I-35 Expension May Be Never Ending Says Marc Williams, Executive Director Of Txdot

staff writer • May 14, 2024

Who is the Director of TxDot, Marc Williams ?

Marc Williams is the Executive Director of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). He was appointed to this position in March 2021. Prior to his current role, he served as Deputy Executive Director and Chief Engineer of TxDOT. Williams is responsible for overseeing the department's operations and ensuring the efficient and effective implementation of its policies and programs.

Texas' Growing Infrastructure Needs


As the Lone Star State continues to experience unprecedented growth in population and economic development, the demands on its infrastructure, particularly its transportation systems, have surged dramatically. Texas, known for its vast landscapes and bustling cities, faces a critical juncture in addressing the growing needs of its infrastructure to sustain and enhance the quality of life for its residents as well as to support its booming economy.


The state's roadways, particularly Interstate 35 (I-35), which serves as a vital artery for commerce and daily commuting across several major metropolitan areas, are emblematic of these growing pains. The I-35 corridor, notorious for its congestion and delays, has become a focal point for discussions about how to best expand and improve Texas' transportation network. With active construction projects expected to soon surpass the $40 billion mark, it's clear that TxDOT is undertaking an ambitious effort to transform the state's infrastructure landscape.


However, despite these significant investments, concerns loom about whether these efforts can keep pace with Texas' rapid growth. The notion that expansion projects like those on I-35 may seem "never-ending" underscores both the magnitude of the challenge at hand and TxDOT’s commitment to finding long-term solutions. As Texas continues on this trajectory of growth and development, strategic planning and substantial investments in infrastructure will be crucial in shaping a sustainable future for one of America’s most dynamic states.


Overview Of Txdot's Current Construction Projects


Central to these efforts is the expansive work on Interstate 35 (I-35), a vital artery that courses through the heart of Texas. This highway has long been notorious for its congestion issues, and TxDOT has embarked on a comprehensive plan to alleviate traffic bottlenecks and enhance safety. However, Marc Williams, TxDOT’s Executive Director, has candidly described the I-35 expansion project as potentially "never-ending."


What does it mean that I-35 Never Ending?


Beyond I-35, TxDOT's portfolio encompasses a wide array of projects designed to modernize Texas' roads, bridges, and transit systems. These initiatives range from improving rural roadways for safer travel to implementing cutting-edge technology for smarter traffic management. Each project is meticulously planned with an eye towards sustainability, efficiency, and minimal disruption to daily life.


In sum, TxDOT's current construction endeavors represent a monumental effort to future-proof Texas' transportation infrastructure. Through careful planning and substantial investment, these projects aim not only to meet today’s needs but also anticipate tomorrow’s challenges.


The Financial Milestone: Surpassing $40 Billion In Active Construction


In a striking testament to the scale and ambition of infrastructure development in Texas, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is on the brink of surpassing an unprecedented financial milestone. The active construction projects under its purview are expected to exceed a staggering total of $40 billion. This figure is not just a numerical benchmark but a vivid illustration of the state's commitment to enhancing mobility, safety, and economic prosperity through substantial investments in its transportation network.


At the heart of this colossal investment is the expansive I-35 corridor project, which has become emblematic of both the potential and challenges inherent in modern infrastructure development. Marc Williams, Executive Director of TxDOT, has candidly described the I-35 expansion as potentially "never-ending," highlighting the dynamic nature of transportation needs in one of America’s fastest-growing states. The project underscores an ongoing commitment to adapt and expand critical infrastructure in response to burgeoning population growth and evolving economic demands.


THE IMPACT ON COMMUTERS AND LOCAL COMMUNITIES  The Never-Ending Project


At the heart of this never-ending narrative are several factors. Firstly, the sheer volume of traffic that I-35 supports daily makes any construction work challenging. It requires meticulous planning to minimize disruption while ensuring worker safety. Secondly, urban development along I-35 continues to burgeon at an unprecedented rate, adding layers of complexity to any proposed infrastructure modifications or expansions.


