Paris District Road Report for March 9, 2026
March 6, 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 9, 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.
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 mainlanes from Exit 61 to Crawford St. (Denison) will be closed from March 08 to March 09, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 5:00 am. This full closure is needed to switch traffic, and drivers should use the adjacent exits.
US 75 southbound mainlanes from Exit 63 to Travis St. will be closed from March 09 to March 10, 2026, from 8:00 pm to 5:00 am. This full closure is needed to switch traffic, and drivers should use the adjacent exits.
US 75 southbound mainlanes from Exit 65 to Travis St. will be closed from March 15 to March 16, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 5:00 am. This full closure is needed to switch traffic, and drivers should use the adjacent exits.
US 75 northbound exit ramp to Lamberth Rd. (Exit 63) will be closed from August 20 to March 31, 2026. 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 northbound mainlanes from Loy Lake Rd (Sherman) to Loy Lake Rd. (Denison), right lane will be closed from March 09 to March 12, from 8:00 pm to 5:00 am.
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, 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 northbound frontage road from FM 691 to Spur 503 to be fully closed from January 05 to March 18. This full closure is needed to reconstruct the frontage 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 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 safely 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.
FM 121 from FM 3356 to SH 289. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform ditch maintenance and edge repair work. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 901 from SH 56 to Sadler north city limit. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform ditch maintenance and edge repair work. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 56 from Whitesboro to SH 289. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform ditch maintenance and edge repair work. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 2729 from Tom Bean to FM 697. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform ditch maintenance and edge repair work. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 697 from SH 11 to FM 2729. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform ditch maintenance and edge repair work. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 56 from SS 129 to FM 901. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform hot mix level up work. 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 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 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 will be 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 will be 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 work 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 pothole repair work 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 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: Loop 301 at Railroad Crossing. The railroad crossing will be getting replanked the week of March 9-13 and the road will be closed to through traffic during the operations.
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 performing prime coat on roadway from 1000 ft. west of Gardner Rd. to the intersection of FM 512 and FM 2655. 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 now excavating in the south bound shoulder. Flagger operations in place while work is being performed near FM 751. Expect delays in the workzone. 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 will be applied. Flagging operations will be in place 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 this week 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. The contractor is working in the median and on frontage roads. 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 513 / Lamar St. from FM 2736 to Loop 178. 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. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
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Point To Disband Police
March 7, 2026 – The City of Point will soon disband its local police department, shifting law enforcement responsibilities to the Rains County Sheriff’s Office, according to a letter issued by Mayor Angela Smith.
The population of Point, Texas, is 985, according to Census Reporter and the City of Point. It is a small city in Rains County covering 2.78 square miles, with a median age of 38.4 years and approximately 355 households.
In the letter to residents, Smith said the decision was made after careful consideration of the city’s resources and the long-term needs of the community. Once the transition is complete, deputies from the Rains County Sheriff’s Department will provide law enforcement coverage for the city.
City officials say the move is intended to ensure residents continue receiving reliable police protection while addressing operational and financial challenges associated with maintaining a small municipal department. Smaller cities across Texas have increasingly relied on county law enforcement agencies to provide policing services as costs for staffing, equipment and training continue to rise.
The mayor noted that the transition will require coordination between the city and county officials to ensure there are no gaps in coverage. Details about the exact timeline for closing the department and fully transferring responsibilities to the sheriff’s office have not yet been finalized.
Residents were encouraged to continue using emergency services as normal during the transition period.
Once the change takes effect, the Rains County Sheriff’s Office will handle patrols, emergency calls and investigations within Point’s city limits, marking a significant shift in how law enforcement services are provided in the community.
Storms Forecast Tonight, But After The KoC Fish Fry
Friday March 6, 2026 – Residents in Hopkins County can expect warm and breezy conditions early this evening before the threat of severe weather moves into the area later tonight.
According to the forecast, skies will remain mostly cloudy with temperatures near 80 degrees through the early evening hours. Storm chances are expected to increase later in the night as a line of thunderstorms moves across Northeast Texas.
