Driving Across Texas in an EV May Not Get Easier
February 11, 2025 – The recent suspension of federal funding for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure by the Trump administration has introduced significant uncertainty for North Texas’ clean energy initiatives. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has instructed state transportation departments to pause activities related to the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program, pending a comprehensive review.
This directive affects approximately $3 billion allocated for EV charging projects nationwide, with Texas slated to receive a substantial portion. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) had previously outlined plans to deploy these funds to establish an interconnected network of EV charging stations across the state.
In North Texas, the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) had been proactive in advancing EV infrastructure. The council secured a $15 million community grant to implement the North Texas Equitable Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NTx–EEVI) Project, aiming to enhance charging accessibility, particularly in underserved areas.
The funding suspension has prompted NCTCOG and other regional stakeholders to reassess their plans. While the private sector has significantly invested in EV infrastructure, industry leaders assert that consumer demand will still drive the expansion of charging networks despite federal funding issues.
The pause in federal support raises concerns about potential delays in EV infrastructure deployment, which could impact the region’s transition to cleaner transportation options. Local authorities and organizations are now exploring alternative funding mechanisms and partnerships to maintain momentum in their clean energy efforts.
CHRISTUS Heart Month Focus: Importance of Cardiac Rehab for Patients
February 10, 2025 – (EAST TEXAS) – February is American Heart Month, and CHRISTUS Health is focused on all matters of the heart, including the importance of cardiac rehabilitation following a cardiac event
or surgery, what it entails and how it benefits patients.
People who participate in a 36-week rehab program have a 47% lower risk of death and 31%
lower risk of heart attack than those who attend only one session, according One Million Hearts,
a national campaign co-led by the Centers for Disease Control and Centers for Medicare &
Medicaid Services, aimed at reducing cardiovascular disease occurrences nationwide.
“Not only does cardiac rehab reduce your risk of future cardiac events and improve your heart,
but it includes valuable education for patients,” said Britney Caldwell, a cardiac rehab nurse at
CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs. “The education involved is valuable, as
it educates our patients on how to take care of their heart when they are away from the hospital.”
Patients in cardiac rehab programs must be referred by a physician. Once in the program,
patients learn about weight and medication management, receive diet consultations and are
monitored for blood pressure and lipid levels to ensure their rehab plan is effective.
Jeromy O’dell, 53, was referred for cardiac rehab in 2024 after undergoing a cardiac procedure.
He recently completed the recommended 36-sesson program, which consisted of three sessions a
week at 30 minutes, minimum, per session.
“I had such a great experience with my rehab program,” O’dell said. “There are times where it
can be tough but knowing the benefits of rehab and having the experience I did, I would
recommend to anyone who needs it.”
Despite the benefits, cardiac rehab remains underutilized, particularly among women and
minorities, according to the American Heart Association (AHA). AHA reports that only 19-34%
of patients participate in a cardiac rehab program.
“I have had patients before telling me, ‘I am too old to start, or I can’t work these machines’ as
we discuss a rehab program,” said Caldwell. “We find that once we can get patients to rehab,
introduce them to the program, they realize how great it makes them feel and they want to
continue.”
Caldwell said there are programs to help mitigate some of the barriers that may prevent a patient
from participating in rehab, adding “We know everyone is different, so every plan is
individualized to maximize our patients’ abilities. We congratulate anyone who shows up and
takes control of their heart health.”
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No New Pennies – Will the Dollar Be Next?
February 10, 2025 – On February 9, 2025, President Donald Trump announced that he had directed the U.S. Treasury Department to halt the production of new pennies, citing the rising costs associated with minting the one-cent coin. In a post on the social media platform Truth Social, he emphasized that the country has been minting pennies “which literally cost us more than 2 cents” for “far too long.”
The cost of producing a penny has exceeded its face value for 19 consecutive years, leading to financial losses for the government. In 2025, the production cost of a single penny was reported to be approximately 2.1 cents, more than double its monetary worth.
The decision to cease penny production revives a longstanding debate about the coin’s relevance and economic impact. Critics argue that eliminating the penny could lead to rounding issues in cash transactions, potentially affecting consumers and businesses. However, proponents of discontinuation highlight the financial inefficiencies and environmental concerns associated with continued penny production.
