A quick lesson on sealcoat

We at TxDOT know exactly what is on your mind; 'What is a sealcoat?'

Okay, it's probably not the most pressing issue in your life. But if you want to find out something about how highways are resurfaced, we do have a pretty neat video produced by our Austin Travel Division.

Sealcoat is one of the most widely used methods of resurfacing highways in the Lone Star State. In fact, most Farm-to-Market roads have a sealcoat. However, with shrinking highway dollars, TxDOT is looking at sealcoating more highways.

The above video explains why the department uses sealcoat...and how you can expect more of it in a travel lane in your future.

Marc S.

Interstate 10 at MLK

Interstate 10 through Orange County has seen LOTS of changes. Just a few years ago the interstate was a series of bumps that made drivers think they were driving on an off-road trail rather than a major highway system.

Today, much of I-10 has been reconstructed. A new interchange at SH 12 in Vidor, six-lanes of interstate between Beaumont and Vidor as well as a new stretch of concrete to Orange have made I-10 in Southeast Texas among the best in the nation.

The latest project is taking place between SH 62 and Adams Bayou. Our latest video describes the work...and how TxDOT will tackle the MLK (FM 3247) interchange.

Marc S.

New and tougher FM 365 surface

If you travel FM 365 in Mid-County, look for a some big improvements to your highway.

Beginning later this summer, TxDOT will supervise a project to resurface a section of FM 365 with Stone Matrix Asphalt. Commonly called "SMA" this asphalt is known for its strength and durability.

The project will begin just west of US 69 and continue about two miles to 21st Street in Nederland. Construction crews are already widening the portion between West Port Arthur Road and US 69.

Workers will first make base repairs (or repairs to the road bed) followed by a layer of SMA and then new striping. All work will take place at night to keep from interfering with rush-hour traffic. So, there shouldn't be any problems with traffic tie ups.

Total cost of the project is a little over $1 million.

Marc S.

Drivers, start your...props?

It's an automobile that gives the term "layover" a whole new meaning!

The Terrafugia Transition is a "roadable aircraft" (flying car to the rest of us) that can drive at highway speeds. The nation's department of transportation has given the two-seater, prop-driven automobile/airplane temporary permission to drive on the nation's highways.

Not sure how many Southeast Texans will drop down the cash when the Terrafugia becomes available in 2012. However, it would be a great way to beat the US 69 rush-hour traffic through Lumberton!

More information at: http://www.foxnews.com/leisure/2011/07/06/flying-car-ready-to-roll/?test=faces

Happy Flying,
Marc S.

Wrapping it up...

With all the big machines on US 69 in Lumberton, we thought you'd like to get a bit closer look at the work taking place at night.

The above video pretty much tells it all.  One a sidenote, the contractor hopes to have the project wrapped up in a couple of weeks.

Enjoy your 4th of July!

Marc S.