Earth Kind Gardening By Master Gardener Ronnie Wilson
July 8, 2025 – The Texas A&M Agrilife Extension has developed the EarthKind program to teach and inform gardeners about gardening practices that are environmentally friendly. Simply explained, the EarthKind system starts with a complete and totally organic plan, and then uses a gradual step-by-step increase in the use of non-organic practices if the need or situation demands.
Many gardeners, both new and experienced, want to grow things organically, and being 100% organic is a wonderful goal. However, organic gardening is not a “plant it and forget it” endeavor. Successful organic gardening requires timely application of products and/or maintenance, and sometimes waiting a day can be disastrous. Organic practices are designed to prohibit or minimize problems in the garden, and when a problem arises, if not treated quickly, the plant suffers. Organic products use chemicals and fertilizers that are designed to be less toxic than non-organic products in order to be more friendly to our environment. The EarthKind program teaches gardeners to have success with the how, when, what, and why of organic gardening.
One example of the EarthKind approach is the treatment of insect infestations. Before insect pests are present, it is helpful to place “sacrificial” plants among or close to the desirable plants that will attract the insects, with the idea the insects will feed on them rather than the desirable plant. For example, marigolds are a diversion plant when growing tomatoes, and planting lemon grass in the garden can help repel some invaders.
Before using strong chemical pesticides, hand-picking the pests can be helpful. Squash bugs can be somewhat controlled by hand-picking, along with using simple traps. Depending on your plant and the pest to be controlled, spraying your desirable plants with a mixture of water, baking soda, and vinegar can help control many insect pests.
The EarthKind system does provide for the use of non-organic chemicals, but only after all the organic solutions have been tried. EarthKind gardening also includes information on planning, pest management, composting, fertilization, watering, and many other topics of interest to gardeners. Explore the websites and have a happy, EarthKind garden!!
https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/earthkind
https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/earthkind/training/
Sunflowers By Master Gardener Ronnie Wilson
July 8, 2025 – Is there any plant better suited to represent summer than the sunflower? These magnificent giants with their large, colorful flowers defy the heat and bring smiles to everyone who sees them.
An extremely hardy plant, sunflowers have been around in the USA for over a thousand years, back to the time of the Cahokia mound builders in the St.Louis area. Sunflowers are the only native major field crop grown today, and commercial crop acreage averages 2 million acres a year.
As a food crop, sunflower demand exploded in the 1970s, due to European demand for sunflower oil. Sunflower seeds contain 40-45% of their weight in oil. This oil is the largest market for sunflowers in the world.
In addition to being a human food source (sunflower seeds, sunflower oil), sunflowers have many other uses. Their flowers feed pollinators, the seeds feed song birds, the seed hulls are used as silage, and the plant’s deep taproot can help improve tight soils.
Sunflowers grow in many types of soils, but they do best in coarse, moisture-limited soil, and are fairly easy to grow in Hopkins County. In the spring, plant the seeds 1 inch deep in lightly tilled soil, and enjoy a gorgeous, majestic display of color all summer long!
Library Director Hope Cain Dropped by for a Second Cup Of Coffee
July 8, 2025 – Sulphur Springs Public Library’s Director, Hope Cain, dropped by for a Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey. John Mark and Hope chatted about Family Game Night at the Library, the most popular books at the library this year so far, the next Lone Star Legal Aid session being held July 21st, 2025, and so much more. Be sure to take a look at this episode and learn what your Sulphur Springs Public Library has been busy doing!
What Information In The Blackmon Murder Case Led To An Arrest?
Everything centers on a sophisticated firearm, and a once missing barrel.
July 8, 2025 – The recent break in the Blackmon murder case centers on a once missing gun part.
The caliber of weapon used to kill Geraldine Blackmon in 1996 has been known since her death. It was a very common caliber known as .308. Many sporting rifles fire that cartridge.
The .308 Winchester is a popular, versatile rifle cartridge known for its use in hunting, target shooting, and military applications. It’s often considered a “do-it-all” cartridge due to its balance of power, accuracy, and availability.
During the 1996 investigation, Magness was the prime suspect. He was questioned and his home searched. During that initial search, a sophisticated and quite uncommon firearm was found in his possession. That gun featured interchangeable barrels for firing several different calibers. One would use the same trigger group, stock etc, and simply ‘swap’ other barrels on as desired.
