Today’s news briefs highlight developments across the Amarillo area, from lower gas prices and transportation projects to public safety programs and local government business. Here is a roundup of several stories making headlines around the region.
Amarillo Gas Prices Continue to Decline
The average price of gasoline in Amarillo dropped 8.6 cents per gallon over the past week, reaching $3.46 per gallon on Monday, according to GasBuddy. Prices are down 58.5 cents compared with a month ago but remain 61.1 cents higher than they were one year ago.
The report found the lowest-priced gas station in Amarillo was selling fuel for $3.17 per gallon on Sunday, while the highest price was $4.29, creating a local price spread of $1.12 per gallon. Across Texas, prices ranged from $2.85 per gallon to $5.29 per gallon.
Randall County Deputies Seek Owner of Found Sheep
The Randall County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s assistance in locating the owner of a male sheep discovered Saturday evening in the 1300 block of Ottawa Trail.
Officials said the animal was found around 5 p.m. on June 20. The owner has 30 days to claim the sheep and provide proof of ownership. If no owner comes forward within that period, the sheep will be auctioned. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the sheriff’s office at 806-468-5800.
APD Summer Camp Keeps Students Active and Engaged
The Amarillo Police Department is continuing its annual summer camp program for middle school students from Amarillo and Canyon, providing educational opportunities and recreational activities throughout June.
Participants have taken part in presentations from community organizations, sports competitions, horseback riding, bowling, swimming, and visits to local attractions. Recent activities included a tour of the department’s dispatch center, a kickball game, a presentation from Amarillo Family Support Services, and a trip to Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park. The free program is coordinated through School Resource Officers in partnership with Amarillo and Canyon ISDs and is supported by local sponsors.
Amarillo City Council Set for Busy Agenda
The Amarillo City Council is scheduled to meet Tuesday at 3 p.m. in Council Chambers at City Hall to consider a wide range of policy, development, and infrastructure matters.
Council members are expected to discuss a potential expansion of East Gateway Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone No. 2, along with rezoning requests involving properties near South Osage and Freedom Drive and Living Water Drive and Satinwood Drive. Additional agenda items include amendments to the city’s financial policies, a proposed $2.475 million incentive agreement between the Amarillo Economic Development Corporation and Owens Corning, airport-related contracts, utility billing review services, electrical supply purchases, landfill gas system repairs, and the purchase of a hydroseeder. Public comments will also be accepted during the meeting.
Dumas Designates Fireworks Area for Public Use
The City of Dumas has designated a special area south of the city where residents may legally use fireworks following the community fireworks show.
According to the Dumas Fire Department, the approved location is east of Prime Metal and west of the Hampton Inn. The area will open after the fireworks display concludes. Visitors will enter from the north side of Prime Metal and exit near the Hampton Inn. Officials said the entrance gate will close at midnight.
Major Roadway Projects Continue Across Amarillo Region
Drivers in the Amarillo area can expect continued construction activity as TxDOT advances two major transportation projects aimed at improving traffic flow and accommodating future growth.
Work continues on the expansion of Loop 335, a project designed to improve mobility around Amarillo by providing an alternative route and reducing congestion on major corridors such as Interstate 40 and Interstate 27. Portions of the loop currently operate as frontage roads, with additional main lanes planned as funding becomes available.
At the same time, the $312 million Interstate 27 widening project between Amarillo and Canyon is moving forward. The project will expand the highway from four lanes to six while also adding drainage and lighting improvements. Transportation officials say the corridor remains a priority because of increasing traffic volumes and continued population growth in the region. Motorists are urged to remain cautious in work zones and watch for changing traffic patterns as construction progresses.
