From student success on a national stage to ongoing infrastructure work and public safety concerns, several developments are shaping communities across the Texas Panhandle today. Here’s a quick look at what residents need to know.
Bonham Robotics Team Advances to National Stage
The Bonham Middle School robotics team is headed to the National Science Bowl on April 30–May 1 after capturing the state championship. Amarillo ISD officials said the team earned the title at the GEARS robotics competition at Texas Tech University, where students designed and programmed autonomous Lego robots for complex tasks.
The team will travel to Washington, D.C. to compete nationally after also securing top honors at the Pantex Regional Middle School Science Bowl. Award winners include Preston Jideofor, Erin Jideofor, Cayden Garcia, Wesley Perkins, Levi Lusby, and Andrew Atkins, along with several other qualifying teammates.
Fatal Hit-and-Run Under Investigation in Amarillo
Police in Amarillo are searching for the driver involved in a fatal hit-and-run crash Monday night. The incident occurred around 10:30 p.m. at SW 3rd Avenue and Georgia Street, where two men and a dog were struck by a white pickup truck that fled the scene.
David Joe Daniels, 61, later died at the hospital, while another man suffered minor injuries. Authorities continue to investigate.
High Plains Food Bank Faces Rising Demand, Fewer Donations
The High Plains Food Bank is reporting a decline in food donations while assisting a growing number of families. Executive Director Zach Wilson said contributions of shelf-stable goods have dropped, even as demand surged by 31% last year.
More than 14,000 households now receive monthly assistance, and officials warn the need could increase this summer. The organization is urging financial support, food donations, and volunteers to help meet demand.
TxDOT to Host ADA Upgrade Meetings in Potter County
The Texas Department of Transportation Amarillo District will hold public meetings May 7 to discuss proposed ADA improvements in Potter County. Sessions will be held in person at Amarillo College West Campus and virtually through May 22.
Planned upgrades include shared-use paths, traffic signal improvements, and accessibility enhancements along BI-40. Public comments will be accepted through May 22.
Detours Planned for US 87 Traffic Near Canyon
Drivers traveling northbound on US 87 leaving Canyon should expect detours at Buffalo Stadium Road as crews move traffic barriers. Vehicles will be routed along frontage roads and southbound I-27 before rejoining northbound lanes near McCormick Road.
The work is scheduled from 7 p.m. to midnight.
Music Festival Brings Thousands to Downtown Amarillo
The Amarillo Symphony will host the 55th annual Greater Southwest Music Festival Thursday through Saturday. Nearly 10,000 student musicians from Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma are expected to participate in the downtown event.
Temporary Traffic Shift on Ross/Mirror Drive
Beginning April 28, traffic on Ross/Mirror Drive will shift to two lanes between N 3rd Street and East Amarillo Boulevard for about 10 days. The change supports a mill and overlay project aimed at improving road quality and durability.
Drivers are encouraged to follow posted signs and use caution in the area.
Amarillo Fire Department Advances Wildfire Mitigation Efforts
The Amarillo Fire Department reports progress on wildfire mitigation projects at multiple city locations, including Third Avenue and Adams Street. Crews removed dead trees and trimmed vegetation to reduce fire risk.
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