Most, but not all of the ‘kit’ was located. Several barrels were found, but the .308 barrel was mysteriously absent. The barrel in the ‘set’ capable of firing the same caliber as the murder weapon had simply vanished.
That missing piece is what prevented Magness from being charged in 1996. In essence, there was no ‘murder weapon’.
The case is reopened
When the case was reopened, Investigators Shea Shaw and Chris Bauman worked with several members of law enforcement. It took the efforts of many to help bring this cold case back to light. The team included Cherry Rice, the original lead investigator. Dennis Findley who worked the case while Hopkins County Sheriff. Texas Rangers Warren Williamson and David Stewart.
The team determined that locating and re-interviewing Magness was critical. Magness was found to be living about 90 minutes away in Midlothian, TX
Warrants obtained and served
With with help of the Texas Rangers, a search warrant for the accused’s home was served. During that search, a bare .308 barrel was found.
A forensic match was attempted and the 1996 bullet and the 2025 barrel’s rifling matched perfectly. Law Enforcement confirmed the barrel was used to fire the fatal shot in 1996.
An arrest warrant for murder was served and Magness was arrested and transported to Hopkins County Texas.
Magness in currently in custody in the Hopkins County Jail. He is charged with murder, and bond is set at $1,000,000.
Break In The Blackmon Cold Case Comes At Last
The murder of Geradline Blackmon was cold for decades, now the missing piece in the case may have been found.
July 8, 2025 – Law Enforcement gathered at the Hopkins County Law Enforcement Center today to welcome William Doyle Magness back to Sulphur Springs, TX.
Magness has officially been charged with the 1996 murder of Blackmon. Magness was living in Midlothian, TX at the time of his arrest. He was arrested without incident.
During his walk into the Hopkins County Jail, Magness asserts his innocence. He is also introduce to the investigators who worked in case in 1996.
CONSUMER ALERT: Attorney General Ken Paxton is Warning Texans to be Aware of Scammers Amid the Catastrophic Flooding in Texas
Attorney General Ken Paxton issued a consumer alert to protect Texans against bad actors looking to take advantage of the devastating flooding in Texas by perpetrating scams.
“There are no words for how wrong it is that morally bankrupt people are trying to take advantage of Texans by using this tragedy to scam them. Anyone engaging in these scams will face the full force of the law, and I will not rest until they are brought to justice,” said Attorney General Paxton. “I will continue to work to defend those impacted by this tragedy and also urge everyone to join me in praying for those affected by this terrible natural disaster.”
Texans harmed by this devastating flooding should be wary of bad actors trying to take advantage of this tragedy and be wary of anyone seeking monetary funds from them. To that end, the Office of the Attorney General would like to caution everyone in any area affected by storms and flooding to be extremely careful with people offering to help you rebuild or reconstruct.
Scams involving contractors failing to perform work they were paid to do are not uncommon following such tragic disasters. Flood victims are reminded to be wary of contractors from out of the area, don’t rush into signing a contract, ask for references, and check with the Better Business Bureau to ensure they’re working with a trustworthy business. In addition, under state law, once the governor issues a disaster declaration, vendors are prohibited from charging exorbitant prices for necessities during and after the crisis.
Governor Greg Abbott has declared a state of disaster in the following Texas Counties: Bandera, Bexar, Burnet, Caldwell, Coke, Comal, Concho, Gillespie, Guadalupe, Kendall, Kerr, Kimble, Llano, Mason, McCulloch, Menard, Reeves, San Saba, Tom Green, Travis, and Williamson.
For additional guidance to help spot disaster scams, visit the Attorney General’s website here.
Texans in affected counties who believe they have been scammed or encountered price gouging should call the Office of the Attorney General’s toll-free complaint line at 1-800-621-0508 or file an online complaint here.
Hopkins County Genealogical Society’s Genealogy Lock-In is July 26th
July 7, 2025 – The Hopkins County Genealogical Society’s next Genealogy Lock-In is scheduled for Saturday, July 26th, 2025. The event will begin at 10:00am. Register for after-hours genealogy research with exclusive access to data bases, books, and much more. Call 903-885-8523, or email [email protected], or stop by 611 North Davis Street, Sulphur Springs, Texas. Cost is a $15 donation per person. There will be a complementary lite supper and door prizes.