The ongoing construction activities spearheaded by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), with expenditures poised to exceed a staggering $40 billion, have far-reaching implications for both commuters and local communities. The expansive undertaking on Interstate 35, described by Marc Williams, TxDOT's Executive Director, as potentially "never-ending," underscores the magnitude and complexity of these projects.


For daily commuters, the immediate impact is felt through increased travel times and unpredictable traffic patterns. The sight of orange cones and detour signs has become all too familiar, leading to a daily navigation puzzle that challenges even the most patient drivers. This constant state of flux not only tests resilience but also fuels anxiety about punctuality for work or personal commitments.

By staff August 13, 2025
Duda vs. Webflow: Why Duda Offers Superior Customization for Service-Based Businesses When selecting the ideal CMS (Content Management System) builder for service-based businesses—such as consultants, agencies, or local service providers—Duda and Webflow are two leading platforms that often come into consideration. Both offer powerful tools for creating professional, responsive websites, but they cater to different priorities. While Webflow is celebrated for its design flexibility, Duda stands out with its superior customization options, user-friendly interface, and client-focused features, making it the clear winner for service-based businesses. In this article, we’ll compare Duda and Webflow, highlighting why Duda excels for service-based businesses, and briefly touch on how Duda compares to WordPress. Introduction to Webflow and Duda Launched in 2013, Webflow is a versatile platform combining a visual design tool, CMS, and hosting solution. It’s known for enabling designers to create highly customizable, responsive websites using a drag-and-drop interface, with the option to add custom code (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) for advanced functionality. Webflow’s CMS is ideal for dynamic content like blogs or portfolios, appealing to creative professionals who prioritize design precision. What Is Duda? Founded in 2009, Duda is designed for agencies, SaaS companies, and small businesses that value speed, ease of use, and robust customization. Its intuitive interface, extensive template library, and client management tools make it perfect for service-based businesses managing multiple projects. Duda’s focus on collaboration and mobile-optimized designs ensures efficient workflows and professional results. Why Duda Wins: Duda’s blend of advanced customization, user-friendliness, and client management tools outshines Webflow’s design-centric approach for service-based businesses. User Interface and Ease of Use of Duda vs Webflow Webflow’s Interface Webflow’s interface caters to designers, offering granular control over every element, similar to professional design tools like Adobe XD. While powerful, its extensive features can be overwhelming for beginners or those without a design background, resulting in a steeper learning curve. Duda’s Interface Duda prioritizes ease of use with an intuitive drag-and-drop editor that simplifies website creation. Its pre-designed templates, tailored for various industries, enable service-based businesses to launch professional sites quickly. Duda’s straightforward interface is ideal for small business owners, marketers, or agencies needing efficient tools without complex design processes. Why Duda Wins: Duda’s user-friendly interface and quick setup make it more accessible than Webflow for service-based businesses prioritizing efficiency. Duda’s Advanced Customization Features Duda’s platform goes beyond templates, offering tools like the InstaSite feature for rapid site creation and advanced personalization options, such as geo-targeted content or device-specific layouts. These features allow service-based businesses to create tailored user experiences, like customized service pages for different locations or client types, without the technical complexity of Webflow’s code-heavy customization. This makes Duda a standout for businesses needing both flexibility and efficiency. Why Duda Wins: Duda’s superior customization options, combined with its user-friendly design, make it the better choice for service-based businesses seeking tailored, professional websites without a steep learning curve. E-Commerce and Functionality Webflow’s E-Commerce Webflow’s e-commerce tools allow for visually stunning online stores with seamless CMS integration for product listings and inventory management. However, its setup requires technical expertise, which may be a barrier for service-based businesses with limited resources. Duda’s E-Commerce Duda’s e-commerce