Residents north of Mineola got some good, if not timely news recently in their quest to have the center turn lane of State Hwy. 37 extended north from Walmart.

The residents have petitioned the Texas Department of Transportation to extend the center lane past a couple busy subdivisions, Tuscany Park and Lake Brenda, as well as other residential streets and several businesses.

Among the residents’ concerns are for northbound motorists being able to turn safely to the west, as well as entering the highway from either side and dangers to a school bus that makes a stop in the afternoon.

District Engineer Vernon Webb reported that the project has been placed on TxDOT’s letting schedule, but it is still about three years away.

In a message to resident Larry Elms, Webb said the project is scheduled to be let in January 2027 with work to commence in a March-April 2027 time frame.

Webb said the speed limit through the area, currently 55 MPH and rising to 60, would be reexamined.

“We must ensure the current speed limits are being enforced,” he wrote.

He said he would ask the staff to reach out lo local law enforcement.

“Speed limits are based on an engineering analysis,” Webb wrote. “Posting limits that are substantially lower than what the majority of traffic is traveling increases the risk of an incident.”

About five years ago the speed limit further north was lowered from 70 MPH to 60 MPH for a curve and bridge that has been the scene of several serious traffic crashes.