City leaders met with the residents of two Whitesboro streets last Thursday evening at the Jimmie O. Rector Center to discuss city plans to reconstruct three blocks of Texoma Drive.
About 50 people were in attendance from both Texoma and Red River Drive as both streets will be affected by the upcoming work.
City Administrator Julie Arrington gave the presentation along with city staff, council and the project engineer. The work should begin in late spring or early summer and last approximately four to six months. While the project is definite, some details are yet to be determined until bids are received and a contractor is chosen. What is clear is that the project will include a complete tear-out and replacement of the entirety of the street, including a new grade to avoid standing water, new curbs and new water lines below ground.
Texoma Drive has had significant issues over the years due to poor design, flooding and damage done by large vehicles. Residents have expressed frustration over the worsening conditions.
At Thursday’s meeting, attendees asked about the potential loss of some trees, and how the work would affect their driveways. Engineer Craig Kerkhoff told the audience that the tree removal would be minimal and only when necessary. Lawns would be re-seeded and any driveway sections that need to be removed would be replaced.
“While Red River residents aren’t getting the same relief from the issues on their street, a reconstruct of two blocks is in the plan going forward,” Arrington said.
“The work is long overdue,” Mayor Pro-Tem Ben Edwards said. “Residents on those streets have dealt with this for decades and it’s time to get it right.”
Texoma Drive resident Keisha Head agreed.
“I’m very excited about the project,” Head said. “As one of the houses there on Texoma, I have standing water every time it rains. I will be very happy to not have to walk through a river to get to my house from the street. I’m also excited to not have curbs that are falling apart.”
No details on cost were discussed during the meeting. Arrington told the residents that the city would remain in contact with them throughout the process, keeping them informed as work progressed and new information becomes available.