LUFKIN – A public hearing on proposed improvements to US 59 from Shepherd to the Trinity River is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 19, in the Shepherd High School cafeteria, 1 Pirate Lane, in Shepherd. The proposed construction project is being designed to upgrade the roadway to meet interstate standards.
The public is invited to attend and view the proposed schematic of the project, speak to TxDOT officials, and leave comments. All comments must be received online, in person, or postmarked by January 10, 2025.
The proposed improvements to US 59 will include the reconstruction of US 59 main lanes providing two lanes in each direction, and the construction of a new one-way, two-lane northbound and southbound frontage roads. The project will be designed to meet interstate standards for potential future designation as I-69.
Proposed improvements also include the construction of new Trinity River bridges with turnarounds (U-turns); overpasses with U-turns at FM 1127 and SL424/Lake Pool Road; a U-turn at FM 223 from southbound US 59 to northbound US 59; and pedestrian accommodations along the frontage roads from FM 223 (Church Street) north to SL 424/Lake Pool Road.
The existing right-of-way ranges between 190 and 456 feet. The proposed improvements would require additional right-of-way ranging between 455 and 835 feet.
The proposed project is approximately six miles in length and extends from the city of Shepherd in San Jacinto County to north of the Trinity River in Polk County. The proposed project is anticipated to enhance safety, improve mobility, provide a more efficient hurricane evacuation route, and provide system connectivity to I-69.
Schematic and environmental studies will be done through early 2025, with right-of-way acquisitions and utility relocations tentatively scheduled for 2025–2028.
For more information, visit txdot.gov and search “US 59 Upgrade Shepherd to Trinity River”, or contact Rhonda.Oaks@txdot.gov or call (936) 633-4395.
