SH 351 traffic causes major change
The Texas Department of Transportation has installed temporary mobile traffic signals that are now in operation as a three-way stop zone at the intersection of State Highway 351 and FM 604 in the southwest corner of Shackelford County following a sharp increase in traffic tied to construction at the Vantage data center site.
Large numbers of construction trucks and service vehicles entering and exiting the site have caused long backups on SH 351, with traffic at times stretching hundreds of feet as trucks wait to pull onto the highway.
At several points, truck drivers have taken it upon themselves to stop traffic so other vehicles could leave the construction area, a practice that raised safety concerns for local officials.
The Shackelford County Sheriff’s Office has been monitoring the intersection and directing traffic during morning and evening rush hours, and deputies will continue to be present during peak times as drivers adjust to the new temporary traffic lights.
According to local officials, the three-way stop zone is created by mobile street-light style signals that are flashing red, with two temporary lights placed on SH 351 and one light placed on FM 604. The system is intended to improve safety, even though delays are expected to continue. Plans are also in place for a permanent traffic signal to be installed in the future, followed by a full redesign of the intersection to better handle long-term traffic flow.
The Albany News reached out to the Texas Department of Transportation for additional details but did not receive a response by press time.
Many Albany residents have begun using U.S. Highway 283 through Baird when traveling to Abilene, choosing the longer route in hopes of avoiding the congestion tied to the Vantage construction site. Several residents have said they no longer feel comfortable on SH 351 due to the steady flow of heavy trucks and what they describe as hurried and reckless driving in the area, noting that traffic conditions have changed dramatically over the past few months.
