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Longview council approves Fourth Street study, Teague Park grant amendment and 2026 chip-seal contract on consent
Summary
Council approved a consent package to authorize an MPO-funded Fourth Street transportation study with Halff Associates, accept federal funding for Teague Park improvements including an inclusive playground, and award the 2026 chip-seal contract to Reynolds & Kay; council also heard timeline and outreach plans.
The Longview City Council on April 9 approved a consent package that included authorization to negotiate a contract with Halff Associates for a Fourth Street transportation planning study, a budget amendment to accept federal grant funds for the "Bring Back Teague Park" project, and an award for the city's 2026 chip-seal program. The consent items passed after discussion and public explanation; council voted to approve the full consent agenda.
On the Fourth Street study (MPO funds), Mr. McBride described a project area from U.S. 259 to the Loop intended to address congestion and one of the region's highest crash corridors. Halff's public involvement plan includes traditional town halls, virtual engagement and on-site outreach on Fourth Street to collect input from people who use the corridor. Staff estimated a 12-month timeline for public involvement and alternatives analysis.
The Teague Park budget amendment accepts federal grant funding administered through Texas Parks and Wildlife for an inclusive playground, a new 80th Street entry and trail connectivity; staff said Longview was one of five Texas cities awarded the grant. The parks team aims to order and begin installing the inclusive playground within about six months, while other design and trail work will follow.
For pavement maintenance, staff explained the chip-seal process used to extend the life of otherwise sound roadways (estimated 5–10 years of additional life) and said the program is funded from operations, with about $3 million budgeted for the program this year. Staff recommended Reynolds & Kay for the 2026 chip-seal project; council approved the contract.
No dissenting votes were recorded in the meeting transcript when the consent agenda passed. Councilmembers noted that public outreach and clear timelines will be important for the Fourth Street study and Teague Park design work.
