30, 2026
March 27, 2026 – 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 March 30, 2026. These schedules are subject to change due to weather conditions, equipment failure or other unforeseen issues. Motorists are advised to remain alert and pay special attention to all signs, barricades, and traffic controls, and reduce their speed as they approach and travel through work zones. They should also avoid distractions such as cell phones, eating, drinking, or car audio or navigation systems.
Safety Message: Flash Floods
Flash flooding is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in Texas. If you encounter a flooded road, “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
- Never walk, swim, or drive through still or moving flood waters. The water may be hiding dangers such as debris, tree branches, power lines, or damage to the road. As little as six inches of fast-moving water can cause motorists to lose control of their vehicle, even a pickup truck or SUV.
- Stay informed about weather conditions when you are driving.
- Be especially careful driving at night when it can be harder to see flood dangers.
- If your vehicle stalls in deep water, leave it and move to higher ground if you can do so safely.
Here’s the law
- Never drive around barriers blocking low water crossings or flooded roadways. Penalties include a fine of up to $2,000 and/or up to 180 days in jail.
- Tampering with roadway warning signs or barriers is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, up to two years in jail, or both.
Sherman Area (Fannin, Grayson Counties)
Contacts: Sherman Area Office (903) 892-6529; Grayson Co. Maintenance (903) 893-8831; Fannin Co. Maintenance (903) 583-7566.
Grayson County:
US 75, from the Collin County Line to FM 902. This project will widen the US 75 mainlanes from the Collin County Line to FM 902 to six lanes. The project will also reconstruct the bridge at County Line Road and construct new u-turn bridges in Van Alstyne near Simmons Loop and in Howe south of Hall Cemetery Road. This project will convert the frontage roads from two-way operation to one-way operation. Two lanes on the US 75 main lanes will remain open in each direction during the daytime hours with occasional lane closures during the nighttime period. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads during construction. A reduced speed limit of 65 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project.
The frontage roads in Van Alstyne and Howe on both the east and west sides of US 75 from County Line Road (CR 375/Panther Parkway) to Haning St. are one-way roads. The pavement work is completed, and both lanes of the frontage roads are open to traffic except at Bear Rd and Hall Cemetery Rd. The sections at Bear Rd and Hall Cemetery Rd. will have only one lane open. There will be occasional lane closures to install work zone striping & other remaining works. 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.
The US 75 frontage roads in Howe were converted to one-way traffic on February 04. This one-way conversion happened on both the east and west sides of US 75 from Hanning St to FM 902. Lane closures will be in place during the conversion 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.
Northbound left lane and southbound right lane on US 75 will be closed at the following locations, dates and times
- US 75 northbound left lane between Blyth Rd and Haning Street to be closed on April 01 from 9:00 pm to April 02, 5:00 am.
- US 75 southbound right lane between Blyth Rd and Haning Street to be closed on April 01 from 9:00 pm to April 02, 5:00 am.
- US 75 northbound left lane between Blyth Rd and Haning Street to be closed on April 02 from 8:00 pm to April 03, 5:00 am.
- US 75 southbound right lane between Blyth Rd and Haning Street to be closed on April 02 from 8:00 pm to April 3, 5:00 am.
These closures are needed to safely perform the boring activities on the project. Closing these lanes will allow the contractor to perform the installation of conduits under the roadway in a safe manner. Message boards will be placed ahead of the work location to alert drivers.
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-turn at the US 82 frontage road intersection travelling southbound to northbound is closed to traffic to allow crews to continue work on a portion of the new US 75 main lane 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.
US 75 southbound exit ramp to Loy Lake (Sherman) is scheduled to be opened March 29, 30 or 31. This schedule depends on weather or mechanical/material issues.
US 75 southbound entrance ramp from FM 691 is scheduled to be opened March 29, 30 or 31. This schedule depends on weather or mechanical/material issues.
US 75 northbound exit ramp to Lamberth Rd. (Exit 63) will be closed from August 20 to April 26. This is a long-term closure, and drivers should use the adjacent exits.
Lamberth Dr. Eastbound and westbound to be closed from January 17 to September 2026.
US 75 southbound entrance ramp from US 82 is closed.
US 75 main lanes and frontage roads at various locations will be closed for short duration during daytime and nighttime due to mobile operations from March 09 to March 31. These closures are short duration closures that will happen between 8:00 am and 6:00 pm or between 8:00 pm and 5:00 am.
US 75 northbound frontage road between Loy Lake Rd (Sherman) and FM 691 will be closed from March 30, 2026, at 7:00 am to February 26, 2027. This is a long-term full closure.
The north-south and south-north U-Turn at the frontage roads of US 75 and US 82 intersection will be fully closed during the day from March 01 to March 31 from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
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 connecting northbound and southbound frontage roads are being built at the new Spur 503 bridge. Westbound traffic will travel to the intersection of Spur 503 and the northbound frontage road and will go north on the new frontage road to access northbound US 75. Motorists wishing to go south will follow the northbound frontage road to Loy Lake Rd, and take the U-turn and continue south until the next available entrance ramp to southbound US 75.
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.
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 from Sunday night through Friday morning during the overnight period. Occasional lane closures will be present at night for crews to overlay the roadway with hotmix. Lane closures will begin at 7:30 pm at night and should be reopened to traffic by 6 a.m.
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.
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.
Southmayd Rd at Elba Creek, The bridge at Elba Creek was closed beginning June 25. The bridge replacement is completed and opened to traffic on December 03. Construction crews will continue working on the remaining minor items and motorists are requested to slow down as they drive through the work zone.
