Big Changes Coming Tuesday at 59 and Railroad Bridge in Lufkin

According to a press release from the Texas Department of Transportation, get ready for some big changes as well as travel delays at the railroad bridge on Business 59 in north Lufkin.  Beginning Tuesday these changes will take place and they could last up to six months at the Angelina & Neches River Railroad bridge currently under construction.

For the past several weeks, contractor crews have worked out of the lanes of travel, but with preliminary work completed, construction work will begin at the Business 59/North Timberland Drive location to redesign the roadway and replace the A&NR railroad bridge that spans the four-lane roadway.

Beginning Tuesday, traffic will be switched from existing southbound lanes to the inside northbound lane. TxDOT officials predict this traffic pattern could continue for up to six months while major construction is underway.

Austin Bridge & Road, contractors for the $11.4 million project, will begin drilling shafts, pouring center concrete medians and installing storm drains and underdrains. Barriers and retaining walls will also be set and moved as pavement is rebuilt.

“There will be many workers on site in both this project and the US 59/Loop 287 project that is also ongoing. We are asking that motorists drive through these areas with an extra dose of patience, pay attention to all traffic control devices and slow down to about 15 miles per hour through the heavy work areas,” said Rhonda Oaks, public information officer for the Lufkin District. “Once completed, these projects will have end results that are aesthetically pleasing and will create a better driving opportunity for everyone.”

Crews working at the Business 59 project will construct a temporary railroad bridge to allow train traffic to continue to service their customers. The old bridge will then be demolished and rebuilt in its place. Plans also include increasing the bridge clearance by lowering the roadway beneath it. New pavement, raised islands, storm drains, curb and gutter and sidewalks will all be a part of the enhancement. The project is expected to be finished by late summer, 2016, weather permitting.