The good news for those planning to attend the Knights of Columbus Fish Fry in Sulphur Springs is that the event, scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m., should take place before the strongest storms arrive. Forecast models indicate the more significant thunderstorms will likely develop later in the evening, after the community event has wrapped up.
The next KoC Fish Fry of 2026 will be Tonight!. With so many options, no one goes away hungry. Service starts at 5PM and goes till 7pm. Right here in Sulphur Springs at St. James Catholic Church.
Meteorologists say some storms tonight could become strong to severe, bringing the potential for heavy rain, gusty winds, hail and possibly isolated tornadoes across parts of North and Northeast Texas. A tornado watch has been issued for several counties in the region, including Hopkins County, through late tonight.
Residents are encouraged to stay weather aware as conditions could change quickly after sunset. Emergency officials recommend keeping mobile alerts enabled and having a plan in place in case warnings are issued overnight.
Despite the threat later tonight, early evening conditions should remain relatively calm, allowing outdoor activities and community gatherings to continue as planned.
Storms are expected to gradually move through the region overnight before additional unsettled weather continues into the weekend.
Camp Mystic Summer Camps Allowed For Now
March 6, 2026 – A Travis County judge has ruled that Camp Mystic may move forward with its annual summer camps this year, despite ongoing lawsuits and public pressure following last summer’s deadly flooding in the Texas Hill Country.
Camp Mystic is a private Christian summer camp for girls. Established in 1926, Mystic is nestled among cypress, live oak, and pecan trees in the hill country of west-central Texas on the banks of the beautiful Guadalupe River.
The decision allows the camp to operate on areas of its property that were not impacted by the flooding. However, the court also issued a temporary order prohibiting Camp Mystic from altering structures connected to the section of the camp where the fatalities occurred.
The ruling comes after the parents of one of the victims filed a lawsuit seeking to block the camp from reopening this summer. The suit argued that operations should remain suspended while investigations and legal proceedings tied to the tragedy continue.
Last summer’s flooding at Camp Mystic claimed 28 lives. The victims included 25 campers, two staff members and the camp’s longtime director. The disaster drew national attention and sparked questions about safety procedures, emergency planning and whether the camp should be allowed to resume operations.
The judge’s ruling does not resolve the broader lawsuit but determines that the camp may continue preparing for its upcoming summer season while legal challenges proceed through the courts.
The order preserving certain structures at the camp is intended to protect potential evidence as investigators and attorneys continue examining the circumstances surrounding the flooding and the deaths that occurred.
The issue has also drawn attention from state leaders. Last month, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick publicly urged the Texas Department of State Health Services not to issue Camp Mystic the required license to operate until lawmakers have an opportunity to investigate the incident during the next legislative session.
For now, the judge’s decision means Camp Mystic can proceed with limited operations this summer while the legal battle and state-level scrutiny surrounding the tragedy continue.
The case remains ongoing, and further court proceedings are expected in the months ahead.
Post Election, Texas Forms ‘Sharia Free Texas Caucus’
March 6, 2026 – A group of Texas lawmakers announced Thursday the formation of the “Sharia Free Texas Caucus,” a legislative coalition aimed at examining and opposing the influence of Sharia law within the state.
In Congress, a caucus refers to a group of lawmakers who share similar interests or goals to advance specific legislation or policy, such as the Congressional Black Caucus.
State Rep. Brent Money unveiled the new caucus following strong support from Republican voters in the recent GOP primary for a ballot proposition calling for a ban on Sharia law in Texas. The advisory question received overwhelming backing from Republican voters statewide, prompting several lawmakers to organize around the issue ahead of future legislative sessions.
According to organizers, the caucus will focus on reviewing how Sharia law—an Islamic legal framework derived from the Quran and other religious texts—could conflict with the constitutional protections and legal systems already established under Texas and U.S. law.
Supporters say the goal of the caucus is to ensure that American constitutional law remains the sole governing legal authority in the state. Lawmakers involved in the effort say they plan to study the issue further, review policies from other states and consider possible legislation in upcoming sessions of the Texas Legislature.