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.
Prescott Rd, Southmayd. Contractor will be performing bridge replacement work on the Prescott Road bridge located between Johnny Watson Road and Jelley Road in Grayson County. The bridge on Prescott Road was closed in both directions on December 01. The bridge will remain closed until March 2026. Road closure signs will be installed on the roads leading to the project to inform drivers. Drivers can use Johnny Watson Road, Jelley Road and Southmayd Road as an alternate route.
Calf Creek Ln. Contractor will be performing bridge replacement work on Calf Creek Ln bridge located at Calf Creek. The bridge will be closed in both directions beginning March 10, 2026, and will remain closed until July 2026. Road closure signs are installed on the roads leading to the project to inform drivers. Drivers can use Jim Lamb Rd and Whitney Rd. as an alternate route.
US 75 from Ray Bridge to Oklahoma State line. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform seal coat preparation work on the north and southbound frontage roads. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
US 82 mainlanes from FM 901 to FM 1417 (west side of Sherman): Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform seal coat preparation 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 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 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 occasional daily lane closures through the construction zone.
SH 56 at Hutchins Creek and at Caney Creek. Watch for lane closures as crews perform bridge repair work. Motorists should expect delays as temporary traffic signals direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 78 from FM 273 to Oklahoma State line: Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work 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 completed 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 2105. Contractor will be performing bridge replacement work on CR 2105 bridge located at Robert Springs Tributary. The bridge is closed in both directions beginning March 05, 2026, and will remain closed until July 2026. Road closure signs are installed on the roads leading to the project to inform drivers. Drivers can use CR 2110 and CR 2100 as an alternate route.
CR 2410 at Tanyard Creek. Contractor will be performing bridge replacement work on the CR 2410 bridge located at Tanyard Creek. The bridge is closed in both directions beginning January 22, 2026, and will remain closed until May 2026. Road closure signs are installed on the roads leading to the project to inform drivers. Drivers can use FM 100 and FM 2216 as an alternate route.
SH 34. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform seal coat preparation/Hot Mix Asphalt work on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 2216. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform seal coat preparation/Hot Mix Asphalt work on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 78. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform ditch work to address drainage issues along the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Various locations in Fannin County. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform herbicide application on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Various locations in Fannin County. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform sign work, delineation work & mailbox installation along 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 grading ditches. Watch for construction vehicles near roadway.
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.
Hopkins County: SH 19 at SH 11. Crews will be working on the pavement joints in the intersection. There will be daily lane closures during the repair process.
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:
BU 271 B, from 18th Street SE to 34th Street SE. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalks 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 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.
1st ST SW & South Main St., Lamar County: from Hearne St. in Paris to Kaufman ST. in Paris. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install a bike lane and perform pavement and curb repairs.
FM 79, at Little Creek. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews perform bridge maintenance.
BU 82 H (Bonham St.), from Loop 286 to 11th Street NW. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalk on the north and south sides of the roadway.
Delta County:
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.
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.
Northeast Texas Trail, from Annona East City Limits to Bowie County Line. 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 currently 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.
FM 2642, from FM 35 to SH 66. The contractor has set work zone signs and barricades. Traffic on north end of project (SH 66 to I-30) is now switched to new phase. Please slow down, 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 setting signs and mailboxes. 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 now excavating in the south bound shoulder. Flagger operations in place while work is being performed near FM 751. Expect delays in the work zone. 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. Final pavement surface is complete. Pavement marking operations will continue. Flagging will be present while work is being performed. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Interchange Improvements, from Monte Stratton to FM 1903. Barricades and advance warning signs are in place. Expect one lane closures and rolling closures at night for pavement repairs. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Improvements, from CR2511 to FM 36. Temp wall work is ongoing. Contractor is working in the median and on frontage roads. Expect one lane closures and rolling closures at night. 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 overlay on FM 36 from FM 2194 to FM 1562. Base repairs will be performed on FM 903 from US 69 to various locations. Flaggers will be present at both locations. Crew will be performing bridge maintenance work in various locations. Maintenance contractors will be performing guardrail repairs at various locations. Work will be performed on SH 66 at FM 36 to add a Right Turn Lane.
Rains County maintenance section will be performing roadway prep work on FM 275 from Hopkins County Line to FM 514. Base repair will be performed on FM 47 from SH 276 to Van Zandt County Line. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
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Bible Way Light House Church Easter Sunday Service April 5th at 11:00am
March 27, 2026 – Bible Way Light House Church of Sulphur Springs, Texas, will hold Easter Sunday Service Sunday, April 5, 2026, with Adult Sunday School beginning at 10:00am, and a Worship Service beginning at 11:00am. Everyone is welcome. You can expect food, fellowship, and an Easter Egg hunt following the service. The church is located at 241 County road 4591, Sulphur Springs, Texas, 75482.
Hopkins County Genealogical Society Upcoming Seminar Early Bird Registration
March 27, 2026 – Below is the flyer for The Hopkins County Genealogical Society annual genealogy seminar on June 20, 2026. Following the “save the date” announcement, they invite you to register now to take advantage of their “Early Bird” rates.
Early registrations are greatly appreciated as they help the Genealogical Society determine the necessary venue size. Knowing the attendance numbers early allows the Genealogical Society to decide whether to host the event at the library or move to a larger nearby location. It also ensures they provide sufficient refreshments for those attending in person. Please note that a virtual attendance option is also available.
The featured speaker, Ari Wilkins, is highly regarded, and The Genealogical Society anticipates a significant turnout. They look forward to receiving your registration soon.
