New US 281 stop light operational

The traffic light at US 281 and Farm to Market Road 1855 north of Marble Falls is now fully operational, controlling stop and go traffic at the intersection.

The intersection is located right next to the Pottery Ranch at 6000 US 281. where employees say they had become accustomed to being just a little on edge, anticipating the next screech of tires.

“We are all just very happy to see this,” said Scott Kilpatrick, owner of the popular stop for locals and tourists. “Traffic moves by really fast on US 281. It has been a dangerous intersection.”

Passersby may have noticed the light, installed in February, as it began flashing this month. That is because the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) wants motorists to become aware of a new light, according to Diann Hodges of TxDOT's Austin District.

A full signal at FM 1855 and a flashing beacon scheduled for the intersection at Park Road 4 are being funded through the TxDOT safety program, Hodges said.

“The $1.13 million contract for Park Road 4 and 12 other signal locations was awarded in August 2017,” she said. “The contractor, Austin Traffic Signal, is awaiting materials for several locations, but is expected to take about a year to complete the installation of all 13 signals.”