Governor Abbott Provides Update On State’s Ongoing Response To Severe Flooding In Texas
Urges Texans To Remain Weather Aware As Heavy Rain Continues
Governor Greg Abbott today held a press conference at the State Operations Center (SOC) in Austin to provide an update on the state’s ongoing response to severe flooding impacting Texas. The Governor also urged Texans to remain weather aware as potential heavy rain may continue in areas including the Big Country, Concho Valley, Central Texas, and Kerr County.
“I had the opportunity yesterday to visit Camp Mystic to see firsthand what happened there,” said Governor Abbott. “It was nothing short of horrific. We’re here in Austin today because there have been lives lost in this greater region. We are broadening the area that we’re focused on, but we are not reducing our focus in the Kerrville area. There are dangers over the next 24-48 hours that could pose public safety threats. If there’s any water on the road, the most important thing you can do is to protect your lives. Remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown. Texas continues our 24/7 operations to search for anybody who was affected by these deadly storms.”
Watch the Governor’s full press conference here.
The Governor was joined by Texas Division of Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd, Texas Department of Public Safety Colonel Freeman Martin, Adjutant General of Texas Major General Thomas Suelzer, Lower Colorado River Authority General Manager Phil Wilson, and other state officials.
During the press conference, Governor Abbott thanked President Donald Trump for swiftly approving a Major Disaster Declaration. He also commended U.S. Department of Homeland Secretary Kristi Noem for visiting Kerr County yesterday to get critical updates from local officials and first responders so the federal government can keep providing all necessary resources to assist in response and recovery efforts.
Additionally, Governor Abbott emphasized the need to be cautious as heavy rainfall that could lead to potential flash flooding is expected in large parts of Texas. Texans are encouraged to remain weather aware, heed the guidance of state and local officials, and regularly monitor road conditions at DriveTexas.org.
The State of Texas has deployed over 1,500 personnel and more than 925 vehicles and equipment assets. More than 20 state agencies are currently responding to flooding threats across the state.
At the Governor’s direction, the following resources remain engaged and available to support local flood response and recovery operations:
- Texas Division of Emergency Management: The State of Texas Incident Management Team to support deployed emergency response resources across the state, Incident Support Task Force and Disaster Recovery Task Force including Voluntary Agency Liaisons to support recovery efforts, regional field staff who remain tied in with local officials
- Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1 and Texas Task Force 2): Swiftwater Rescue Boat Squads to assist with flood rescues
- Texas Parks and Wildlife Department: Game Wardens, rescue boat teams, and helicopters with hoist capability to assist with flood rescues
- Texas Department of Public Safety: Helicopters with hoist capabilities, Texas Highway Patrol Troopers, and the Tactical Marine Unit
- Texas National Guard: High profile vehicles to aid stranded motorists, Blackhawk helicopters with hoist capability to assist with flood rescues, Personnel to assist with damage assessments and shelter operations
- Texas Department of Transportation: Personnel monitoring road conditions
- Texas A&M Forest Service: Saw Crews to assist with clearing of roadways
- Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service: Disaster Assessment and Recovery Agents as well as County Extension Agents to support agricultural and livestock needs
- Public Utility Commission of Texas: Power outage monitoring and coordination with utility providers
- Railroad Commission of Texas: Monitoring of the state’s natural gas supply and communication with the oil and gas industry
- Texas Commission on Environmental Quality: Air/water/wastewater monitoring
- Texas Department of State Health Services (Texas Emergency Medical Task Force): Severe Weather Support Packages consisting of medics, ambulances, and all-terrain vehicles
- Texas A&M Veterinary Emergency Team: Veterinary medical support for animals impacted by flooding
- Texas Department of Agriculture: Coordination of agricultural disaster response and support for affected producers
- Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC): Assistance with law enforcement coordination and support
- Texas Department of Insurance: Providing guidance on flood-related insurance claims and support to affected policyholders
- Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation: Coordination with regulated industries and licensed professionals involved in response and recovery operations
- Lower Colorado River Authority: River monitoring, floodgate operations, and support to regional flood response
- Texas A&M Public Works Response Team: Assessing and assisting with public works infrastructure needs
Officials continue to review disaster damage information self-reported by Texans through TDEM’s Individual State of Texas Assessment Tool (iSTAT) damage survey. When it is safe to do so, impacted Texans are encouraged to submit information about damage to homes or businesses by visiting damage.tdem.texas.gov. These details are vital to help officials identify impacted areas and connect Texans with resources.
