In a nutshell
Originally intended for a comprehensive reconstruction project, CR 137 has now been elevated in priority by council members and city staff for road improvements. Recent winter storms have severely degraded the road, making it barely drivable.
Council members met for a special meeting Jan. 25 to discuss funding options for the road work.
Rather than take away from other high-priority road projects, such as in the downtown area or on CR 133, council agreed to take the needed $200,000 from the budgeted crack and seal fund to go to temporary repairs for CR 137.
Looking ahead
At the earliest, residents can expect construction crews to start repairs in 45-60 days, City Manager James Earp said. The city must still conduct a bidding process for the project.
Mayor Mike Snyder expressed concerns about the state of the road, emphasizing its status as an emergency issue. Council members echoed these concerns, highlighting the proximity of multiple schools and the absence of alternative routes.
“If we communicate to the public, 'It's inconvenient, but it's passable,' they're gonna drag us out here in the street,” Snyder said. “I’m not leaving tonight and telling people it’s going to be 60 days.”
In an unanimous decision, council members declared CR 137 “to be an emergency situation that needs immediate repair due to numerous citizen complaints, safety issues on the road, reported damage and potential future damage to citizens' vehicles as they try to navigate the damaged roadway.”
One more thing
After inquiries from city staff, the Texas Department of Transportation began repairs Jan. 29 on nearby portions of FM 1660. Rain prevented earlier maintenance.
Residents can find more information on road projects planned and under construction on the city's capital improvement website.