platform is designed for simplicity, offering mobile-optimized templates and features like automatic tax calculations and secure payment gateways. Service-based businesses can easily set up booking systems or service packages, making it ideal for consultants or agencies selling services online. Duda’s straightforward e-commerce setup aligns better with service-based businesses needing quick, functional solutions. Choosing the best CMS for a Local Small Service business for SEO and Performance. Webflow’s SEO Capabilities Webflow provides detailed control over SEO elements like meta titles, descriptions, and alt texts, with clean HTML output for efficient search engine indexing. Its CMS supports dynamic content, but optimizing SEO requires technical knowledge. Duda’s SEO and Performance Duda simplifies SEO with automated sitemaps, an SEO checklist, and built-in optimization tools. Its focus on performance includes automatic image optimization and geographically distributed servers for fast load times. Both platforms offer SSL certificates, but Duda’s emphasis on speed enhances user experience and SEO rankings. Why Duda Wins: Duda’s automated SEO tools and high-performance websites make it easier for service-based businesses to rank well without technical expertise. Pricing and Support Webflow vs Duda Webflow’s tiered pricing includes basic plans for small projects and advanced plans for e-commerce and higher traffic. Its pricing can be steep for small businesses. Support includes tutorials, forums, and email, but lacks immediate assistance options. Duda’s competitive pricing caters to freelancers, small businesses, and agencies, with features like client management tools adding value. Its support includes 24/7 email, live chat, and phone assistance, ensuring quick help for busy professionals. Why Duda Wins: Duda’s affordable pricing and responsive support make it more practical for service-based businesses. Duda vs. WordPress for Service-Based Businesses Final Note: For service-based businesses, Duda is the clear winner over Webflow and even WordPress due to its superior customization, user-friendly interface, and client management tools. Its ability to deliver tailored, high-performing websites quickly, combined with robust support and competitive pricing, makes it ideal for consultants, agencies, and small businesses.
By Max July 3, 2025
Lamezcaatx: A Mezcaleria Rooted in Tradition and Innovation Founded by the sisters behind the acclaimed Veracruz Fonda , this venture promises to blend the rich heritage of mezcal with a modern, immersive experience. Located in a vibrant, food-centric neighborhood, Lamezcaatx aims to be a haven for mezcal enthusiasts and newcomers alike, offering a space where tradition, community, and craftsmanship converge. The sisters, renowned for their authentic Mexican cuisine, are now channeling their passion into celebrating mezcal’s storied legacy while fostering a deeper appreciation for its cultural significance. A Vision of Cultural Connection The vision for @Lamezcaatx stems from the sisters’ lifelong love for mezcal, a spirit deeply woven into Mexico’s cultural fabric. Inspired by their Mexican heritage and their success with Veracruz Fonda, they aim to create more than just a bar—a cultural crossroads where mezcal tells its story. Their goal is to educate patrons about the intricate artistry behind mezcal production, from agave harvesting to distillation. By sourcing mezcal from small, sustainable producers in regions like Oaxaca, Lamezcaatx ensures every bottle reflects the dedication, community, and heritage of the mezcaleros. Through curated tastings, workshops, and events, the sisters hope to build a community of enthusiasts who cherish mezcal’s authenticity and diversity. The Sisters Behind the Vision: Reyna and Maritza Vazquez The founders of La Mezca are the dynamic sisters who brought Veracruz Fonda to life, earning acclaim for their innovative yet authentic approach to Mexican cuisine. Raised in a household where the kitchen was the heart of family life, they grew up immersed in the flavors of Veracruz, a region known for its diverse culinary influences. At Veracruz Fonda, they created a dining experience that felt like a warm family gathering, blending traditional recipes with contemporary flair. This commitment to heritage and hospitality now drives Lamezcaatx, where they aim to share their passion for mezcal. Their new venture is a natural extension of their culinary philosophy, celebrating Mexico’s traditions while inviting patrons to explore the soulful spirit of mezcal. Unique Offerings at Lamezcaatx The concept for Lamezcaatx was born from the sisters’ deep connection to Mexican traditions and their experiences in mezcal-producing regions like Oaxaca. Family gatherings filled with stories, shared meals, and mezcal-inspired rituals shaped their appreciation for the spirit’s role in fostering community. Their travels introduced them to the artistry of mezcaleros, whose dedication to craftsmanship left a lasting impression. Lamezcaatx reflects their desire to share these stories, inviting patrons to experience mezcal as a cultural bridge. Every bottle and dish is a tribute to the families and traditions behind the spirit, offering an authentic glimpse into Mexico’s vibrant heritage. As La Mezca ATX prepares to welcome guests, it stands as a celebration of mezcal’s past and future, inviting all to savor its flavors and stories.
