By Julie Anderson, Editor The Worley Bridge had become a familiar friend, emitting a metallic message of squeaks and creaks that reminded many in Milam County of its storied past. Six generations had crossed the bridge, carting their families, crops, and supplies across the San Gabriel River. Built in 1911, the 272-foot-long iron truss bridge sits adjacent to the Apache … [Read more...] about Replace or Restore?
Road & Bridge
Key Concept: Required Road Report
Key Question: Are County Commissioners required to file an annual Road Report? Reference Point: Texas Transportation Code Chapters 251 and 252 Chapter 251.004 of the Transportation Code states that County Commissioners are the supervisors of the public roads in a county unless the county adopts an optional system of administering the county roads under Chapter 252 of … [Read more...] about Key Concept: Required Road Report
New Tools Promote Traffic Safety in Work Zones
By Howard McCann, P. E The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) recently initiated the use of two new safety tools that are available to county road crews: Automated Flagger Assistance Devices (AFADs) and Work Zone Temporary Rumble Strips. An AFAD is a “flagger assist” device that allows flaggers to remotely control traffic while being positioned out of the lane of … [Read more...] about New Tools Promote Traffic Safety in Work Zones
Kaufman County Previews Distracted Driving Campaign: Software, Simulator Portray Devastating Outcome
Kaufman County officials and employees were given a close-up look at the dangers of distracted driving in late June when the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) asked them to participate in a campaign using specialized software and a simulator to demonstrate just how quickly distractions can lead to devastation. All officials will be introduced to this campaign at the … [Read more...] about Kaufman County Previews Distracted Driving Campaign: Software, Simulator Portray Devastating Outcome
Street Smart: Precinct, Countywide Road Systems Meet Varied Needs
When it comes to a county road, there’s a great deal beneath the surface. Just ask Hill County Commissioner Steven Sulak. In the November 2012 election, 61 percent of Hill County voters cast their ballots in favor of a transition from the Ex Officio Road System, known as the precinct system, to the County Road Department System, commonly referred to as the unit system, which … [Read more...] about Street Smart: Precinct, Countywide Road Systems Meet Varied Needs