Governor Abbott continues to take action to provide all necessary resources to local officials as they continue to respond to flooding impacting Texas, including:
- Obtaining approval from President Trump on federal disaster assistance as part of a Major Disaster Declaration
- Amending the state’s disaster declaration to include additional impacted counties and providing an update on the state’s emergency response in affected areas
- Providing an update on the state’s response to severe flooding in Kerr County and surrounding communities
- Increasing the readiness level of the Texas SOC to Level II (Escalated Response) and activating additional state emergency response resources as portions of West and Central Texas prepared for heavy rainfall and flash flooding threats
- Deploying state emergency response resources ahead of the rain and flooding threat
Texans are encouraged to follow instructions from local officials and can find flood resources online in the Texas Disaster Portal at disaster.texas.gov.
Are You Ready for a New Political Party?
July 7, 2025 – Elon Musk is reportedly laying the groundwork for a new political force in American politics: the “America Party.” Designed to appeal to the growing number of voters disillusioned with both major parties, the America Party positions itself as a centrist movement grounded in pragmatism, innovation, and national renewal. According to Musk and emerging sources close to the initiative, the party’s platform will embrace fiscal conservatism, with a strong emphasis on reducing the federal deficit and curbing government overspending.
One of the cornerstones of the America Party is the modernization of the U.S. military, particularly through the strategic use of artificial intelligence and cutting-edge technology. Musk, known for his ventures in AI, aerospace, and infrastructure, sees national defense as an area in dire need of forward-thinking innovation. Additionally, the party is expected to push for significant regulatory rollbacks, aiming to streamline bureaucracy and foster entrepreneurship, particularly in energy, space, and biotech sectors.
The America Party also champions pro-family policies aimed at encouraging higher birth rates — a response to concerns over demographic decline in the U.S. and other developed nations. These policies may include expanded parental leave, child tax credits, and support for affordable childcare.
Perhaps most notably, Musk envisions the America Party as representing “the 80% in the middle” — those who feel alienated by the extremes of left and right. By focusing on practical solutions rather than ideological purity, the party hopes to unite Americans across traditional political divides. While still in its early stages, the America Party could disrupt the entrenched two-party system by offering a new vision centered on innovation, stability, and a future-forward agenda. Whether it succeeds will depend on Musk’s ability to translate tech-world disruption into political momentum.
Paris District Road Report for Week of July 7, 2025
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in Fannin, Grayson, Hopkins, Franklin, Delta, Lamar, Red River, Hunt and Rains Counties for the week starting July 7, 2025. These schedules are subject to change due to weather conditions, equipment failure or other unforeseen issues. Motorists are advised to remain alert and pay special attention to all signs, barricades, and traffic controls, and reduce their speed as they approach and travel through work zones. They should also avoid distractions such as cell phones, eating, drinking, or car audio or navigation systems.
Safety Message: Flash Floods
Flash flooding is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in Texas. If you encounter a flooded road, “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
- Never walk, swim, or drive through still or moving flood waters. The water may be hiding dangers such as debris, tree branches, power lines, or damage to the road. As little as six inches of fast-moving water can cause motorists to lose control of their vehicle, even a pickup truck or SUV.
- Stay informed about weather conditions when you are driving.
- Be especially careful driving at night when it can be harder to see flood dangers.
- If your vehicle stalls in deep water, leave it and move to higher ground if you can do so safely.
Here’s the law
- Never drive around barriers blocking low water crossings or flooded roadways. Penalties include a fine of up to $2,000 and/or up to 180 days in jail.
- Tampering with roadway warning signs or barriers is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, up to two years in jail, or both.
Sherman Area (Fannin, Grayson Counties)
Contacts: Sherman Area Office (903) 892-6529; Grayson Co. Maintenance (903) 893-8831; Fannin Co. Maintenance (903) 583-7566.
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 were converted to one-way traffic on Wednesday, June 11th. This one-way conversion happened on both the east and west sides of US 75 from FM 121 to Blythe/Farmington Road. Lane closures will be in place in order to complete pavement repairs and to overlay the roadway with a new surface. After the pavement work is complete, both lanes of the frontage roads will be opened to traffic. There will be a section of frontage road near Northridge Road and Simmons Loop that will be reduced to one lane in order to construct the new u-turn bridge over US 75.
