TxDOT press release
Crews continue work to repair US 175 between FM 804 and Loop 60/FM 607 at LaRue, east of Athens in Henderson County. The roadway sustained a washout during Saturday’s rain and was shutdown overnight requiring the implementation of traffic detours.
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) advises motorists who use this portion of US 175 to allow extra time to reach their destinations until the repairs are completed. All eastbound traffic is being routed to FM 804 to bypass the closure while westbound traffic is redirected to Loop 60/FM 607.
According to TxDOT, the incident occurred at a drainage structure causing washout of the westbound lane embankment and slope. Crews immediately began to assess the damage, relieve flooding and mobilize to start repairs, moving in heavy equipment and personnel. Earlier this evening, portable lighting was delivered to the site to enable crews to work through the night.
The closure is also located within the Phase I US 175 Expansion project that runs from FM 804 near Baxter southeast to 1.1 miles east of Loop 60E at LaRue. The project contractors, A.L. Helmcamp and Big Creek Construction, are also conducting the repair work.
Detours are as follows until further notice:
- Eastbound: From US 175 take a left on FM 804, a right on FM 607, then a left on Loop 60 to arrive back at US 175
- Westbound: From US 175 turn right on Loop 60, then left on FM 607, and a left on FM 804 to arrive at US 175
Motorists are reminded to use caution when traveling through this area as some drivers may not be familiar with the detour locations.