The City of Amarillo is taking action to comply with a statewide directive from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) regarding non-compliant crosswalk and pavement markings. The directive, issued on October 8, 2025, requires local jurisdictions to ensure that all roadway markings adhere to state and federal standards as outlined in the Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (TMUTCD).
TxDOT has determined that several crosswalks across Amarillo do not meet current requirements for traffic control devices. This includes decorative pavement markings that do not comply with visibility or layout standards, as well as crosswalks that are improperly placed according to TMUTCD guidelines. Local officials emphasized that compliance is critical not only for pedestrian safety but also to maintain eligibility for state and federal transportation funding.
Beginning Saturday, March 28, the City of Amarillo will begin addressing these crosswalks. Several locations with decorative pavement markings will see updates to meet the required standards. Affected areas include crosswalks near San Jacinto Elementary School at S.W. Third Avenue and S. Carolina Street, Margaret Wills Elementary at Belleview Street and Line Avenue, and multiple intersections in the North Heights neighborhood, including Amarillo Boulevard and N. Hughes Avenue, as well as N.W. 21st and N.W. 20th Avenues at N. Hughes Street. Crosswalks at Carver Early Childhood Academy, Park Hills Elementary, and Carver Elementary will also be updated.
In addition, some crosswalks that do not meet TMUTCD placement standards will be removed entirely. These include the crossing near the Amarillo Police Department on Third Street between Fillmore Street and Taylor Street, as well as a midblock crossing on the 400 block of S.E. Sixth Street.
City officials have stated that while the work may cause temporary disruptions, it is part of a broader commitment to maintaining a safe and consistent transportation system. The updates will standardize markings across the city, improving safety and compliance while ensuring that Amarillo continues to receive transportation funding from state and federal sources.
Residents are advised to exercise caution in work zones and plan for minor delays during the updates. The city has pledged to complete the changes efficiently while minimizing disruption to the public. This effort reflects a growing statewide emphasis on consistent traffic control measures and pedestrian safety across Texas communities.
