The Lions Club Annual Christmas Parade Marched Through Sulphur Springs December 5th
December 10, 2025 – The 19th Annual Sulphur Springs, Texas, Lions Club Lighted Christmas Parade took place Friday, December 5th, 2025, with much joy and celebration. Numerous local businesses, organizations, groups, marching bands, and clubs participated in the joyous Holiday parade. Below is KSST/Cable Channel 18’s coverage of this festive event. KSST’s James Terry provided commentary for the parade.
Como-Pickton CISD Names Lydia Walden as Lone Finalist for Superintendent
December 9, 2025 – The Como-Pickton CISD Board of Trustees announced at last night’s board meeting that Lydia Walden, long-time district administrator, has been named the Lone Finalist for Superintendent. Walden has served in education for 42 years, with 26 of those years dedicated to CPCISD. She and her husband, Eric, reside in Sulphur Springs and are the proud parents of four grown children and grandparents to seven.
“I just want to say thank you for all the support, and thank you for the belief in me,” Walden said. “To the board … I am deeply honored and humbled and want to say thank you for trusting me with this enormous responsibility and the care of our CP students and staff.”
Walden shared that her focus remains on maintaining high expectations while ensuring that every student receives the support they need to succeed. “Every decision we make must lift students. When we lead with purpose, collaboration, and heart, schools become places where every child sees possibility — and every educator feels valued,” she said.
Before serving as Interim Superintendent, Walden was CPCISD’s Assistant Superintendent. Her 42-year career includes roles as a teacher and/or administrator in Mt. Vernon, Sulphur Springs, Garland, and Highland Park ISD before returning to Como-Pickton to serve as Assistant Superintendent.
“This district and community mean so much to me, and I look forward to continuing our shared commitment to doing what’s best for our students, staff, and stakeholders who make CPCISD such a special place,” Walden said.
By law, she is expected to officially assume the superintendent role following the required 21-day waiting period.
Texas Landowners Can Receive Up to $80,000 to Reforest Their Property
December 9, 2025 – Texas landowners now have a new financial incentive to restore forests on their property, thanks to the Texas Resilient Landscapes Initiative, a statewide program designed to strengthen natural ecosystems and reduce wildfire risks. Officials announced this week that eligible landowners can receive as much as $80,000 in cost-share assistance for reforestation projects.
The initiative, created through a partnership between the Texas A&M Forest Service and several conservation groups, aims to boost forest health across regions damaged by drought, wildfire, and invasive pests. Funding can be used for site preparation, soil work, seedling purchases, planting costs, and early maintenance needed to help young trees establish strong roots.
Program coordinators say the effort is not only about restoring tree cover but also about improving water resources, increasing wildlife habitat, and creating long-term economic benefits for rural communities.
“This is one of the most ambitious reforestation support programs Texas has ever launched,” officials said in the announcement. “Our goal is to help landowners bring forests back to life in areas where they’ve been lost.”
Both small and large property owners are encouraged to apply, though projects must meet specific conservation guidelines. Applications are being accepted on a rolling basis until funds are allocated, and demand is expected to be high.
More information, including eligibility requirements and how to apply, is available through the Texas A&M Forest Service website.
Food Industry Groups Sue Texas to Block New Warning Labels on Synthetic Ingredients
December 9, 2025 – A coalition of major food and beverage trade groups filed a lawsuit Friday seeking to halt a new Texas law that would require warning labels on products containing certain synthetic food additives. The American Beverage Association, Consumer Brands Association, National Confectioners Association, and FMI – The Food Industry Association – jointly lodged the suit, calling the proposed labels “false and misleading,” according to Reuters.
The legislation would mandate that affected products carry a prominent statement reading: “WARNING: This product contains an ingredient that is not recommended for human consumption by the appropriate authority in Australia, Canada, the European Union, or the United Kingdom.”
But the groups argue that none of those jurisdictions have formally designated the listed ingredients as “not recommended for human consumption,” and therefore the warning falsely implies a level of international disapproval that does not exist.
