The Texas Department of Transportation for Lamar County and surrounding counties has approved several highway development projects.
“We have been presented an opportunity of a lifetime to propel the economic development of northeast Texas, and Lamar County in particular, to the next level,” said Lamar County Judge Chuck Superville.
The approved projects would see Highway 82 from Bonham and Highway 271 south from Loop 286 to FM 196 become four lanes.
“If we are able to complete these two major highway corridors, it will place Lamar County at the literal crossroads of major multi-lane highways,” said Superville.
Superville said the upgrades offer great connectivity in all directions to some of the largest industrial and commercials hubs in the country and world.
“In general, a number of projects have been approved, but not all have been funded and we are working hard to get them funded.”
With all the projects for four-lane highways into Paris approved, a study on Loop 286 and its ability to handle the increased traffic is being discussed.
“This will not happen overnight and will not happen without a great deal of patience, mature, diligent, and professional work and cooperation among a large number of entities and individuals,” said Superville.
Current construction on Highway 19/24 south to I 30 is expected to be finished this summer.
The production of schematics on 271 south from Pattonville to the Titus County line has been approved (not yet funded). This will pass though Lamar, Red River, Franklin, and Titus counties and ultimately connect with I 30.
Approved and funded projects:
- Highway 82 from Bonham easy to the Fannin/Lamar county line has been approved and funded in the approximate amount of $70 million. Construction will begin this winter.
- Highway 271 south from the loop in Paris to FM196 in Pattonville had been approved and fully funded in the amount of $26.7 million. This is approximately 8 miles.