The move aligns with broader governmental efforts to reduce waste and improve efficiency. The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a cost-cutting task force led by Elon Musk, has been evaluating various areas of federal spending, including the production of low-denomination coins.
While the President has directed the Treasury to stop minting new pennies, the process of discontinuing the coin entirely may require legislative action from Congress. As the situation develops, further discussions and analyses are expected to address the implications for the economy and daily transactions.
Master Gardener Ronnie Wilson Visited on This Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey
On this episode of KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Office Master Gardener Ronnie Wilson dropped by to chat about planting. John Mark and Ronnie discussed how we still could get a freeze. They also talked about what plants you want to plant during this time of year, what type of weed killer you want to put out during the current season, the fact that the time for pruning is nearing an end, the series of workshops the AgiLife Extension Office Master Gardeners will be offering to the public in the upcoming months, and so much more. Learn how to exercise your “green thumb” on this exciting episode of KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey!
SSHS Senior Jordan VanWinkle Stopped by for a Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey
Sulphur Springs High School Senior Jordan VanWinkle, an intern at the Hopkins County office of the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, sat down with John Mark Dempsey on this episode of KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee. Jordan shared with John Mark how she is spearheading a program for female trustees at the Hopkins County jail. The project will involve the building of a greenhouse and will use hydroponics to grove fruits and vegetables. Jordan is just one example of the talent and ambition that is the Sulphur Springs Wildcats! Watch the segment below and learn what impressive steps Jordan VanWinkle has taken, and is continuing to take, to make this idea a reality!
SSHS Wildcats Competed Against North Lamar in Basketball February 7th
February 9, 2025 – The Sulphur Springs High School Wildcats challenged North Lamar in a friendly game of basketball on February 7, 2025. The fierce competition was played in Wildcat Gym in Sulphur Springs, Texas. Below is KSST’s coverage of this exciting game. KSST’s Sports Director John Mark Dempsey called play by play while Tony Flippin offered color commentary. Be sure to check out this thrilling game below.
A&M University System Board of Regents Approved a $63.4 million Event Center/Arena Project at East Texas A&M University
February 9, 2025 – In their meeting on Friday, the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents approved a $63.4 million Event Center/Arena Project at East Texas A&M University.
A news release from the A&M System says, “This modern multi-use arena will serve as a venue for intercollegiate sports and community events, increasing campus visibility and engagement. “ Construction is scheduled to begin in March.
The East Texas A&M Lion Athletics Facebook page shared artistic renderings of the exterior and interior of the building on Friday.
There was no information provided on the plans for the ET A&M Field House, the current basketball and volleyball arena, which was built in 1950.
Also from the A&M System … Texas A&M University is targeting a long-term commitment to in-space research on the International Space Station under a proposal approved Fri day by the Texas A&M University System’s Board of Regents.
The Board authorized President Mark A. Welsh III to negotiate a contract with AEGIS Aerospace, which would allow Aggie engineering students to conduct in-space experiments.
Paris District Road Report for Week of February 10, 2025
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in the district for the week starting February 10, 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: Impaired driving and penalties – DUI & DWI
Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs can risk your life and the lives of others, and it can send you to jail. If you are under 21, it is illegal for you to drive with any detectable amount of alcohol in your system.
When am I legally intoxicated?
You are legally intoxicated in Texas when your blood alcohol concentration reaches 0.08 percent, but you are breaking the law as soon as drugs or alcohol affect your driving — or flying or boating — ability.
What are the penalties for a DWI?
First offense
- Up to a $2,000 fine.
- Up to 180 days in jail upon conviction with three mandatory days.
- Loss of driver license up to a year.
Second offense
- Up to a $4,000 fine.
- One month to a year in jail upon conviction.
- Loss of driver license up to two years.
Third offense
- A $10,000 fine.
- Two to 10 years in prison.
- Loss of driver license up to two years.
These fines do not include a state fine of $3,000, $4,500, or $6,000 assessed upon sentencing.
Impaired driving with a child passenger
- You will be charged with child endangerment if you’re driving impaired with children under 15.
- You will be additionally fined up to $10,000.
- You could be put in jail for up to two years.
- You will lose your driver’s license for another 180 days.
