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Construction

TxDOT Starts $28M Construction on FM 2590 in Amarillo & Canyon

2024-12-05

Amarillo, Texas is witnessing yet another significant construction project on FM 2590, also known as VFW Road. This $28 million initiative from South State Loop 335 to US 60 in Canyon has kicked off this week. On average, an impressive 6,000 to 10,000 people traverse these roads daily. The project encompasses essential elements such as traffic light installations and the creation of right and left turn lanes at key intersections like Country Club Road, Hunsley Road, Lair Road, and McCormick Road. Additionally, crews are focused on drainage upgrades and overlay operations.

Business Perspectives on the Construction

Jordon Snider, the owner of Sticky Chikky, has voiced concerns about the traffic congestion and safety issues during busy times. "Especially in the busy periods, the cars back up significantly, and with a speed limit of 55 miles per hour, stopping to turn on McCormick off of VFW and Soncy becomes quite dangerous. A light and a turning lane are clearly needed," he stated. Despite the challenges, local businesses like Sticky Chikky are looking forward to the updates. "It's going to be a net positive. Although we'll experience some growing pains during the construction, it will ultimately be beneficial for the community and the surrounding businesses. In the end, easier access and more traffic will lead to more business, which is great," added Snider.The construction is set to have a profound impact on the local business landscape. It will not only improve traffic flow but also enhance the overall accessibility and convenience for both residents and visitors. This, in turn, is expected to boost economic activities and stimulate growth in the area.

Traffic and Safety Implications

The increased traffic volume due to the construction poses significant challenges for both drivers and pedestrians. TxDOT emphasizes the importance of driving with caution and reducing speeds in the work zones. With the addition of traffic lights and turn lanes, the aim is to minimize accidents and ensure the safety of all road users. The project team is working diligently to manage the traffic flow and keep the construction area as safe as possible.Moreover, the drainage upgrades are crucial for preventing flooding and maintaining the integrity of the roads. The overlay operations will also improve the surface quality and durability of the pavement, reducing the need for frequent repairs in the future.

Funding and Timing Considerations

Many have expressed concerns about the sheer number of projects happening in the Amarillo District. TxDOT explains that one of the main factors is funding. When funds become available and the deadline to use them approaches, projects like this one move forward. "It's a matter of timing and funding and contractor availability. If we don't utilize the funds, we might miss the opportunity, and some much-needed projects could be delayed," said Jason Britsch, spokesperson for TxDOT Amarillo District. The agency is committed to managing the projects efficiently and ensuring that the benefits outweigh the temporary disruptions.Despite the challenges, the Amarillo District remains focused on improving the infrastructure and providing better services to the community. The VFW Road project is just one of many initiatives aimed at enhancing the transportation network and promoting economic development.The project on VFW is expected to be completed in early 2027, bringing much-needed improvements to the area. TxDOT thanks the public for their patience and cooperation during the construction process.

Fort Myers, Florida has witnessed a concerning trend at The Alary apartment complex. A construction crew is now taking extensive precautions due to the complex being broken into not once, not twice, but a third time. This has led to significant disruptions and financial losses.

Unraveling the Mystery of Breaker Box Thefts at The Alary

First Incident and Its Aftermath

The first instance of the break-in occurred on Thanksgiving night. As the construction team returned on Friday, they were shocked to find the boxes tampered with. General Superintendent Martin McGuire informed our reporter Miyoshi Price that a total of 35 units were found without circuit breakers. This theft amounted to more than $21,500, causing a major setback to the construction progress.It's puzzling to think that someone would target these circuit breakers. McGuire shared his thoughts, saying, "I don't have an answer for that. I believe there might be more value for the smaller ones, easier to take. I don't understand why they do that, either. This seems to be maybe a supply issue."

Second and Third Break-ins: A Pattern Emerges

This isn't an isolated incident. It's the third time people have come onto the property to steal the breakers. The fact that it has happened multiple times raises questions about the security measures in place and the motivation behind these thefts.Another representative pointed out that the thieves seemed to have a preference for the left side of the breaker box over the right. This detail adds another layer of mystery to the case.

Reinforcements and Investigative Efforts

Every unit at The Alary must have an electrical panel for lights and accessories, and as a result, there are reinforcements in place. On Tuesday, McGuire informed Price that the Lee County Sheriff's Office had stepped in to help set up cameras and assist in the investigation. This shows the community's determination to address the issue and bring the culprits to justice.The continuous thefts have not only affected the construction process but also raised concerns among the residents. It's a situation that requires a comprehensive solution to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone at The Alary.

In Henderson this December, a brand new hospital is set to welcome its first patients. The West Henderson Hospital, which broke ground in March 2022, has now been completed. FOX5's Joe Vigil was among the first to get a glimpse.

Significance of the Project

Beyond simply bringing a much-needed hospital to the community, this $230 million project holds significant importance for multiple reasons. As explained by Bret Loughridge, president of SR Construction, the team was faced with a desired budget and a project completion deadline while the plans were still in progress. By utilizing their unique "SR Built" Process, they were able to provide the owner with certainty in terms of time and budget. Working collaboratively with the design teams and the owner, a project solution was developed that met the desired goals, and the hospital was ultimately completed on time and approximately 4% under budget. Traditional construction methods could have added up to 18 months of additional work, but SR Construction ensured the hospital was built on time and within budget.The seven-story facility is equipped with an array of essential services. It features 150 inpatient beds, an emergency room to handle critical situations promptly, comprehensive cardiology services for heart-related care, a state-of-the-art radiology lab for accurate diagnoses, and a pharmacy to ensure patients have access to their medications.SE Construction emphasizes that the facility is master-planned for growth, with the potential to expand to 4550 beds as the demand for healthcare services continues to increase. This forward-thinking approach ensures that the hospital can meet the evolving needs of the community in the years to come.The opening of the West Henderson Hospital is a significant milestone for Henderson and the surrounding areas. It represents a commitment to providing high-quality healthcare services and improving the well-being of the local population. With its modern facilities and efficient construction process, it sets a new standard for healthcare facilities in the region.