In the heart of Denton City Hall, city planners gathered to discuss a significant change to the future of local transportation. The Planning and Zoning Commission convened on June 11, 2025, to address a proposal that could reshape traffic flow in the area.

At the center of the discussion was a proposed collector road located between I-35 and Western Road, south of US 380 and north of Jim Crystal. City staff recommended removing this future collector from the mobility plan, citing several compelling reasons. A key concern was the presence of the Kansas City Southern Railroad, which crosses the proposed roadway. According to city regulations, any new crossing would necessitate the closure of at least two existing crossings, raising safety issues for the community.

Additionally, the northern section of the proposed road lies within a floodplain, prompting environmental concerns. To mitigate potential adverse impacts, city staff argued that it would be prudent to eliminate the collector from the plan. They assured the commission that the existing roadways would have sufficient capacity to manage traffic without the new collector.

The proposal was not made in isolation; extensive public outreach efforts were conducted, including newspaper advertisements, website announcements, and direct mail to residents within a 250-foot radius of the proposed road. The response was minimal, with only one letter received in favor of the removal.

As the meeting progressed, staff emphasized that the proposal aligns with the city’s comprehensive plan and mobility criteria. With the recommendation for approval on the table, the commission was poised to make a decision that could significantly influence Denton’s transportation landscape. The outcome of this meeting will be closely watched by residents and city officials alike, as it reflects ongoing efforts to balance development with safety and environmental stewardship.