The frontage roads in Van Alstyne were converted to one-way traffic on Tuesday, May 27th. This one-way conversion happened on both the east and west sides of US 75 from County Line Road (CR 375/Panther Parkway) to FM 121. Lane closures will be in place in order to complete pavement repairs and to overlay the roadway with a new surface. After the pavement work is complete, both lanes of the frontage roads will be opened to traffic. The section of frontage road on the east side of US 75 between Kelly Lane and County Line Road will remain as two-way traffic in order to allow traffic on Kelly Lane to travel to County Line Road. All other sections of frontage roads in the Van Alstyne area will be converted to one-way traffic.
US 75, from SH 91 (Texoma Parkway) to US 82. This project will rebuild the US 75 mainlanes from SH 91 to US 82 as well as reconstruct the entrance and exit ramps on US 75. The project will also reconstruct bridges at Taylor Street, Lamberth Street and the US 75 main lanes over US 82 and reconstruct the frontage road intersection at SH 91. A reduced speed limit of 60 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project. Two lanes on the US 75 main lanes will remain open in each direction during the daytime hours with occasional further lane closures during the nighttime period. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads during construction.
The US 75 frontage road u-turns at the US 82 frontage road intersection are closed to traffic to allow crews to begin work on a portion of the new US 75 mainlane bridge over US 82. During this closure, traffic is asked to go through the US 75 and US 82 frontage road intersection by making a series of left turns.
The northbound US 75 frontage road exit to SH 91 is closed to allow for construction of the pavement of the new US 75 frontage road intersection with SH 91. During this closure, traffic is asked to stay on the northbound frontage road to Taylor Street and take Taylor Street back to SH 91.
Eastbound and westbound US 82 will have a left lane closure to allow for construction of drilled shafts and columns for the new US 75 bridge over US 82. Traffic should expect delays as US 82 will be reduced to one lane.
The northbound and southbound frontage road from Taylor Street to SH 91 (Texoma Parkway) will be reduced to one lane to allow for construction of the new intersection. An all-way stop will be in place at the southbound US 75 frontage road intersection with SH 91 (Texoma Parkway) to control traffic. Westbound SH 91 traffic is reduced to one lane and will be required to stop at the southbound US 75 intersection.
The westbound SH 91 access to US 75 northbound frontage road will be closed to facilitate the next phase of construction in this area. Northbound motorists intending to access eastbound SH91 will need to take the N. Travis St Exit (Exit 60), follow the frontage road to Taylor St, turn right and follow Taylor St to SH91. A detour sign will be posted to guide traffic.
The southbound frontage road to northbound frontage road U-Turn at SH 91 will be closed to facilitate the next phase of construction in this area. US 75 Southbound frontage road motorists intending to access the US 75 northbound frontage road will need to continue to N. Travis St, and utilize the U-Turn at Travis St. A detour sign will be posted to guide traffic.
The US 75 northbound exit to SH-91 will be closed to facilitate the construction of the ultimate ramp connection. Motorists intending to access SH-91 will be required to take Exit 60 for N. Travis Street/Taylor Street. Detour signs will be posted along the frontage road at N. Travis Street, Taylor Street, and N Loy Lake intersections.
The US 75 northbound and southbound will have alternate lane closures for mobile operations. This is a moving lane closure that will last for short duration at each location. This closure is scheduled from July 07 to August 02 from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM.
US 82 eastbound and westbound lanes at the intersection of US 75 and US 82 will have alternate closures for mobile operations. This is a moving lane closure that will last for short duration at each location. This closure is scheduled from July 07 to August 02 from 9:00 PM to 5:00 AM
US 75, from US 82 to North Loy Lake Road. This project will rebuild and widen the US 75 mainlanes from four lanes to six lanes as well as reconstruct the entrance and exit ramps on US 75. The project will also reconstruct bridges at FM 691, Iron Ore Creek and Spur 503, and add U-turn bridges at Loy Lake Road in Sherman and Spur 503 in Denison. A reduced speed limit of 65 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project. Watch for shoulder closures and lane shifts on the mainlanes of US 75 as well as frontage road lane closures within the project. Watch for nighttime lane closures on the northbound and southbound US 75 mainlanes, as crews work to construct the new pavement section.