“The listed ingredients have been used safely in American foods and beverages for decades,” the associations said in their complaint. They contend the law forces companies to tell Texas shoppers something that is “simply not true,” creating unnecessary alarm and damaging consumer trust.
Industry leaders also warned the measure would drive up costs. Companies would be forced either to reformulate products or redesign packaging specifically for the Texas market, potentially affecting supply chains nationwide. Some of the ingredients targeted by the law, the plaintiffs note, have already been restricted or banned at the federal level, further complicating compliance.
The lawsuit comes amid heightened national scrutiny of U.S. food ingredients, particularly synthetic color additives. Since taking office, President Trump’s administration has moved to phase out petroleum-based dyes. In April, the FDA announced plans to revoke authorization for Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B, and said it intends to remove several FD&C dyes from the food supply by next year—a claim questioned by consumer advocates who say the agency has not begun formal rulemaking.
States have also taken action. West Virginia banned seven synthetic dyes in school food earlier this year, prompting its own industry lawsuit.
Texas officials have not yet responded publicly to the new challenge.
Texas Parks and Wildlife: Drone-Deployed Fish Bait Now Explicitly Prohibited
December 9, 2025 – Texas anglers hoping to gain a high-tech edge on the water will have to leave their drones at home. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) announced this week that drones may not be used to deploy bait while fishing, citing longstanding federal laws that classify unmanned aerial devices as “aircraft.”
According to TPWD, the decision follows a review of federal hunting and fishing regulations and consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Officials determined that drones fall under the definition of “aircraft” in the 1956 Federal Airborne Hunting Act—a law originally aimed at outlawing the use of airplanes and helicopters to hunt or harass wildlife.
Under Title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations, it is illegal to use any aircraft to assist in the taking of wildlife, including fish. That means anglers cannot use drones to drop bait, scout fish, guide lines, or provide any aerial assistance in the fishing process.
The department stressed that the prohibition is federal, not state-generated, and therefore binding on all states. TPWD cannot issue permits or exceptions that would allow drone-assisted fishing for sport or recreation.
The clarification comes as consumer-grade drones have become increasingly popular among fishermen looking to reach deeper waters or place bait precisely where fish are feeding. TPWD said the practice raises fairness, safety, and ethical concerns and conflicts directly with federal wildlife-protection laws.
The department did not indicate whether enforcement efforts will increase but reminded anglers that violations of federal wildlife laws can carry steep penalties, including fines and potential criminal charges.
TPWD encouraged fishermen to stay informed about gear restrictions and to rely on traditional methods. “Texas supports innovation in outdoor recreation,” the department said, “but it must be done within the bounds of federal and state law to protect wildlife and ensure fair-chase principles.”
The agency said additional guidance will be posted on its website as needed.
Paxton Sues East Plano Islamic Center, Alleging Fraudulent Land-Development Scheme
December 8, 2025 – Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against the East Plano Islamic Center (EPIC), Community Capital Partners (CCP), and several affiliated leaders, accusing them of running an illegal land-development scheme tied to a massive project known as “EPIC City.” The lawsuit, filed after a referral from the Texas State Securities Board, alleges violations of state securities laws, fraudulent fundraising practices, and misuse of investor dollars.
EPIC City is a proposed large-scale, Muslim-centric community development planned for over 400 acres straddling Collin and Hunt Counties in North Texas, envisioned by the East Plano Islamic Center (EPIC) to include housing, a mosque, school, sports facilities, and retail.
According to Paxton, CCP was created by EPIC to acquire and develop more than 400 acres across Hunt and Collin counties. Promotional materials for the project allegedly included improper and misleading claims, including suggestions that the development would be reserved primarily for Muslims and framed as the potential “epicenter of Islam in North America.” Paxton argues these representations not only violated state and federal law but misled investors about the nature and purpose of the project.
