Texas drivers are facing fresh roadway headaches. Extreme heat buckled a section of Galveston’s Seawall Boulevard, while in Houston, potholes remain a daily hazard for commuters.
The relentless summer heat has once again wreaked havoc on Texas roads, causing a section of Galveston’s Seawall Boulevard to buckle. At the same time, drivers in Houston find themselves maneuvering through a labyrinth of potholes.
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has reported that pavement damage was observed near 77th Street on Seawall Boulevard following a weekend of soaring temperatures.
In a swift response, TxDOT crews addressed the damaged section over the weekend to ensure traffic continued to flow, with plans for a more lasting repair set for late September.
“Recent days and weeks have presented us with some severe circumstances, and conditions can shift quickly,” stated Danny Perez, a spokesperson for TxDOT, in an interview with ABC13.
As the damage in Galveston captures headlines, the ongoing issue of potholes continues to plague Houston’s busy streets. A recent report from Click2Houston highlights a troubling situation for drivers, who are facing numerous potholes daily, particularly on the Northbound U.S. 59 close to the 610 interchange.
A commuter reported encountering over 30 potholes during just one drive.
Perez highlighted that the combination of Houston's intense heat, significant rainfall, and high traffic levels contributes to the rapid deterioration of the roads. On certain freeways, such as the 610 Loop, daily traffic numbers range from 200,000 to 300,000 vehicles.
“The pavement faces immense pressure due to those conditions,” Perez stated.
TxDOT urges drivers to take action by reporting road hazards, while emphasizing that the responsibility for any vehicle damage rests with the motorists themselves.
In the wake of the buckling incident in Galveston, city officials have confirmed that there were no injuries or vehicle damage reported.
The challenges underscore the strain on Texas's infrastructure as it faces yet another season of extreme heat. This past summer, sections of Interstate 45 and various significant highways throughout the state experienced heat-induced buckling.
Currently, TxDOT crews are actively engaged in ongoing repairs, tackling hazards as they emerge while also strategizing for more permanent solutions.
“We are prompt in our responses, yet the circumstances we are dealing with present a continuous challenge,” Perez stated.
With the ongoing heatwave, transportation officials are calling on drivers to remain vigilant and report any road irregularities. This proactive approach will enable crews to address issues promptly, preventing further deterioration of conditions.