Westbound Spur 503 is closed to traffic near US 75 as the overpass to southbound US 75 has been removed to allow for construction of the new overpass. During this closure traffic on westbound Spur 503 will be required to detour onto the frontage road at the temporary exit ramp west of Theresa Drive and continue along the frontage road to the Loy Lake Road intersection where traffic can make the U-turn to continue south on the US 75 frontage road to the entrance ramp before the FM 691 intersection.
The U-turn lanes for the US 75 frontage roads at FM 691 are closed to traffic to allow crews to work on constructing the middle portion of the new US 75 bridge over FM 691. During this closure traffic wishing to make a U-turn at the intersection is asked to turn left onto FM 691 and make another left at the next signal light.
The exit ramp from northbound US 75 to North Loy Lake Road in Denison is closed permanently. Travelers who wish to access North Loy Lake Road from northbound US 75 will detour up to Crawford Street, make a U-turn at the Crawford Street intersection, and head south on the frontage road to reach North Loy Lake Road.
The westbound Spur 503 ramp to northbound US 75 is closed to traffic. A temporary detour is in place to divert this traffic onto the frontage road. Traffic will exit Spur 503 onto the frontage road using the new detour, continue along the Spur 503 frontage road which runs into the US 75 frontage road to the Loy Lake Road intersection. Traffic can continue along the frontage road through Loy Lake Road and then take the next entrance ramp to northbound US 75.
US 75 all southbound lanes will be closed from Iron Ore Creek to FM 691 from July 10 to July 11 from 9;00 PM to 5:00 AM. Traffic need to follow the detour in place.
FM 691 east and westbound lanes will be closed under US 75 overpass from July 10 to July 11 from 9;00 PM to 5:00 AM. Traffic will have to take the frontage road as a detour.
US 75, from FM 1417 to SH 91 (Texoma Parkway). A reduced speed limit of 60 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set on the mainlanes for this construction project. Watch for shoulder closures and occasional lane closures on the northbound and southbound US 75 main lanes between SH 91 and FM 1417 as crews work on completing the remaining work on this project. Watch for occasional lane closures on the frontage roads between FM 1417 and SH 91.
US 75 Overlay, from near FM 84 to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for lane closures on northbound and southbound US 75 as crews will be working each night from Sunday night through Friday morning during the overnight period. Lane closures will be present at night for crews to overlay the roadway with hotmix. Lane closures will begin at 7:30 pm each night and should be reopened to traffic by 6 a.m.
US 75 full depth concrete repair, from the Collin County line to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for lane closures on northbound and southbound US 75 as crews will be working each night from Sunday night through Friday morning during the overnight period. Lane closures will be present at night for crews to replace failed concrete sections. Lane closures will begin at 7:30 p.m. each night and should be reopened to traffic by 6 a.m. This work will extend from the Collin-Grayson County line to the Oklahoma State line.
SH 289, in Dorchester at the FM 902 intersection. This project will widen SH 289 on each side of the roadway to allow for the addition of a center left-turn lane. This project will also install traffic signals at this intersection. Watch for shoulder closures and occasional daytime lane closures on the northbound and southbound SH 289 main lanes as well as on FM 902. The new signal light at the SH 289 and FM 902 intersection was activated on Thursday, May 29. The signal has started normal operation, and drivers should pay attention to this new signal as they approach the intersection.
SH 5, in Van Alstyne from Williams Way to Blassingame Avenue. Watch for daytime lane closures on SH 5 as crews work to install a shared use bicycle and pedestrian trail. The trail will follow along SH 5 from the existing trail at Williams Way to Blassingame Avenue, then along Tolson Avenue, then along Main Street where it will connect with Van Alstyne Parkway. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 121, from Main Street in Van Alstyne to SH 160. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
US 82, from the SH 91 to the Fannin County. Watch for daytime lane closures on the US 82 eastbound and westbound main lanes as crews work to perform pavement repairs and then a pavement overlay on the surface. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours.
US 75 debris pickup, from Collin County line to Oklahoma State line. Watch for mobile lane closures as workers pick up debris from the roadway every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday during the nighttime.
US 377 in Tioga, from South of FM 922 to North of Mc Knight Rd. and from Hinton St. to Shawnee Dr. This project will widen US 377 on each side of the roadway to allow for the addition of a center left-turn lane. This project will also install traffic signals at the intersection of US 377 & FM 121 and at the intersection of US 377 & FM 922. Watch for shoulder closures and occasional daytime lane closures on the northbound and southbound US 377 main lanes as well as on FM 922. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
Southmayd Rd at Elba Creek, the bridge at Elba Creek was closed beginning June 25. The Contractor demolished the bridge and started replacing it. During the closure, traffic is asked to use Frog Pond Rd & Spalding Rd or Klas Rd & Hazelwood Rd.