Money said the formation of the caucus reflects concerns raised by grassroots Republican voters and is intended to respond to those priorities. Organizers also say the group will examine potential legal and policy measures to address what they view as threats posed by the application of foreign legal systems within the United States.
The caucus launches with a group of 16 founding members from the Texas House of Representatives. Those lawmakers include Brent Money, Daniel Alders, Janis Holt, Andy Hopper, Carrie Isaac, Mitch Little, Shelley Luther, Don McLaughlin, Mike Olcott, Katrina Pierson, Keresa Richardson, Alan Schoolcraft, Joanne Shofner, Steve Toth, Wes Virdell and Trey Wharton.
Supporters say the caucus will serve as a forum for lawmakers to collaborate, research legal issues and develop potential legislation tied to the topic in the coming years.
Senior Center COOR. Dawna Pryor had A Second Cup Of Coffee to Chat About the Bridges 90+ Banquet April 11th and More
March 5, 2026 – Coordinator of the Sulphur Springs, Texas, Senior Citizens Activity Center, Dawna Pryor, dropped by for A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey. Dawna and John Mark chatted about the 22nd Annual Sulphur Springs Bridges 90+ Banquet scheduled for April 11th, 2026. They also talked about the next Silver Saturday Night at the Senior Center scheduled for March 14th, 2026, the visit from the folks from the Hopkins County Historical Society at the Senior Center on March 16th, the Tech Talks every Wednesday at 1:00pm, and so much more. Be sure to check out this joyful episode below and see what the Senior Citizens Activity Center has to offer to you.
Peerless Youth Ministries Will Hold a Fish Fry March 21st
March 5, 2026 – The Peerless Youth Ministries will hold a fish fry and auction March 21, 2026. Food will be served beginning at 5:00pm. Cost is a donation. The church is located at 7414 FM 71 W Sulphur Springs, Texas.
Sulphur Springs City Manager’s Report March 3, 2026
March 5, 2026 – During the regular meeting of the Sulphur Springs City Council on Tuesday March 3, 2026, City Manager Marc Maxwell submitted his monthly report.
TO: SULPHUR SPRINGS CITY COUNCIL
FROM: CITY MANAGER, MARC MAXWELL
SUBJ: MANAGER’S REPORT
CLAIMS
Two workers’ compensation claims were filed in February: A Fire Captain sustained a sprain/contusion to his left foot/ankle during a wildfire incident and was released to full duty. An Assistant Fire Marshal sustained a torn right calf muscle while detaining a suspect and was released to limited duty.
Liability matters included a Notice of Claim from Frontier regarding facilities in the 1600 block of Myrtle Drive and a property abatement notice in the 1200 block of College Street that did not qualify as a claim under TMLIRP.
A Notice of Claim was filed and forwarded to TMLIRP.
Thermo
Crews flushed the 18-inch water line, completed pressure testing, and began BAC-T testing. Nine concrete pads were installed around valve stands.
For the Thermo 21″ sewer line (9,000 feet), crews continued mulching the path in preparation for installation. Installation will begin in 2 weeks.
Miracle League Field
Staff is reviewing bids for sitework, field construction and fencing. The bids are coming in a little better than before.
STREET IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
| Street | Between | Length |
| Asphalt/Conc. Repair | various soft spot repairs | 1000 |
| Hodge | League to Barbara | 1130 |
| Colorado | Longino to Jackson | 401 |
| Fleming | Church to Rosemont | 428 |
| Putman | Carter to Como | 2360 |
| Mulberry | Park to Glover | 1299 |
| League | Connally to Houston + curve | 1316 |
| Moore | Main to Connally | 1193 |
| Gaines | Fuller to Putman | 422 |
| Raintree | Loop 301 to Loop 301 | 2978 |
| N. Lake Rd. and ramp | Peerless Hwy to ramp | 3200 |
| Towne | Hinnant to Robertson | 412 |
| Lemon | Bill Bradford-McGrede to Sprite | 1088 |
| Able and Ava | Putman to Fuller | 820 |
| Davis St. | South Davis from RR to Kyle | 2149 |
| Southland | Davidson to end | 898 |
| Simms | Freeman to end | 400 |
| Cranford | Austin to Hodge | 891 |
| Total Feet | 22385 | |
| Total Miles | 4.24 | |
Departmental Activity
Public Works
- Repaired 177 potholes and cleaned storm drains 2 times.
