The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is set to begin work on a project that will extend SH 349 to directly connect with US 87. The $17.1 million project will build a new four-lane segment of SH 349, from SH 137 to US 87.
Construction work is scheduled to begin next week, with contractor Reece Albert, of San Angelo, Texas, setting traffic barriers along the projects limits, said Michael Wittie, P.E., TxDOT Brownfield Area engineer.
“In addition to building a new roadway, and making improvement to the SH 349/FM 2052 intersection tie-in, the project will also build two new bridges. Overpasses at the SH 137 intersection and at Sulphur Springs Draw will be constructed,” Wittie said. “The new segment of SH 349 will tie-in to US 87 just south of Lamesa.”
Motorists traveling on SH 349, FM 2025 and SH 137 should expect slow moving traffic, delays, lowered speed limits at various locations throughout the construction zone and duration of the project. Drivers are urged to use caution when driving through the work zone, since crews will be working in close proximity to traffic and should keep the following tips in mind:
- Slow down and always follow posted work zone speed limits. Speeding is one of the major causes of work zone crashes. Remember, traffic fines double in work zones
- Pay attention. Workers and heavy equipment may only be a few feet from passing vehicles
- Be patient. Delays from roadway construction can be frustrating, but it only takes a few extra minutes to slow down for a work zone.
The project is scheduled to be completed in summer 2018.
(News release from TxDOT)