In November 2025, “EPIC City” planners renamed their project to something more non-threatening. The proposed new name is “The Meadow.”
The lawsuit further claims that while EPIC City’s promotional materials promised transparency and lawful fundraising, the project’s leaders diverted a substantial portion of investor money for personal use. Regulators say CCP also failed to verify whether more than 10 percent of its investors were legally qualified as “accredited,” a requirement under securities law meant to protect inexperienced or vulnerable buyers.
Paxton, who first announced an investigation into EPIC City in March 2025 and formally sought the securities board referral in October, said the time for warnings has passed. “The leaders behind EPIC City have engaged in a radical plot to destroy hundreds of acres of beautiful Texas land and line their own pockets,” Paxton said. “This unlawful land project will be stopped.”
The lawsuit seeks to halt all EPIC City activity and bar those involved from conducting similar ventures in the future. EPIC and CCP representatives have not yet publicly responded to the allegations.
The CPKC Holiday Train Stopped in Sulphur Springs December 4th for a Short Concert
December 7, 2025 – The Canadian Pacific Kansas City Holiday Train made a stop in Sulphur Springs, Texas, on Thursday, December 4th, 2025, at the railroad tracks by Pacific Park. A short concert was performed while the train was in town. The Salvation Army was present collecting canned goods and donations. Midway through the concert Sulphur Springs City Council Member, Place 5, Gary Spraggins, was brought on stage to help present a check to the local food bank. A nearby fire emergency paused the night’s activities for a brief period of time, but the show continued once they felt it was appropriate. Below is KSST/Cable Channel 18’s coverage of this exciting event! Merry Christmas!
A Blessing and Ribbon Cutting for the new CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic-Medical Specialty Building in Sulphur Springs, Texas, was Held December 4th
December 7, 2025 – A Grand Opening ceremony consisting of a Blessing and a Ribbon Cutting for the new CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic-Medical Specialty Building in Sulphur Springs, Texas, was held Thursday, December 4th, 2025. Speakers and attendees included Vice President of Mission Integration of CHRISTUS Mother Frances, Andy Navarro, Father Justin Wylie with CHRISTUS Mother Frances, President of CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital, Paul Harvey, and much more. Below is KSST/Cable Channel 18’s coverage of this Ribbon Cutting event. The video includes a brief tour of the facilities.
Paris District Road Report for December 8, 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 December 8, 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. 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 on both the east and west sides of US 75 from County Line Road (CR 375/Panther Parkway) to FM 121 are one-way roads. The pavement work is completed, and both lanes of the frontage roads are open to traffic. 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.
US 75 frontage roads in Howe were converted to one-way traffic on October 23. This one-way conversion happened on both the east and west sides of US 75 from Blythe Rd to Hanning St. 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 completed, both lanes of the frontage roads will be opened to 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-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 northbound exit ramp to Lamberth Rd. (Exit 63) will be closed from August 20 to December 24, 2025, from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM. This is a long-term closure, and drivers should use the adjacent exits.
Eastbound/Westbound Taylor St. will remain closed until April 2026.
US 75 northbound main lanes from north of US 82 to north of Lamberth to be fully closed from December 07 to December 08 from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM. This lane closure is needed to switch traffic to the new pavement.
US 75 southbound main lanes from north of US 82 to north of Lamberth to be fully closed from December 08 to December 09 from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM. This lane closure is needed to switch traffic to the new pavement.
US 75 southbound & northbound mainlanes from N. Travis to Loy Lake Rd will have nightly lane closure from December 01 to December 31 from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM. These closures will be short duration closures for mobile operations.
US 75 northbound frontage road from Lamberth to north of westbound frontage road will have nightly lane closure from December 01 to December 31 from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM. These closures will be short duration closures for mobile operations.
US 75 northbound & southbound frontage road from Lamberth to north of westbound frontage road will have daily lane closure from December 01 to December 31 from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. These closures will be short duration closures for mobile operations.