FM 901, from US 82 to US 377. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform a level up on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Fannin County:
Bonham State Park, Park Road 24. Park Road 24 in the Bonham State Park will have daytime lane closures while crews rehabilitate the main road, camping spots and parking lots within the park. Detour routes will be present during construction to allow for the flow of traffic.
FM 68, at the North Sulphur River bridge. FM 68 at the North Sulphur River bridge is closed to through traffic as crews work on and replacing the bridge structure and roadway approaches. During the closure, traffic is asked to use SH 34, SH 11, and SH 78 as the detour route.
FM 2645, from FM 898 to FM 1753. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 274, from SH 78 to FM 1753. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 274 is closed to thru traffic at the Sandy Creek Bridge in order for the contractor to replace the bridge and approaches. During the closure, traffic is asked to use SH 78 and FM 1753 to detour around the closure.
SH 121 overpass at US 69. The SH 121 overpass at US 69 opened to all traffic on 6/23/2025. Construction crews will continue working on minor items at this location. Motorists should expect delays as there will be daily lane closures through the construction zone.
CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek. The onsite detour on CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek has been removed. The new bridge is competed and open to traffic. Traffic is asked to approach the bridge slowly and drive at an appropriate speed through the work zone while crews continue working on finishing the remaining bridge work.
CR 2865 at Sanders Creek Tributary. CR 2865 at Sanders Creek Tributary was closed to traffic on Monday, April 21 to allow for replacement of the bridge. The bridge at Sanders Creek Tributary is completed and opened to traffic. The bridge on CR 2825 at Sanders Creek was closed on June 21 & the Contractor demolished the bridge. Traffic will be required to detour onto CR 2815 & CR 2865 while the bridge structure is being replaced.
FM 68, from SH 78 to FM 271. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 28 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 78, from US 82 to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for daytime shoulder closures and occasional daytime lane closures as workers install sloped-end treatments on drainage structures and replace bridge rail and guardrail.
SH 34, Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform herbicide operation roadway. Motorists should expect delays as they drive through the work zone.
FM 151, from Grayson Co. to US 69. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform overlay operations on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Sulphur Springs Area (Hopkins, Franklin Counties):
Contacts: Sulphur Springs Area Office (903) 885-9514; Franklin Co. Maintenance (903) 537-4976; Hopkins Co. Maintenance (903) 885-4031.
Hopkins County: SH 19, from I-30 to Rains County Line. Crews will be rehabbing the existing road. Watch for lane shifts within the work area. Expect slower moving traffic.
Hopkins County: FM 1870, from SH 11 to Mine Haul Road Bridge. Crews will be constructing turn lane and hauling in roadway materials. Watch for construction vehicles entering and leaving travel lanes.
Hopkins County: FM 71, S Sulphur River. Crews will be boring to collect soil samples. Roadway will be closed during these operations.
Franklin County: FM 21, from SH 37 to Titus County Line. Crews will be improving drainage structures and trimming trees along the roadway to prep for rehabbing the existing road.
Paris Area (Delta, Lamar, Red River Counties)
Contacts: Paris Area Office (903) 784-1357; Delta Co. Maintenance (903) 395-2139; Lamar Co. Maintenance (903) 785-4468; Red River Co. Maintenance (903) 427-3561.
Lamar County:
Loop 286, from FM 1497 around the north loop to FM 1507. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures and traffic merges while crews improve guardrail and drainage structures and perform bridge maintenance.
US 82 / Lamar Avenue, from 42nd street in Paris to Division Street in Blossom. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews perform pavement repairs and resurfacing.
BU 271 B, from 18th Street SE to 34th Street SE. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalk on the north and south sides of the roadway.
US 271, at the intersection of FM 2648 and at the intersection of FM 3298. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures as crews install roadway illumination within the right of way.
SH 19/24, Lamar & Delta Counties: from LP 286 intersection to SH 19. Watch for temporary lane closures and lane shifts while crews resurface the roadway, perform bridge rail upgrades, and bridge maintenance.
US 271, Lamar & Red River Counties: from FM 196 North to SH 37. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews remove tree and brush from within right of way.