Driving with an open container
Carrying an open container of alcohol in your vehicle, even if you’re not impaired, is illegal. Learn more about Texas open container laws.
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:
The annual crack seal contract to place sealant in the pavement cracks on roadways in Grayson County is underway. The following roadways will receive a crack seal: Spur 316 from SH 289 to FM 120, FM 120 in Denison from Houston Avenue to FM 1753, US 69 in Denison from Houston Avenue SH 56, FM 1417 from FM 691 to US 82, US 82 from FM 901 to FM 1417, US 82 frontage roads from FM 1417 to FM 1417, SH 56 from US 82 to SH 289, Spur 129 from US 377 to SH 56, FM 1417 from SH 56 to SH 11, SH 289 in Gunter from Kerfoot Road to Elm Street, FS 121 from FM 121 to the Denton County line, SH 5 in Van Alstyne from Redden Road to the Collin County line, SH 56 from SH 11 to FM 1417, SH 11 from SH 56 to FM 697, FM 902 in Tom Bean from SH 11 to King Street. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
US 75, from SH 91 (Texoma Parkway) to US 82. Construction on this project is expected to begin on February 19th. 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.
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.
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, 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, at the US 82 intersection. Watch for occasional lane closures for the frontage roads on the northbound and southbound US 75 frontage road lanes between South Loy Lake Road and Lamberth Street, as well as on the eastbound and westbound US 82 frontage road lanes between FM 131 and Loy Lake Road while crews work on completing the remaining work at the intersection.
SH 289, in Dorchester at the FM 902 intersection. Construction on this project is expected to begin on February 20th. 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. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
US 69, in Whitewright at the SH 11 and SH 160 intersection. This project will install traffic signals at this intersection. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures on US 69 and SH 11 as crews work to install the signal. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
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 377, from US 82 to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for daytime lane closures on US 377 as crews work to install rumble strips, backfill the pavement and seed the front slopes. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as pilot cars and 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 Cooke County line to FM 131 in Sherman. Watch for lane closures as workers replace the bridge railing and guardrail approaches at each bridge structure and install median barrier. During construction, bridge travel will be reduced to one lane while crews replace the bridge railing. Currently, the contractor is working on the eastbound and westbound US 82 lanes at SH 56, and the eastbound and westbound US 82 lanes at the Union Pacific Railroad overpass. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures while workers perform bridge repairs.
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.
SH 56, from SH 11 to the Fannin County Line. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform spot milling on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 1417, from FM 691 to FM 120. 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.
FM 1417 Proposed (East side of Sherman), from SH 56 to US 82. 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:
The annual crack seal contract to place sealant in the pavement cracks on roadways in Fannin County is underway. The following roadways will receive a crack seal: FM 2029 from FM 273 to FM 1396, FM 100 from FM 273 to FM 2216, FM 2216 from FM 100 to the Lamar County line, FM 1752 from US 82 to FM 898, SH 78 from US 82 to SH 56, Loop 205 from 9th Street to SH 56, SH 34 from SH 56 to FM 64, SH 11 from US 69 to the Hunt County line, FM 896 from Business SH 121 to US 69, FM 815 from Business US 69 to SH 78, US 69 from FM 896 to FM 272, and FM 1553 from SH 78 to SH 78. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
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.
SH 121 overpass at US 69. The SH 121 overpass at US 69 is closed to thru traffic while crews perform bridge repairs. All traffic will be required to take the exit for US 69 and then will be able to take the next entrance ramp back onto SH 121. A temporary signal is in place to control traffic on SH 121 and US 69 during this closure. Motorists should expect delays as signals control traffic through the construction zone.
CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek. CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek has an onsite detour in place to allow for replacement of the bridge. Traffic is asked to approach the detour shift slowly and drive an appropriate speed through the work zone while crews replace the bridge structure.
CR 4020 at Caney Creek. CR 4020 at Caney Creek has been reopened to through traffic as construction on this project is now complete.
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.
FM 100, from SH 56 to FM 2216. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 1550, from SH 34 to CR 3610. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews perform base repairs on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 2815, from FM 1629 to SH 11. 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.
SH 121, from SH 56 to SH 11. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform a sweeping operation to remove loose material from the roadway. Motorists should expect delays from the mobile operation in 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. Watch for crews performing drainage structure work. Expect slower moving traffic.
