Crockett council asks TxDOT to redesignate downtown highways as 'business' routes to reduce truck traffic

The Crockett City Council voted to ask the Texas Department of Transportation to redesignate certain state and U.S. highway footprints so they run concurrently with Loop 304 and to relabel the routes through downtown as business highways.

City staff said the change would not remove state maintenance responsibility but would signal navigation systems and truck routing software to keep through-traffic on Loop 304 rather than down the square. "A lot of them do carry that definition to reroute traffic and maintain the highway system and stay off the business unless they are delivering within that business block," a city presenter told the council.

Officials described concerns about large trucks using downtown streets and noted hazardous-material route designations that can bind routing choices. Staff said TxDOT committed to conducting a study, entering an agreement with the city and adding additional signage, including flashing LED signs with a truck icon and a barred symbol, to direct truck drivers to Loop 304.

Council members asked whether TxDOT would continue to maintain roads inside the loop; staff confirmed the state would maintain its jurisdictional sections. The council unanimously approved the resolution after a motion and second.

The change is aimed at reducing conflicts and preserving downtown safety and access while maintaining the state highway system; the city will follow up with TxDOT on the proposed study and signage plan.