- Repaired pavement from 1 water/sewer cut.
- Installed 120 feet of curbs at Robertson and Towne Streets; installed new valley gutters at Gaines & Putman and Moore & Main Streets; began curb replacement on Hodge Street (SIP list).
- Repaired/replaced 2 stop signs and 8 street signs; installed 2 new 30 MPH signs on McGrede Street.
- Cleaned box culvert under South Texas Street; repaired a sinkhole at Stonebriar; filled asphalt settlement at Coleman Park parking area.
- Applied barricades for low-water areas during storms and hauled street-sweeper spoils to Maloy Landfill.
Utilities — Water
- Water breaks repaired: ¾″–1; 1″–1; 2″–3; 4″–2; 6″–4; 8″–8.
- Water meters replaced: ¾″–19; 1″–2; 2″–1; meter boxes–3. Dead meters: 1.
- Located over 5,400 feet of water mains for contractors; installed five 1″ taps and one 2″ tap; repaired or replaced two hydrants.
Wastewater Treatment Plant
- Monthly average effluent TSS = 1.95 mg/L.
- Hauled 578.59 tons of sludge to Maloy Landfill; none to Pleasant Oaks.
- Completed multiple maintenance items, including sludge pump repairs, drive unit preparation, and press-building bearing replacement.
Water Plant
- Collected bacteriological samples; collected TOC samples and received lab results.
- Flushed dead-end mains.
- Conducted BAC-T sampling on the 18″ Luminant water line.
- Submitted annual Water Audit.
Community Development — Inspections & Permits
- Inspections: 98 building; 18 electrical; 23 plumbing; 4 mechanical.
- Permits: 33 building; 61 trade.
- No Planning & Zoning or ZBA applications were filed for February.
Fire Department
- 170 total calls; 40 inspections; 76 hydrants maintained; 178 CE hours.
- Incident detail: 4 structure fires; 3 vehicle fires; 12 non-structure fires; 14 alarms; 2 county mutual aids.
Police Department
Two patrol officers (Kaitlyn Childers and Austin Garrison) were hired to fill patrol positions.
Police Department
- 1,607 total calls
- 41 accidents (8 injuries; 0 fatalities)
- 443 citations
- 46 offenses
- 39 arrests
Animal Control
- 107 complaint calls
- 16 dogs/cats picked up; 6 owner drop-offs
- 15 adoptions (85% adoption rate)
- 8 animals released to owner
Library
- 5,054 visitors
- 3,858 checkouts
- 281 computer sessions
- 209 eBook users; 745 eBook checkouts
Programming included AARP tax assistance, preschool story time, Spring Break planning activities, Earth Day tree signups, and coordination with local schools and area libraries.
Parks & Recreation
- Daily maintenance and cleaning; banners changed for Mardi Gras and St. Patrick’s Day; cleaned fountain wet vault twice; fertilized trees and rye grass.
- Sprayed sports fields and Pacific Park for weeds; trimmed trees in Buford Park; planted four trees; rebuilt three picnic tables; prepared Grays Building for 12 rentals; mowed airport terminal area once.
- Assisted with 120 senior activities; hosted a Valentine’s Party (80 attendees) and Silver Saturday Night (85 attendees).
Coleman Park is booked every weekend (except Easter and July 4th) from March 21 through August 1.
Airport & Tourism
- 4,304 gallons AvGas sold.
- 5,982 gallons Jet-A sold.
- 2,145 aircraft operations (average 76 per day).
Out-of-State Travel
- None
Hopkins County Texas Receives Significant Rain Overnight, Was it Enough?
