Haslet leaders are seeking state money to help alleviate train crossing congestion

Haslet mayor says public safety is just one of several reasons why they proposed a bridge over the tracks.

It is a common sight for anyone who travels along Avondale-Haslet Road in Haslet. A train crossing causes delays for drivers several times a day.

“It just gets a lot of traffic stuck, and it can take long to go back to work,” nearby worker Henry Del Abra said.

Del Abra liked the idea of a bridge that could keep traffic moving.

“That would help everybody out,” Del Abra said. “Going back wherever they need to go. Emergencies, too, in case of the ambulance or something.”

Haslet Mayor Gary Hulsey said public safety is just one of several reasons why they proposed a bridge over the tracks. He recalls an incident here a few years back.

“Emergency response right here on this road headed west,” Haslet Mayor Gary Husley described. “Four police cars and an ambulance sat here for 40 minutes for a train to clear.”

The city of Haslet has applied for state funding for a bridge that would span over the tracks, Blue Mound Road, and eventually connect with the planned Haslet Parkway.

Hulsey said a bridge would also be beneficial to goods moved through the railroad hub and Alliance Airport area.

"If you are in the logistics industry, anywhere in the world, you know our address,” Hulsey said. “The world wants to be here. From that aspect, they're probably, in my view, not a more prominent project in the state of Texas for this program.”

The state has $250 million to allocate to non-TxDOT road projects. The construction of this bridge would cost about $79 million.

Hulsey said applicants will know by the end of February. He's hoping it's a late Christmas gift for his area.

“It is for our workforce, our businesses, consumers, residents,” Hulsey said. “It will change very much the quality of life here in North Texas.”

Hulsey added that his deadline for applying is January 19.  If awarded the funding, construction must begin within 3 years.