US 82, Lamar & Red River Counties: from State Loop 286 in Paris to Bowie County Line in Red River County. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures.
Delta County:
SH 24, at Doctor’s Creek. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews perform bridge maintenance on the northbound structure.
SH 154, from SH 19 to BU 24. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures.
Red River County:
FM 2120, from FM 2573 to SH 37. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
FM 1487, from FM 910 to FM 412. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
Northeast Texas Trail, Clarksville, Texas. Watch for trucks and equipment entering and exiting streets and highways while crews construct the off-system trail.
Northeast Texas Trail, from BU 82J to Annona East City Limits. Watch for trucks and equipment entering and exiting streets and highways while crews construct the off-system trail.
BU 82 J, from FM 2825 to High Street (Clarksville). Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalk on the south sides of the roadway.
Greenville Area (Hunt, Rains Counties)
Contacts: Greenville Area Office (903) 455-2363; Hunt Co. Maintenance (903) 455-2303; Rains Co. Maintenance (903) 473-2682.
Hunt County:
SH 34, From Traders Road to FM 1570. This project will construct a turning lane, consisting of culvert extensions, roadway widening, overlay, and striping. Contractor will begin setting barricades July 7th. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
SH 11, from FM 2655 to SH 24. This project will add shoulders and replace drainage structures. The contractor has set barricades and is currently widening shoulders and performing ditch work. Contractor is performing base work on the main lanes and working on driveways. Contractor will begin preparing to lay hot mix on the southbound shoulder. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 1563, from SH 50 to SH 2655. This is a 2.7-mile rehabilitation project that will widen the existing roadway. The contractor has set work zone signs and barricades. Contractor completed cement treatment on last section of project. Ride testing and cover prime scheduled for next week. New guardrail placement is completed and work on mow strip is ongoing. Backfill, slope around bridge, and riprap are completed. Driveways, signage and mailboxes will be ongoing next week. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 2642, from FM 35 to SH 66. The contractor has set work zone signs and barricades. The contractor is installing storm sewer. Contractor is working to switch traffic to new pavement on the north by July 11th. Contractor will be starting work on Phase 2 after traffic switch. Please slow down and be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 512, from SH 34 to FM 118. The contractor has placed barricades and work zone traffic signs. The contractor has begun repair work on base and subgrade failures. The contractor has completed temporary seeding and subgrade widening. Construction on culverts and grading of ditches, seeding and driveways is ongoing. 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 currently prepping right-of-way and installing erosion control within the project limits. Contractor is removing existing 18” pipe and replacing with 24” pipe on the southbound. Contractor is performing structure work. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 36, from US 380 to SH 66. The 6.11-mile project will rehabilitate roadway surface and add safety end treatments. Barricades and work zone traffic signs installations are ongoing. Contractor is laying driveway pipes. 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 in place. Contractor will be performing temporary drainage work at FM 1903. Grading will be performed on east and west sides of FM 1903. Prime coat will be applied to main lanes at FM 1903. Hot Mix Asphalt will continue to be laid on the west side at FM 1903, during night. Contractor will be performing flexbase work on EB and WB frontage roads, and at Monty Stratton. Contractor will be setting deck panels and over hangs on FM 1903 bridge at night which will require lane closures. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Improvements, from CR2511 to FM 36. Detour paving will be happening on eastbound main lane near 2511 area. Detour paving will be performed at 2511 area on WBFR. At FM 36 contractor will be performing for hot mix on detour paving along EBFR and EBML, as well as WBFR and WBML. Temp wall work at FM 36 is ongoing Utility relocations are ongoing. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
District Wide Lighting / Safety Improvement. Boring and trenching for conduit has started on I-30 at FM 513. 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.
Vegetative edge spraying will be ongoing throughout the county. Debris pickup will be performed on IH30 on Monday, Wednesday, and Sunday. Ditch cleaning will be taking place throughout the county. Maintenance contractor will be performing guardrail repair in various locations.
Rains County maintenance section will be performing fog sealing on FM 2874, FM 513, and FM 2737. Crews will be performing work on FM 1565 from I-30 to Kaufman County line. Litter pickup will be performed at various locations for picnic areas and boat ramps. Vegetative spot spraying will be ongoing throughout the county. Right of Way mowing and tree trimming will be ongoing in various locations. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
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