Roads

“Although TCEQ rules prohibit creation of a nuisance, the TCEQ does not have jurisdiction to consider traffic, road safety, or road repair costs when determining whether to approve or deny a registration. In addition, trucks are considered mobile sources, which are not regulated by TCEQ. TCEQ is also prohibited from regulating roads per the TCAA § 382.003(6) which excludes roads from the definition of “facility.”

Similarly, TCEQ does not have the authority to regulate traffic on public roads, load-bearing restrictions, and public safety, including access, speed limits, and public roadway issues. These concerns are typically the responsibility of local, county, or other state agencies, such as the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). Concerns regarding roads should be addressed to the appropriate state or local officials.” —Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Although the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) will not address road conditions and traffic concerns, these issues remain a daily challenge for residents and travelers on Fannin Avenue and nearby roads. The following information is provided for anyone interested in exploring solutions to these problems if the air permit is approved.

Where are all the trucks coming from?

North Texas Natural Select Materials, LLC has operated a Sand and Select Fill facility on Fannin Avenue since 2022, a business that involves a significant influx of trucks. These trucks, contracted by third parties, transport materials for construction and road projects such as the expansion of US 75 in Sherman and Denison. Despite NTNSM not directly employing these truck drivers, its operations impact local infrastructure.

If you've noticed fewer trucks lately, it doesn't mean the issue is resolved. Truck traffic on and around Fannin Avenue fluctuates due to weather and changing demand from nearby construction projects. If this permit is approved, expect an INCREASE, not a decrease, in truck activity. NTNSM will continue to bring trucks for the current sand and gravel pit AND bring in additional trucks to transport concrete for recycling.

Road Conditions

Residents have expressed concern about the increased truck traffic to and from the sand and gravel pit, once a tranquil country road favored by cyclists for its rolling hills. Now, trucks of varying sizes use this route extensively, up to six days a week from dawn to dusk. The increased truck activity has taken a toll on the road conditions, posing safety risks with its lack of shoulders and lane markings. The road edges have deteriorated, reducing it to a single lane in some areas. This road was not designed for such traffic. Without action, there's a real risk of accidents or worse. If the air permit for this concrete crusher is approved, traffic will only worsen. 

Most of us would agree that NTNSM has been a poor-performing neighbor. When the City of Denison, the City of Sherman, or Grayson County has reached out in good faith requesting that they clean the streets and repair the roads damaged by overloaded and overweight 18-wheelers, they have not agreed to do so.

Grayson County is doing what it can with its limited budget to repair roads. Cities can only help control traffic on roads within their city limits and may not impede business. If you observe trucks in areas marked with "No Truck" signs, please get in touch with your local police department. For your safety, please avoid interacting with any trucks directly!