On the surface, roadways seem understandably impersonal. Whether they are gravel or concrete, their finite function is to transport people and goods. But against the backdrop of county government, roads and the issues they bring to the commissioners court are often personal and anything but simple. Consider the history between the commissioner and the road. Before … [Read more...] about Street Smart
Road & Bridge
Ellis County Works to Strengthen Roadbed
Ellis County Commissioner Larry Jones was looking for more cost-effective methods to construct roads with greater strength and longer service life. A lifelong resident of Ellis County, Jones had seen the problem getting worse as more people moved in and, consequently, his roads were carrying traffic loads well beyond what they were designed to do. He also knew his … [Read more...] about Ellis County Works to Strengthen Roadbed
Special Road and Bridge Product Spotlight
Special Road and Bridge Product Spotlight Asphalt Zipper Revolutionizing Texas County Road Budgets Counties across Texas concerned with limited budget resources are turning to an innovative new machine, the Asphalt Zipper, to squeeze more out of their budgets and achieve longer-lasting results. The Zipper can save 50 percent to 70 percent or more and increase … [Read more...] about Special Road and Bridge Product Spotlight
County Road Administrator
Of the 254 counties in Texas, approximately 190 counties still operate under the commissioner system. Under this plan each commissioner is responsible for the supervision of the road and bridge crew in his precinct. There are approximately 64 counties that have opted to use the unit system. This can only be accomplished through an election, passing with a majority vote … [Read more...] about County Road Administrator
Pipeline Safety 101
Training Helps Prepare First Responders With more than 2 million miles of pipeline crisscrossing the United States, pipeline safety is a key component of first responder training. As awareness of this issue spreads, counties are better preparing themselves for potential pipeline emergencies. The Danielle Dawn Smalley Foundation, based in Crandall, provides pipeline safety … [Read more...] about Pipeline Safety 101