Boling highway project takes big step forward
By BENJAMIN C. SHARP bensharp@journal-spectator.com

A significant step forward has been taken in the city's plans to extend FM 1301 to the freeway.

The Wharton City Council recently approved a purchase agreement with the Union Pacific Railroad for a 4.78 acre tract at the intersection of FM 1301 and Richmond Road, just south of Subway.

Price for the parcel is $92,000. An additional $17,000 will be added to that cost, though, for the removal of a sign that now sits on the property.

"We will have to buy out the sign," City Manager Andres Garza Jr. said

The total bill - $109,000 - will be covered by the Wharton Economic Development Corp. City officials said the closing date for the sale is Dec. 15.

Plans are to extend Boling Highway to CR 235, the first phase of a project that seeks to eventually connect the Farm to Market road to U.S. 59. It's believed that having another route into the city will boost the area's economic development.

Two other projects are planned over the next four years to improve traffic flow and ease of access into the city. The others include upgrades to the U.S. 59/FM 102 interchange and the reconstruction of the U.S. 59/ Texas 60 interchange.

Another interchange is also planned for the spot where 1301 will eventually connect with 59. The Texas Department of Transportation will construct that upgrade and cover the cost of shutting down nearby crossovers.

The city will be responsible for the actual costs of extending 1301.

Obtaining the 4.78 acres is a crucial first step in making the project a reality, Garza said.

"That's a key acquisition. It borders on a major thoroughfare," he said.