LUFKIN – New speed limit signs will be set next week in a major construction project, lowering the work zone speed limit on US 59 near the cities of Burke and Diboll in Angelina County.

The speed limit on US 59 at the northern and southern end of the Diboll Relief Route construction project near US 59 will be lowered in each direction. On the north end of Diboll near Burke, the speed limit will be lowered from 55 mph to 45 mph. On the south end of Diboll, the speed limit will be lowered from 60 mph to 50 mph.

“As work for this project moves closer to US 59, it is important to lower this work zone speed limit,” said Rhonda Oaks, public information officer. “There are trucks, equipment and workers entering the work area from US 59 at these locations and motorists need to reduce speed and stay alert as this major project continues.”

Work on the Diboll Relief Route in coming days includes dirt work on embankments at the FM 1818 South Bridge header, the US 59 Direct Connect, and ditches through the work area. Crews will continue to cement and lime treat subgrade on the northbound lanes from Lumberjack Road and the FM 1818 turnarounds. Crews will also continue to place asphalt on the southbound middle lane at locations on the south end of the project, and work on bridge decking at the FM 1818 and Lumberjack Drive bridges. Seeding, sodding ditches, and working on silt fencing and rock will continue. Rip rap will be placed at various locations, and work on concrete safety end treatments will continue.

As this work progresses, lane closures are anticipated on FM 1818, as well as shoulder closures on US 59. Conner Road remains closed during this construction with Morris Road set as a detour.

The Diboll Relief Route is an 8-mile construction project that began in April 2020, and is on schedule to be completed in 2025, weather permitting.

Sacyr Construction USA, LLC, is serving as contractor for the $140.8 million construction project. The project consists of the construction of a new freeway location on US 59 in Angelina County, from FM 2108 to 1.1 mile south of White Oak Creek. Work includes construction of the new freeway, grading, structures, concrete pavement, and freeway signage.

Motorists are urged to reduce speed and obey the new work zone speed limit. Stay alert for moving equipment, workers and vehicles moving near the lanes of traffic. Fines double when workers are present.

For media inquiries, contact Rhonda.Oaks@txdot.gov or call (936) 404-7485.