The Texas Department for Transportation scheduled maintenance on the Queen Isabella Memorial Causeway from October 2021 through February 2022.
In March 2022, TxDOT removed bridge lane closures to relieve SPI traffic for its busiest season. Then construction resumed until today.
Public opinion erupted on media platforms calling for TxDOT to work at night after causing hour-long daily delays.
The road construction made crossing the bridge for emergencies more difficult for first responders and drivers.
TxDOT released a statement notifying the public of the maintenance completion on Mar. 8, 2023.
“Maintenance on the bridge deck has been completed,” in the statement.
Mayor Patrick McNulty and Councilman Schwartz addressed the issue in a recent City Council meeting.
McNulty encouraged reaching out and writing legislators about why another bridge is necessary, referring to the City’s current situation as an example of why SPI needs a second causeway.
“If you have any complaints, please reach out about why we need a second access. This shows that.”
“It’s their bridge,” said Councilman Schwartz.
Who to Reach
Reaching out to local representatives in numbers is often the most recommended outlet for citizens to have a voice.
Representatives of SPI include:
U.S. Congressman Vicente Gonzalez
Office: 835 E. Levee St., 6th Floor, Brownsville, TX 78520
Phone: 956-682-5545
Texas State Representative Janie Lopez
Email: janie@janielopez.com
Office: 1390 W. Expressway 83, San Benito, TX 78586
Texas State Senator Morgan LaMantia
Email: info@morganlamantia.com
Office: 1324 E. Madison, Brownsville, TX 78520
Non-Residents of SPI:
Other Texas Representatives other Texas Senators. How to find who represents you.
How to Address the Letter
Dear ______________
Paragraph One: State your name and purpose for writing
Paragraph Two: Provide specific examples, info, or evidence to support beliefs.
Paragraph Three: call to action
Sincerely,
Your name
Your address
Your City, State, Zip,
Your Phone Number
