Serving Clovis, Portales and the Surrounding Communities
Serving Clovis, Portales and the Surrounding Communities
Highway officials on Thursday in Texico rolled out their latest version of a railroad overpass at the New Mexico and Texas state line.
The latest plan is not much different than one presented in May that would divert traffic to and from Lubbock around most of the Texico business district, with little impact on Farwell. The latest version provides easier access for motorists with additional lanes.
Texas Department of Transportation District Environmental Coordinator Ayssa Trevino said the U.S. 70/84 Railroad Elimination Project is designed to reduce congestion at the crossing, improve mobility on U.S. 60/70/84 and improve access for emergency response vehicles.
Texico resident Katy Lowrey called it an, “Astronomical, wonderful idea.”
She told of her recent experience needing medical help after falling on the steps at her home on Garwood Street.
“I had to go by ambulance … and we sat there for 20 minutes waiting for two trains so we could clear the tracks,” Lowrey recalled from her walker.
A survey outlined at the beginning of Thursday’s presentation showed area residents like it because few businesses will be hindered. Still, some convenience stores may be negatively impacted.
A final design won’t be approved until 2028, officials have said. Construction isn’t expected to start until 2030. It will take three to four years to complete at a cost of about “$90 million.”
The project is funded by the state and federal governments.
Comments can be emailed to:
For more information: http://www.TxDOT.gov and search for Farwell Railroad Bridge Project
