Lower Speed Limit Now in Place on Highway 69 South of Zavalla

Motorists will see a new speed limit in effect as they travel US 69 South as crews continue to widen the roadway in a major construction project.

Commissioners approved a reduced speed limit from 75 miles per hour to 60 mph on US 69 from FM 1270, just south of Zavalla, to the Jasper County line. The reduction in speed was warranted to enhance the safety of motorists traveling through the work zone. The speed limit will remain in effect until the construction project is substantially completed. Signs indicating the new speed limit are being set and are enforceable.

Motorists should remain alert for all signage and use caution through the work zones. Obey all traffic control devices and watch for trucks entering and exiting the main lanes and workers and equipment working near the lanes of traffic.

This project includes the widening of US 69 in southern Angelina County from a two-lane roadway to a four-lane divided highway. The projects are being completed in three phases.

• Phase One: From Huntington to FM 844, extend the four-lane section of highway just south of Huntington. This phase is now completed.
• Phase Two: From FM 844 to FM 1270 in Zavalla, extend the four-lane section of highway and construct several bridges. Crews continue to work through this phase.
• Phase Three: From FM 1270 to the Jasper County line, crews continue to widen the roadway to a four-lane divided highway. Scheduled completion of this final phase is se for early 2023, weather permitting.

Once completed, the US 69 South Corridor in the Lufkin District will connect to the US 69 widening project being completed by the Beaumont District. The roadway will be known as the Big Thicket Corridor. The finished projects will enhance safety, improve traffic flow, provide better connectivity between Lufkin and Beaumont and serve as an evacuation route from the Gulf Coast.