Reader Responses

Most Whitehouse residents are aware of road constructions issues we have experienced over past months with widening of FM 346.

As the beginning of the new school year draws near, I want to share thoughts regarding probable driving conditions and possible traffic issues relating to the opening of schools, especially the new Stanton-Smith Elementary on Highway 110 north.

I have been advised TXDOT is scheduled to open the south side of FM 346 to regular traffic Aug. 23 and shut down the north side to begin construction there. We have been advised there will be turn lanes provided for Holloway and the high school.

We anticipate traffic delays at Stanton-Smith School on Highway 110. There will be no left turn signs posted at the east entrance to the school on Highway 110, which will prohibit vehicles from turning north toward Tyler during early morning and late afternoon school hours.

Alternate exit routes will be provided from this location. We hope most parents turning north toward Tyler will exit through the junior high school located adjacent to Stanton-Smith and utilize the traffic light at Wildcat drive to travel north. I believe this will prove to be faster and safer than turning south and trying to make a u-turn northbound.

The police departments suggests, due to the overwhelming school-related traffic drop-offs, if at all possible those who do not need to drop off children adjust commute times to earlier than 7:15 a.m. or later than 8 a.m. and before 2:30 p.m. and later than 3:30 p.m. This will expedite their travel time through Whitehouse and be a much more desirable driving experience.

There will be officers located at area school entrances at least the first week to assist with traffic flow issues, and more importantly, for the safety of children. Let's all remember to drive safely and watch out for our most precious commodity - our children.

Chief Rick Waller
Whitehouse
Police Department