Meeting with TXDOT and James Construction

Friends,

Thursday afternoon, 2 P.M., the monthly meeting with TXDOT and James Construction took place.  Discussion centered on the following:

1.  The Holland Bridge.  Once, again, the information was that the repair of the bridge had been approved and that repairs would start soon.  Once, again, we said, "You said that last month.
If it is not done soon, the citizens are ready to sign a petition and send it to the Governor.  People are tired of waiting.  It does not take 8 months to solve a problem.  Enough is enough.  If it is not completed by mid-January, a letter will go forward."

2.  The 2484 bridge.  "You said last month that the new bridge would be completed and in use before Thanksgiving.  You also said that the old bridge would be destroyed before Thanksgiving.  Neither have happened."
Reply:  "We are almost there.  Concrete is being poured as we speak.  It will be done in the next few weeks.  We had an entire crew of 23 workers go back to Mexico for their annual Holiday period that will last for a month.

3.  The exit off 35 that ends at Old Town Road (Sewing Basket and Old Town Salado Shopping Center.  Is it going to happen?

Reply:"It is going to happen.  The plans are there and it will begin after the new year."

4.  Construction at Salado Plaza Road -- Cowboy intersection.  "You said there would not be any construction before or during the stroll.  You are putting in drainage culverts and blocks."

Reply:  "This will not take long.  We will get it done soon and there will be no more until after the new year."

5.  "The Village Officials will schedule a town hall meeting for late January or early February.  You are assured that the citizens will attend and their comments will be heard.  Not happy are kind words for their feelings.  The are tired and want this construction ended.  Promises are only good for so long.  They have been patient, but when one project is started and never finished, it is devastating."

There were other small items discussed before the meeting ended.

Weather has been a factor, but not that much.  Come the end of January, there will be a Town Hall meeting and you will be encouraged to attend and express your feelings.  If the weather is good and the Holland Bridge is not repaired by mid-January, a letter will be written to the Governor.  Enough time has elapsed and it is time for action.

VR/Skip