Hopkins County: Timber Creek Bridge. Watch for crews performing work on the roadway approach to the newly constructed bridge.
Hopkins County: IH 30, from Franklin County Line to Hunt County Line. Watch for crews performing bridge maintenance. Expect slower moving traffic.
Franklin County: SH 37, from US 67 to FM 71. Watch for crews performing joint sealing at bridge and guardrail locations. Watch for flaggers and slower moving traffic.
Franklin County: IH 30 Truck Parking. Watch for crews performing paving operations for the entrance and exits of the newly constructed Eastbound truck parking 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:
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.
FM 1497, from FM 1184 to FM 3426. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures
US 82 / Lamar Avenue, from 33rd street to 42nd street in Paris. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures in the nighttime hours while crews improve signals, install a raised center median, and resurface the roadway.
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.
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:
FM 2068 at East Fork of Jernigan Creek. The roadway is now reopened. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews replace existing bridge structure.
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 at East Langford Creek. Watch for temporary roadway closure and detour while crews perform bridge maintenance operations.
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 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 grading in the area. Excavation, flex base and flowable fill operations are ongoing. Work is currently ongoing at the Middle Sulphur River relief structure Mow strip work and metal beam guard fence work is ongoing. 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 is currently finishing cement treatment work on the second mile of the project and will begin prime coat and ride test soon. New guard rail placement is completed and work on mow strip is ongoing. Backfill work and slope work are ongoing near Bridge location. Fog seal work was completed on the first mile. Driveways are ongoing and are being completed by section of work. 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 currently has paving operations and sidewalk operations ongoing. Contractor is forming rebar and working block outs for driveways near Peppergrass. Inlet prep work and installation are ongoing. Railroad coordination is underway near FM 2642 and SH 66, work will begin soon in this area. Traffic switch coordination is ongoing and signs will be placed soon alerting the traveling public. Please 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 begun replacing culverts and bridge structures. Contractor graded ditches and set driveway and culvert pipes along with SET’s. Roadway reclamation has been completed for 3900 feet of the project. Reworking of base material is ongoing and drainage structure work is ongoing. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 intersection improvements from Monte Stratton to FM 1903. The contractor has set barricades and advance warning signs. The contractor has begun excavation at FM 1903 (West side) and working on placing wire wall at FM 1903 (East side) and soil nail walls at FM 1903.The contractor is also placing embankment & Wire walls east of 1570.along with form work for Bent #3 Cap at FM 1570. Beams will be set on FM 1570 WB on 2/6 and 2/7. There will be approximately (18) heavy trucks on 2/6 and (9) trucks on 2/7. The contractor will stage the trucks at Buccee’s in Royse City and bring them into Greenville, Tx. In order to make the WBML movement, they will need to turnaround at the IH 30 & SH 34/ Wesley St. Intersection. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Improvements from CR2511 to FM 36: The contractor will be moving barrier during nighttime lane closures and milling shoulders. Contractor has ongoing box culvert work near FM 1565 plans to restore the frontage road pavement during this time. Temporary walls are being installed and dirt work with detours are ongoing throughout the project.
Hunt and Rains Counties Hunt County and Rains maintenance crews will be performing pothole and sign repair work throughout Hunt and Rains County.
Hunt and Rains County maintenance sections will be working on SH 66 and FM 36 in Caddo Mills to resurface a section of the highway with milling and inlay. Later a striping crew will restripe this area to add a left turn lane. Culvert work is ongoing at Division and IH 30 frontage roads. Work is also ongoing on FM 272 near Celeste for shoulder repair and level up. This work will be to aid travelers in this area at the intersection during peak travel times.
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Texas Game Wardens Uncover Illegal White-Tailed Deer Smuggling Operation
February 7, 2025 – AUSTIN – Texas Game Wardens have concluded an investigation that led to the arrest and conviction of two individuals involved in illegally moving captive white-tailed deer.
A South Texas deer breeder and his business partner were caught attempting to smuggle seven deer from a licensed deer breeding facility in East Texas through Montgomery County to Brazoria and Duval counties, where they intended to illegally release the deer into the wild on private property.