US 75 southbound frontage road from 300 feet north of westbound frontage road to 300 feet south of eastbound frontage road will have daily lane closure from December 01 to December 31 from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM. These closures will be short duration closures for mobile operations
Westbound/Eastbound frontage road from 300 feet east of northbound frontage road to 300 feet west of southbound frontage road will have daily lane closure from December 01 to December 31 from 9:00 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. 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, or traffic can continue along the northbound frontage road through the Loy Lake Road intersection and take the next entrance ramp to northbound 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.
FM 121, from Main Street in Van Alstyne to SH 160. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as crews work to finalize the rehabilitation and widening of the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers may be directing 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.
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.
Two new traffic signals in Tioga were activated in November. The new traffic signals were activated at the US 377 & FM 922 intersection and at the US 377 & FM 121 intersection. The traffic signals were fully activated to signal mode on Wednesday, November 19. Message boards are in place on US 377, FM 922 and FM 121 to alert the public about the change.
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.
Sister Grove Rd., Contractor closed the bridge on Sister Grove Rd at West Prong Sister Grove Creek to replace the existing bridge. The Contractor completed the bridge replacement work and opened it to traffic on October 31. The Contractor will continue working on the remaining minor items with occasional daily lane closures. Drivers are requested to slow down, watch for construction workers and obey construction signs as they travel 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.
US 377 from FM 121 to FM 902. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform debris removal work on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 11 from FM 1417 to US 69. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform debris removal work on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 56 from Southmayd to Whitesboro. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform level up 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 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 replacement is completed and the bridge is open to traffic. However, construction crews will continue working on the remaining bridge structure and roadway final works. During this final stage, traffic is asked to watch for workers and equipment and drive slowly when going through the work zone.
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 occasional delays as the contractor performs the final minor activities in 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.
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.
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 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. The bridge is now completed and opened to traffic.
SH 78, from FM 981 to Coline County Line. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform level up 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 performing surfacing operations. Watch for lane shifts within the work area. Expect slower moving traffic.
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.
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:
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.
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 195, at Six Mile Creek. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews perform bridge maintenance.
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.
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. The contractor is performing concrete paving Sunday night, November 30th. Contractor is also performing maintenance on driveways. 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. Barricades and traffic signs are in place. Contractor is currently working base material. Contractor will be fog sealing this week. One-way flagger operations are currently set up through the work zone. Expect minor delays. 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 performing excavation and embankment work. 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. Contractor is performing patch repairs. TxDOT is finalizing negotiations with contractor to change surface to hot mix overlay. Flagger controlled traffic control is in place during construction operations. Expect slight delays and follow pilot vehicle. 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. Drill shafts are installed at FM 1903. 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 will be performing cement treatment and hot mix paving for detours around FM 36 and FM 1570 area frontage roads. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
District Wide Lighting / Safety Improvement. Contractor is setting light poles and electrical services on SH 24 and FM 1528, and SH 24 at BU 24. 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 spot base repair on FM 2358. Edge work will be performed on FM 1565, from IH-30 to SH 66. Flaggers will be present at both locations. Crew will be performing bridge maintenance work in various locations. Maintenance contractors will be performing guardrail repair at various locations.
Rains County maintenance section will be performing roadway prep work on FM 1565. Right of Way vegetation management will be taking place in various locations. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
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State Transportation Investments Continue to Save Texas Commuters Millions
December 7, 2025 – Traffic delays in Texas cities lower than other states
PARIS – As Texas continues to experience rapid population and economic growth and more vehicles on the road, targeted congestion-relief transportation investments are helping drivers spend less time stuck in traffic and saving Texans millions of dollars each year.
Less congestion thanks to TxDOT projects
The 2025 Texas Top 100 Congested Road Segments Report highlights Texas’ strong economic and population growth. The report compares 2024 conditions with 2017, which represent recent peak congestion periods in Texas. Compared with 2017, statewide delays in 2024 are down 12% even as statewide travel grew 12%.
