By Michael V. Hannigan/HCN
Two Henderson County lawmakers asked for Texas Transportation Commission Chairman J. Bruce Bugg, Jr.’s support for the Highway 334 bridge project on Cedar Creek Lake.
State Rep. Lance Gooden and State Sen. Robert Nichols sent separate letters to the chairman this month ahead of the upcoming Transportation Commission meeting.
“This project has been a priority of mine,” wrote Gooden, “the chamber of commerce, businesses and area residents in my district for several years. Senator Robert Nichols and I agree this is one of the greatest transportation needs in Henderson County. This is not simply a convenience issue, but a safety issue.”
Nichols wrote, “The bridge over Cedar Creek Lake is currently two lanes and the area has been growning significantly. It is inadequate to support existing traffic levels, and this project is especially needed when considering communities have been isolated from emergency services when the road is closed, or there is an accident that prevents passing.”
The two lawmakers are hoping to speed up construction of the new bridge, which was pushed back to 2023/2024 because of funding concerns.
In an email shared with local media, Cedar Creek Lake Area Chamber of Commerce President Jo Ann Hanstrom wrote to Gooden, “I know that both of you have worked behind the scenes to see that this project gets funded and will finally (at some point) be a reality for the Cedar Creek Lake citizens and our visitors. Your dedication to this issue is very much appreciated.”