It’s no secret Lubbock’s growing. The Texas Department of Transportation said they are trying to keep up with the growth with their Loop 88 project.
“Over the years we’ve seen segments or areas of Lubbock, especially in the south and the west, and what Loop 88 will do is provide another avenue for motorists,” Dianah Ascensio said. “For local traffic as well as commercial traffic to travel.”
The full project would span 36 miles in length. So far, they’ve been focusing on the segment of the project in South Lubbock that runs from Wolforth to U.S. 87 along FM 1585. TxDot hopes to begin construction there by 2021, but it could take 12-15 years. In the meantime, they want to begin planning the other 3 segments, including stretches along the west side of town connecting Shallowater to Wolforth.
TxDOT has notified home and landowners affected by the project, but Ascencio said they want the public’s input every step of the way. Tuesday night, they held a public meeting to hear from residents.
“I remember there were times when people were talking about 50th Street as being the edge of town and Loop 289 was way out in the country,” said resident David Uptain at the meeting. “I’m excited to know it will connect the airport to what could be a large growth pattern for Lubbock. I just hope that the project will bring more jobs and that the funding will be quick and we can start using it.”
For a full look at the plans, CLICK HERE.
To contact TxDOT with your input, CLICK HERE.