March 5, 2026 – Hopkins County received a round of overnight rainfall this week, but local totals show the precipitation was not nearly enough to significantly ease ongoing dry conditions across Northeast Texas.
Weather stations around Sulphur Springs, the county seat, recorded roughly 0.43 inches of rain during the latest overnight system, according to rainfall monitoring data. While the showers brought temporary relief and dampened dusty conditions, the amount fell short of what farmers and ranchers say is needed to replenish soil moisture and area stock ponds.
The small rainfall comes during a year that has been unusually dry for the region. Records indicate Hopkins County is more than 47 percent below its normal rainfall total for the year to date, highlighting the severity of the deficit.
Agricultural producers across the county say the overnight rain helped settle fields and provided minor moisture for winter pastures, but it did little to address longer-term concerns. Many pastures remain stressed, and water levels in farm ponds are still lower than normal.
Climatology data for Sulphur Springs shows the area typically receives about 4.43 inches of rain during March alone, meaning several additional storms would be needed to bring totals closer to average levels.
Meteorologists say additional opportunities for rain could arrive later in the week as storm systems move across North Texas, but totals remain uncertain.
For now, the overnight showers served as a reminder of how badly the region needs sustained rainfall.
In Hopkins County, residents welcomed the rain—but most agree it was just a start, not the soaking needed to break the dry spell.
Rain chances are in the forecast for the next seven days.
Republicans Voters Reject Sharia Law at March Poll
March 5, 2026 – Republican primary voters across Texas delivered overwhelming support for a non-binding ballot proposition calling for the prohibition of Sharia law, according to unofficial results released following Tuesday’s primary election.
Sharia, meaning “the correct path” in Arabic, is the divine legal and moral framework derived from the Quran and Hadith (teachings of Prophet Muhammad) that governs all aspects of life for Muslims, including daily worship, marriage, finance, and moral behavior. It serves as a guide for ethical conduct and, in some contexts, is codified into state legal systems, particularly regarding personal status and criminal justice.
The proposal was one of 10 advisory questions placed on the Republican primary ballot by the Republican Party of Texas. Party leaders included the measures to gauge grassroots priorities ahead of the party’s 2026 state convention and the 2027 legislative session, when lawmakers could consider legislation related to the issues raised in the ballot questions.
The “dark side” of Sharia law, often highlighted by human rights critics, refers to strict, literalist interpretations that can lead to severe violations of human rights, particularly concerning women, minorities, and LGBTQ+ individuals. Key issues include harsh corporal punishments (stoning, amputation), restrictions on women’s rights, and lack of due process.
Among the propositions, the measure concerning Sharia law received the highest level of support. Unofficial returns showed approximately 94.81 percent of Republican primary voters backed the proposal, making it the most widely supported of the advisory questions.
As of late 2025, Texas has legally banned the application of Sharia law and the creation of “Sharia compounds” or “cities” in the state, with Governor Greg Abbott signing legislation in September 2025 to prevent foreign or religious law from superseding Texas law. This action followed controversy over a proposed Muslim-centric development, EPIC City, which officials argued could lead to discriminatory practices.
Supporters of the measure say the vote reflects concerns among Republican voters about maintaining U.S. and Texas law as the governing legal framework within the state. Because the proposition was advisory in nature, the vote does not automatically create or change any law. However, party officials say the results help guide the legislative priorities that Republican leaders may pursue in future sessions of the Texas Legislature.
The issue drew additional statewide attention late last year when Gov. Greg Abbott took action related to organizations he said were connected to extremist groups. Abbott announced that the Council on American-Islamic Relations and the Muslim Brotherhood had been designated as foreign terrorist organizations under Texas law, a move that brought renewed focus to debates over foreign influence and religious law in the United States.
All ten propositions placed before Republican voters passed by wide margins, reflecting strong agreement among GOP primary participants on several policy priorities.
Party officials say the results will be reviewed as delegates prepare for discussions at the upcoming Republican Party of Texas convention, where grassroots activists and party leaders will determine which issues should be emphasized in future legislative efforts.
