Project making improvements to FM 179

WOLFFORTH -The Texas Department of Transportation is set to begin work on a project that will make improvements to FM 179, from US 62/82 to FM 1585 (Loop 88), in Lubbock County. The $9.6 million project will widen the roadway to accommodate a left-turn lane, improve drainage, place a new road surface, add traffic signals at US 62 and upgrade lighting.

Construction work is scheduled to start next week, with contractor A.L. Helmcamp, of Buffalo, TX, setting traffic control and barriers along the project limits on September 8, said Joe Villalobos, P.E., TxDOT Lubbock Area engineer.

"This area has steadily grown, and continues to grow," said Joe Villalobos. "Construction on a busy roadway always presents challenges, but our goal is to make sure we get the work done in the safest and most efficient way possible and keep traffic moving."

FM 179 traffic will continue to be one-lane in each direction for the majority of time during construction. Other traffic impacts motorists should expect are a very brief period when traffic is down to one-lane, a temporary detour, slow moving traffic, delays and drivers are advised to seek alternative routes around the construction zone, Villalobos added.

The speed limits through the work zone will be reduce to 45 mph in the northern portion of the project limits and 55 mph in the southern area. Motorists are urged to use caution when driving through the construction zone since crews will be working in close proximity to traffic and should keep the following tips in mind:

• Slow down and always follow posted work zone speed limits. Speeding is one of the major causes of work zone crashes. Remember, traffic fines double in work zones.
• Pay attention. Workers and heavy equipment may only be a few feet from passing vehicles.
• Be patient. Delays from roadway construction can be frustrating, but it only takes a few extra minutes to slow down for a work zone.

The project is anticipated to be completed in fall 2027.