The case unfolded when a Montgomery County Game Warden conducted a traffic stop and discovered the illegally possessed deer being transported without required documentation or identification. Further investigation uncovered significant violations of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) statutes and regulations, as well as criminal and traffic violations. Both individuals were arrested and booked into Montgomery County Jail.
The deer breeder faced 41 total charges: one traffic code violation, 11 penal code violations and 29 deer breeder violations under the Texas Administrative Code and Parks and Wildlife Code. He pleaded guilty to three penal code violations and 29 deer breeder violations. His business partner was charged with two penal code violations and 28 deer breeder violations, of which he was convicted.
Both men were convicted on multiple counts of violations committed with the intent to circumvent disease monitoring and testing requirements. Violations included failure to conduct ante-mortem chronic wasting disease (CWD) testing, failure to obtain valid transfer permits, removal of breeder deer without required identification and illegal possession of live game animals. Combined, they were convicted of a total of 57 deer breeder violations, one alcohol and two dangerous drug violations. They received a total $12,060 in fines.
This case underscores the commitment of TPWD and Texas Game Wardens to protecting the state’s natural resources and upholding wildlife regulations. The possession and movement of deer are regulated, among other reasons, to mitigate the spread of diseases like CWD and to ensure the health of both captive and free-ranging wildlife populations. Anytime a white-tailed deer leaves a breeding facility, it must be uniquely and permanently identified, no matter its age. Breeder deer that have not been properly identified or have had their identification hidden or illegally changed or removed are commonly referred to as “ghost deer.”
“Flagrant violations, such as intentionally transferring deer without identifiers, hinder Texas’ ability to identify the source of a deer in the event of a disease detection,” said Col. Ronald VanderRoest, TPWD Law Enforcement Director. “This creates the potential for negative impacts to the health of both captive and free ranging deer populations, the deer breeder industry, landowners, hunters and Texas’ outdoor and rural based economies, where white-tailed deer hunting has a $9.6 billion annual economic contribution.”
“This case perfectly illustrates the dedication and hard work of Texas Game Wardens by not only uncovering the defendant’s illegal operation but also highlighting the importance of protecting our state’s natural resources,” said Ann Kuykendall, Montgomery County assistant district attorney. “This prosecution sends a clear message: those who knowingly violate these laws will be held accountable.”
With no available site for return, their unknown disease status and the unacceptable risks associated with their release into the wild, the “ghost deer” in this case were euthanized in accordance with protocols related to disease testing. The type of activity the suspects were participating in led TPWD to believe a heightened risk of disease exposure existed. Fortunately, the epidemiological investigation revealed no detection of CWD.
About Texas Game Wardens
Texas Game Wardens, within the Law Enforcement Division of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, are responsible for enforcing laws related to the conservation and management of natural resources and public safety through community-based law enforcement. Their mission is to provide hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. Additionally, they play a crucial role in search and rescue operations during natural disasters, exemplifying their commitment to protecting both the environment and the people of Texas.
House Speaker Dustin Burrows Confident School Vouchers Will Pass This Time
February 7, 2025 – House Speaker Dustin Burrows remains optimistic about the prospects of the school voucher bill, confidently predicting its passage in the Texas House. The proposed legislation aims to empower parents by providing public funds to help cover the costs of private education, thereby expanding the range of educational options available to Texas families. According to Speaker Burrows, this bill reflects a bold step toward reforming the education system and addressing disparities among schools.
Despite the record setting speed SB 2 demonstrated while sailing though the the Senate, the journey through the House will be much slower.
During recent House sessions, Burrows highlighted that the voucher bill is a direct response to growing demand for increased educational flexibility and parental control. He asserted that giving parents a choice in selecting the best learning environment for their children would foster healthy competition among schools and drive improvements in academic standards. “This legislation is not about undermining public education; it’s about ensuring every child has access to quality schooling,” Burrows stated, emphasizing that competition can be a catalyst for positive change in both public and private sectors.
Supporters of the bill argue that the initiative will benefit underperforming districts and provide relief to families in economically challenged communities. They maintain that the voucher system can serve as a practical complement to existing educational programs, potentially spurring innovation and accountability in schools statewide. While opponents caution that diverting funds could strain public schools, many legislators believe that offering parents more options will ultimately elevate educational outcomes for all students.
