TxDOT Road Construction Update for Foster High School, Briscoe Junior High, and Wertheimer Middle School

Posted Date: 08/04/26 (10:58 AM)

Dear Foster High School, Briscoe Junior High, and Wertheimer Middle School Families and Staff,

As we prepare for the first day of school, we want to provide an update regarding the ongoing Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) construction project along FM 723 that impacts access to the Foster, Briscoe, and Wertheimer campus complex.

It is important for families to understand that the road construction project, associated road closures, traffic configurations, and completion timelines are controlled by TxDOT, not Lamar CISD. While we continue to advocate on behalf of our students, staff, and families, the district does not control the project schedule or construction decisions. Our focus is on preparing contingency plans that allow our campuses to operate as safely and efficiently as possible regardless of the project status.

At this time, TxDOT has informed Lamar CISD that the entrances and exits currently closed as part of the project are expected to reopen on August 7 or August 8, prior to the first day of school. While we remain hopeful that construction will progress as planned, Lamar CISD is preparing for the possibility that some portions of the project may not be completed before students return.

Should the construction not be completed as anticipated, families should be prepared for significant traffic impacts around the campus complex. We have developed contingency plans to help manage traffic flow and support student arrival and dismissal. Traffic plans for each individual campus can be accessed at the links below this message.

Additional information for Wertheimer Middle School families:

The southbound lanes of FM 723 currently do not include a dedicated turn lane into Wertheimer Middle School, creating the potential for traffic backups.
There is currently no usable shoulder on the northbound side of FM 723 approaching Wertheimer. Families who traditionally arrive well before dismissal and park along the shoulder will not be able to do so.
Parents are encouraged to avoid arriving more than 10-15 minutes early for dismissal to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow.

For all three campuses, the following restrictions will be in place if contingency plans are implemented:

Vehicles will not be permitted on any campus bus porch.
Stopping, standing, or parking will not be allowed on the connector road located behind the schools.
Arrival and dismissal traffic patterns will be modified to maintain safe access to all campuses.

Families should also be aware that Meet the Teacher and other back-to-school events may be impacted by these traffic restrictions and road closures.

Because conditions continue to change daily, Lamar CISD will provide any necessary updates by Monday, August 10, 2026, after we have received the latest construction updates from TxDOT.

We recognize that these circumstances may be frustrating for families. We share those concerns and are committed to doing everything within our control to provide a smooth and safe start to the school year. Concerns regarding the construction project itself, road closures, project timelines, or traffic impacts should be directed by email to the TxDOT Houston District Public Information Office at HOU-PIOwebmail@txdot.gov so they can hear firsthand from the community affected by these decisions.

Thank you for your patience, flexibility, and support as we prepare for the opening of school.

Dr. Shannon Hood
Gold Track Area Superintendent

Contingency traffic plans can be accessed at the links below: