TxDOT to Unveil New ‘tweaks’ to Its U.S. 380 Makeover — and Wary Citizens Are on High Alert

Even before the first official notices hit North Texas mailboxes about more tweaks to U.S. Highway 380’s proposed makeover, rumblings about last-minute changes had Collin and Denton County citizens on high alert.I've heard a lot from residents and business owners who are understandably worried about the future of the 33 miles of roadway that stretches from Denton County to Hunt County and touches 10 cities. Clearing the traffic jams on the highway -- one of the few east-west routes in the region’s two fastest-growing counties -- could also turn their lives and livelihoods upside down.The messy debate has divided cities, lit up social media and left a portion of residents disappointed, frustrated -- or ready to pull up stakes. Particularly in Prosper and McKinney, every twist and turn in the U.S. 380 saga quickly becomes fighting words.The latest development to spark alarm is Texas Department of Transportation’s announcement Tuesday that it is about to unveil two new options in the long-debated alignment plans.The new routes will likely send at least some residents or business owners into a tizzy. But take a breath. We’re still a few months away from a final decision.The state agency has invited neighbors within 1,000 feet of the proposed changes to meetings Thursday in McKinney and March 28 in Prosper to view maps, ask questions and make comments. One of the changes is a segment of new roadway in northeast McKinney and the other is in east Prosper and west of McKinney.  Continue reading...