By Michael V. Hannigan
Like a lot of folks in Athens this morning, I got to sit in construction traffic on Loop 7. … I waited 9 minutes before a pilot truck came and took us through.
I am not complaining, because I know I will be happy when the work is done. I’m just taking this opportunity to remind folks what’s happening. … This is from this week’s TxDOT update:
After being delayed by rain this past week, TxDOT contract crews on Monday are scheduled to begin seal coat operations on the following roadways:
– West Loop 7 between FM 59 and FM 1616
– FM 59 between SH 19 in Athens and FM 753
US 175 east of Athens between FM 804 and FM 315
TxDOT’s seal coat program seals nearly 300 centerline miles of roadway each summer, extending the maintenance-free service life of those roadways by as much as 10 years or more. Local TxDOT crews have been preparing sections of these roadways over the past year in preparation for sealing.
Daytime lane closures will be in effect in each location while the work is in progress, and flaggers will control traffic. Motorists are encouraged to seek alternate routes if possible to avoid long delays associated with the work.
You can read more about this project in a story written by the local TxDOT PIO.