Rockwall, Texas – The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), in collaboration with Rockwall County, is inviting the public to participate in both virtual and in-person meetings about proposed improvements for Farm-to-Market Road 3097 (Horizon Road) from Tubbs Road to FM 549. The project spans across the cities of Rockwall and Heath within Rockwall County.
The planned enhancements aim at widening Horizon Road’s current two lanes into four wider ones separated by a raised median over an approximate distance of 1.9 miles. Additionally, eight to ten-foot-wide shared use paths are envisioned on either side of Horizon Road within the project limits.
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While these modifications necessitate acquiring approximately 8.4 acres more right-of-way (ROW), no residential or non-residential structures are expected to be displaced as per current forecasts.
TxDOT and Rockwall County seek public input about Horizon Road, meetings ahead
Public input remains critical throughout this process; hence, TxDOT has organized multiple platforms for residents to express their opinions on the project before the December 1, 2023, deadline.
Virtual meeting about the proposed Horizon Road improvement project
A virtual meeting will kick off proceedings starting Thursday, Nov. 16 through Dec., available round-the-clock on the ‘Keep It Moving Dallas’ webpage. This format allows individuals to view materials anytime during that period without it being a live event.
Those who can’t access the website or want to learn more about the project directly can call 214-320-6624 for inquiries and access to project materials. The line will be operational from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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In-person meeting about the proposed Horizon Road improvement project
An in-person meeting will be held on Nov. 16 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Cain Middle School Cafeteria, located in Rockwall, Texas. The open house format of the gathering allows attendees to come and go as per their convenience while providing them with hard copies of all relevant information regarding the proposed project.
The Horizon Road project is expected to impact a portion of an existing trail within City of Heath limits protected under Section 4f of the Department Transportation Act of 1966, running adjacent to FM3097 from Little Buffalo Creek up until FM549.
TxDOT plans on reconstructing part of this trail across tributary Little Buffalo Creek, accommodating the culvert extension proposal, but assures no modifications between the creek tributary and the FM549 stretch are intended.
TxDOT has taken into consideration potential environmental implications in Horizon Road improvement project in Rockwall County
Concerns about potential environmental implications have been addressed by TxDOT, which states that construction would involve wetlands action in floodplains, necessitating special attention during the execution phase to ensure minimal disruption of natural habitats in the area.
Interested parties can review maps, drawings showing tentative schedules, and other related documents either online or visit the TxDOT Dallas District Office Monday through Friday between business hours to inspect files personally.
Opinions from the public for the proposed Horizon Road improvement project can be sent via mail, email, or by phone
Public comments are highly encouraged and can be submitted in various ways, including by mail to the TxDOT Dallas District Office. Here are the details:
It is necessary for the public to provide comments on the proposed project, and they may do so by:
- Mail:
TxDOT Dallas District Office
Attn: Kibru Andargie, P.E.
4777 East US Highway 80
Mesquite, TX 75150 - Email: [email protected]
- Verbal comments: by calling 214-814-0855.
Virtual and in-person meetings to be held in English with translation to Spanish
Accessibility has been considered throughout this process. Both virtual and physical meetings will be conducted primarily in English; however, translation services can be arranged for those who do not speak English fluently or have difficulty communicating effectively in English. Similarly, special arrangements can accommodate the needs of persons with disabilities wishing to participate.
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TxDOT emphasizes that all comments must either reach them before or get postmarked at the latest by the December 1, 2023 deadline, ensuring each input gets its deserved consideration during the decision-making stages.
Responses addressing received comments will subsequently become available online on the project’s website once prepared adequately.
For any general questions or concerns regarding the proposed project format, both virtual and physical meetings, please feel free to contact Kibru Andargie Project Manager directly at 214-320-6244; alternatively, drop an email address mentioned within official notice.
The environmental review, consultation, and other actions required by federal environmental laws for this project are being carried out by TxDOT in accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding dated December 9, 2019. The document was executed by both the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and TxDOT under Section 23 U.S.C. 327.
This Horizon Road project is a significant undertaking that aims to improve traffic flow within Rockwall County while also ensuring pedestrian safety through shared use paths on both sides of FM3097. It will require careful planning and execution to minimize any potential impact on existing trails or local habitats, such as wetlands.
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TxDOT remains committed to keeping all stakeholders informed about every phase of this process, from design conception right up until the construction completion date.
The public’s participation during these meetings provides an invaluable opportunity for residents and businesses alike to share their insights and concerns, which could potentially shape the overall outcome.