The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is proposing to widen SH 42 from US 80 to IH 20 in Gregg County, Texas. The project includes expanding the existing two-lane roadway to a four-lane divided highway with a flush 16-foot median. The total distance of the project is approximately 5.99 miles.
The project will require approximately 90.7 acres of new right-of-way (ROW) and 0.8 acres of temporary construction easement. The proposed project would displace 6 residences and 5 commercial structures.
Proposed Improvements
Enhancements to this corridor would include:
- Widening from a two-lane road to a four-lane roadway with flush median, with curb and gutter to accommodate expected growth in traffic
- Adding a continuous center left-turn lane to provide additional safety
- Redesigning the roadway’s alignment to improve grades and curves
The bridges over the Sabine River, as well two Sabine River Relief Bridges and a Union Pacific Railroad Bridge will be replaced and widened to accommodate the additional travel lanes.
Proposed Timeline
- Spring 2020 – Opportunity for public hearing
- Fall 2020 – Preferred alternative route finalized and environmentally cleared
- 2021 – Right-of-way acquisitions begin
- Summer 2023 – Right-of-way acquisitions and construction plans completed
- 2024 – Start construction
Braun & Gresham, PLLC attorneys can help.
Texas has been aggressively acquiring private land through condemnation for transportation projects across the state to accommodate the needs of a growing population. If you have been contacted by TxDOT or any of their representatives, please contact us immediately. The important thing to remember is that even if you’ve received a letter in the mail from a condemnation entity informing you of their intentions, this does not mean that it’s a done deal. There are many ways to influence the condemnation process to ensure that your wants and needs are met, but it’s important that you involve knowledgeable professionals that can help guide you through the process.