Piney Woods Sub-Regional Planning Commission

State Rep. McReynolds To Speak at PWSRPC Meeting

Submitted by Jan Tracy
Shelby County Today

The Piney Woods Sub-Regional Planning Commission (PWSRPC) will hold its next meeting on Tuesday, July 28, at 6 PM at the Nacogdoches County Courthouse Annex.

Guest speaker will be Texas State Rep. Jim McReynolds. The public is encouraged to attend and will be invited to ask questions. Representative McReynolds will explain new laws that were passed in the 2009 legislative session and how those laws will affect East Texas and our local economy.

The PWSRPC is currently gathering information to draft a Rural Transportation Plan for Nacogdoches and the surrounding counties and is asking the public to submit their suggestions for improving local transportation. The upgrading of Hwy 59 to Interstate status remains a key issue for our area as any traffic that is routed through or around Lufkin and Nacogdoches will impact nearby businesses and affect local traffic flow.

Traffic congestion continues to be a problem at certain sections along Hwy 59. TxDOT is currently restudying a plan that was devised several years ago for a loop/by-pass around Lufkin and Nacogdoches.

This loop/by-pass system has 2 major issues that will affect our local economy and everyday means of travel. The first issue concerns accessibility of local roadways and the second is financing for the construction. Thru traffic will need easy access on and off of this ‘loop’ to visit our local businesses. Accesses for local traffic for driving to work or school and for emergency vehicles will need to be considered. The financing method chosen for this ‘loop’ will dictate whether or not a toll will be collected and who will own the toll money.

If you are unable to attend this meeting but would like to submit comments or ask questions please contact State Representative Jim McReynolds at 936-634-9786 or call 936-462-8848 for further information.

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