Article
Construction Progresses on Loy Lake Road
By Margie Morris
Construction on Sherman’s Loy Lake Road south of 82 is scheduled for completion in March, 2007. While inconvenient for residents and business owners along the route, the improvements underway are substantial. The project will result in a safer and smoother road with an upgraded finish from asphalt to concrete.
The heavily traveled street will no longer have the bumps and dips that once challenged drivers. A better curb and gutter system, along with a new storm sewer, will aid drainage and lessen the potential for flooding.
The construction sequence involves relocation of utilities and improvements to the sanitary sewer and storm sewer. “Utility work is labor intensive and doesn’t readily show progress,” said Jessica Perkins, City of Sherman project coordinator. “We realize construction zones present temporary challenges for those accustomed to using the route and for businesses located there.”
Perkins said that all businesses remain open with access through the construction areas. “We encourage everyone to continue to use Loy Lake Road to support the businesses of your choice,” Perkins said. She also urged patience and caution and promised that the finished product will bring long-lasting results.
“It’s a dilemma every growing city faces,” said Perkins. “People want well maintained city streets, but it’s almost impossible to accomplish without disrupting normal traffic for periods of time.”
The most common questions being asked of city staff relate to construction progress, the finished product and the one-way status. Perkins said the project is on schedule, but inclement weather can affect timetables. The road won’t have additional lanes, but the street improvements will ensure a safer drive. Limiting traffic to one way allows residents to continue to use the street and access businesses there during the construction period.
Apparently, residents are “driving friendly” along the route, with no increase in traffic accidents during the construction phases. The majority of businesses report that their customers are getting to them, but everyone will be glad when the dust settles.
For more information on the Loy Lake project, contact Jessica Perkins at 903-813-8866.