Claude, TX prepares for school as data center construction increases traffic and wrecks
Increased traffic from data center construction along Highway 207 in Claude, TX, is causing more wrecks and raising safety concerns as school prepares to start. The Armstrong County Sheriff's Office is increasing law enforcement presence to manage the issue, with the data center project funding additional deputies.
Claude, Texas, is currently experiencing a significant surge in traffic and vehicular accidents attributed to the ongoing construction of a new data center along Highway 207. Thousands of construction workers are commuting in and out of the area daily, leading to heightened public safety concerns, especially with the upcoming school year set to begin on August 20th.
Armstrong County Sheriff Melissa Anderson has reported a noticeable increase in accidents, typically two to three minor fender-benders per day. The busiest traffic periods are identified between 3-6 AM and 3-6 PM. To address these issues, Sheriff Anderson is advising drivers to plan for extra travel time, consider alternative routes, and remain highly vigilant of their surroundings.
In a collaborative effort to mitigate these impacts, the data center project has contributed to funding an additional deputy for Armstrong County. Furthermore, the data center has recently entered a contract to provide funding for another deputy for the next two years, which will increase the department's size to five by mid-September. Discussions are also underway to potentially add a sixth deputy during the upcoming budget season.
Data center officials anticipate that the construction phase could last for up to two more years. The Sheriff's Office is also actively seeking community volunteers to assist with school crossings during school hours to further ensure student safety.