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A coalition of local, state and national conservation groups including the National Parks Conservation Association, Big Thicket Association, Big Thicket Natural Heritage Trust, Conservation Fund, Nature Conservancy, Big Thicket Biosphere Reserve and Texas Conservation Alliance announced a public meeting with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) regarding protections for the Big Thicket National Preserve Parkway amid highway expansion.
The meeting is 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 26 the Hardin County Courthouse, 300 West Monroe St., Kountze.
For months, Big Thicket advocates have participated in productive conversations with the TxDOT on how to limit the impacts of highway expansion adjacent to this national park site, surrounding communities and along the scenic Big Thicket National Preserve Parkway which thousands of park visitors and community members use every year.
The coalition of national conservation groups stated they are encouraged by their progress and TxDOT’s willingness to make changes.
TxDOT agreed to hold a public meeting to inform communities of potential positive changes to the highway expansion plan and listen to concerns and receive comments. TxDOT will speak on new changes to the U.S. 69 Gateway to the Big Thicket Project, such as decreases in tree removal acreage and minimized impacts of highway expansion, including planting native plants in areas where tree removal is necessary.
Earlier this year, TxDOT officials in Beaumont revealed plans to remove up to more than an additional one hundred acres of trees along the Big Thicket National Preserve Parkway (part of U.S. 69). This was a significant departure from previous versions of the highway expansion, alarming conservationists and community members who were not consulted on the decision. The changes, made to improve road safety for motorists, would have substantial impacts to the area.
Because of the advocacy of friends and neighbors in the Big Thicket, TxDOT has had an opportunity to work with conservationists to improve the plans. The National Parks Conservation Association and partners look forward to robust community engagement at the following meeting:
“Texans show up for their national parks and communities. This promising news from TxDOT is a testament to the grit and fortitude of advocates and neighbors who raised their voices for the national park site in their backyard, Big Thicket National Preserve," said Erika Pelletier, Texas associate director for the National Parks Conservation Association.
“We are encouraged by our conversations with leaders at the Texas Department of Transportation and we are grateful for their perspective. We know that their number one priority is creating a safer Big Thicket region for all and we share that vision. We know there is still so much more work to be done, and we encourage anyone with concerns about the project to bring them to this public meeting. No concern is too small.
“There is only one Big Thicket, but our one Big Thicket is so many things to so many people. It’s a biological crossroads, a natural wonder of the world. It’s a scenic drive, a hiker’s paradise, and a local jewel that friends and neighbors have worked to protect for generations. If we want the next generation to enjoy this national park site just as much as we have, we have to keep showing up for the Thicket every single time.”
Ellen Buchanan, president of Big Thicket Natural Heritage Trust said the coalition is thankful for citizens who appreciate the Big Thicket and the rural character, nature, and biodiversity of our region and who spoke up to protect these resources.
"We are equally thankful for Congressman Babin, Senator Nichols, Representative Bailes and Representative Ashby for listening to us and bringing us to the table with TxDOT. We look forward to a productive relationship with TxDOT to highlight and protect our Big Thicket resources while providing safe roadways for the public," stated Buchanan.
Mary Bernard, executive director, Big Thicket Biosphere Reserve, said for years, the coalition of Southeast Texas conservationists and volunteers have urged the TxDOT not to clearcut miles of trees along the Big Thicket National Preserve Parkway in the name of highway expansion.
"The state agency’s recent announcement that they would reduce the number of trees chopped down and plant native grasses in the project area gives us hope for the future of the Big Thicket. The Biosphere looks forward to seeing more affirmative steps towards conserving this invaluable natural resource as project planning continues,” she added.
Statement of Diane Thompson, executive director of the Big Thicket Association, stated her group is pleased with the cooperation from TxDOT to save the trees on U.S. 69, plant native plants where tree removal is necessary, and to finally hold a public meeting to review changes and hear the public’s comments on this project.