These improvements saved Texas commuters an estimated total of $1.8 billion in 2024 in terms of delay and fuel costs compared to eight years ago, which translates to $240 annual cost savings per commuter.
“With more people driving on Texas roads, you might expect traffic-related problems to increase, but thanks to our projects throughout the state, delays are actually going down,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said. “It’s a testament to the incredible work our crews and engineers do every day and shows that the investments in transportation are working.”
“Could you imagine how tough our traffic challenges would be if TxDOT had not focused on targeted congestion relief projects over the last several years?” Texas Transportation Commissioner Robert C. Vaughn said. “Texas is leading the nation in active construction projects, which are helping people get to work faster and spend more time with their families.”
Texas Clear Lanes
The Texas Clear Lanes program, the congestion-relief initiative launched by Gov. Greg Abbott in 2015, continues to target congestion in the state’s largest metro areas. TxDOT district-led projects in smaller cities are also delivering faster improvements as work wraps up.
About half of the Top 100 road segments were under construction in 2024, including several projects from Texas Clear Lanes.
“Even with more people and more cars on the road, Texans are still doing better than they were five or 10 years ago,” said David Schrank, Texas A&M Transportation Institute (TTI) senior research scientist. “That’s a direct reflection of the congestion-fighting strategies that have been put in place, especially Texas Clear Lanes and other mobility-enhancing projects across the state.”
Leading the nation
The recently released national 2025 Urban Mobility Report reinforces the progress being made to alleviate congestion throughout the state of Texas. The report found that, compared with similarly sized metropolitan areas across the nation, delay per mile of travel in Dallas–Fort Worth and Houston was about 39% lower than in similarly sized cities, while San Antonio and Austin experienced about 16% less delay.
Roadway highlights
- Dallas: Stemmons Freeway has a 15% reduction in delay; I-30/US 67 corridor experienced a 34% reduction in delay following completion of the I-30 East project (adjacent segment where construction was completed)
- Bryan–College Station: Delays along FM-2818 have decreased 18%
- Laredo: Congestion on a segment of Mines Road near the World Trade Bridge is down 45% due to operational improvements
- Fort Worth: I-820 corridor delays have improved by more than 50%
Together, these efforts show how TxDOT projects and operational improvements are helping Texans spend less time in traffic and travel more safely and efficiently.
Houston’s West Loop (I-610) remains the state’s most congested road, followed by Houston’s Eastex Freeway (I-69/U.S. 59), Dallas’ Woodall Rodgers Freeway, Houston’s Southwest Freeway (I-69/U.S. 59) and Houston’s North Loop (I-610). Ninety-six of the Top 100 segments are in the four largest metro areas. A comprehensive listing of road segments statewide, with year-to-year comparisons, is available online.
Changes in traffic demand and delays
The table below highlights changes in traffic demand and delays across key regions comparing 2017 to 2024, illustrating the impact of these improvements on traffic flow and commuter costs.
| Area | Vehicle-Miles of Travel | Annual Hours of Delay | Annual Hours of Delay (M Hours) | Annual Congestion Cost Savings ($M)3 | Annual Congestion Cost Savings per Commuter1, 3 |
| Austin District2 | +20% | −11% | −7.3 | +$193 | +$351 |
| Dallas District2 | +15% | -3% | -3.6 | +$96 | +$161 |
| Ft Worth District2 | +13% | +6% | +3.1 | −$83 | +$67 |
| Houston District2 | +7% | −13% | −25.6 | +$680 | +$277 |
| San Antonio District2 | +10% | −21% | −10.2 | +$270 | +$276 |
| Other Districts2 | +13% | −29% | −24.5 | +$648 | +$273 |
| Statewide2 | +12% | −12% | −68.1 | +$1805 | +$240 |
1 Assumes a 20-mile commute, five days a week.
2 Includes all monitored road segments and is not limited to the Top 100.
3 Positive numbers indicate improvement.