By staff writer July 3, 2025
Nestled in the heart of Austin, Texas, Waterloo Records & Video has been a cultural landmark since its founding in 1982. Born during Austin’s rise as the "Live Music Capital of the World," Waterloo quickly became a haven for music lovers, offering an unmatched selection of vinyl, CDs, and music videos. Despite the challenges of a shifting music industry, Waterloo has thrived by blending innovation with its deep-rooted passion for music, cementing its status as a beloved Austin institution. This article explores Waterloo’s journey, from its humble beginnings to its forward-thinking vision, and how it continues to shape Austin’s vibrant cultural landscape. Why is Waterloo Records Relocating? and where? Waterloo Records & Video, an Austin institution since 1982, is relocating from its long-standing location at 600 N Lamar Blvd to a larger space at 1105 N Lamar Blvd this spring due to the 2019 sale of its original property to Endeavor Real Estate Group for redevelopment into a mid-rise structure. This move, coupled with a transition to new ownership under Caren Kelleher of Gold Rush Vinyl and Trey Watson of Armadillo Records, ensures the store’s survival and growth in Austin’s evolving music scene. The new 50% larger location will modernize the Waterloo experience with innovative features, including a state-of-the-art stage for enhanced in-store performances and a standout gold record room. This unique room houses what Kelleher and Watson claim is the world’s only 24-karat gold record-plating machine, allowing customers to transform albums, like Aerosmith’s Rocks , into playable, gold-plated collectibles for around $100, with premium framing options available. Rare items, autographed albums, and vintage posters will be showcased in vibrant, Country Music Hall of Fame-style displays, making high-end merchandise more accessible and visually striking, elevating Waterloo’s role as a cultural hub . A Rich History Rooted in Austin’s Music Culture | Waterloo Records Waterloo Records & Video opened its doors on April 1, 1982, founded by Louis Karp and John Kunz, with a mission to celebrate music in all its forms. Located at 600A N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78703, the store became a cornerstone of Austin’s eclectic music scene, drawing locals and tourists alike. Its early years coincided with Austin’s growing reputation as a music hub, fueled by events like South by Southwest (SXSW) and Austin City Limits (ACL). Waterloo’s shelves, stocked with everything from punk to jazz, reflected the city’s diverse tastes, while its knowledgeable staff fostered a welcoming vibe for music enthusiasts. t’s a cultural destination that embodies Austin’s artistic spirit. Beyond its extensive music collection, the store offers a curated selection of local art, books, and films, celebrating the city’s creative diversity. Collaborations with Austin artisans result in unique pop-up events, from vinyl art showcases to workshops, enriching the visitor experience. The store’s commitment to live music remains unmatched. Waterloo hosts regular in-store performances, showcasing both local talents and international stars. These events, often free, turn the shop into an intimate venue, strengthening ties with Austin’s music community. For visitors seeking authentic Austin experiences, Waterloo is a must-visit, as highlighted in Travel Austin’s guide to local attractions .
By Writer July 1, 2025
Cold emailing is a strategic tool for outreach, but its success hinges on deliverability, which is influenced by domain reputation and spam scores. Certain industries are more receptive to cold emails due to their engagement patterns, domain trust, and lower spam complaint rates. Based on average domain rating (DR), spam score trends, and the estimated difficulty of landing in the main inbox . Understanding Domain Rating and Spam Score When it Comes to Email Marketing. Below is a list of the top 10 industries best suited for cold emailing, selected from the provided categories and others based on their average DR, spam score, and inbox placement potential. Each includes an estimated difficulty rating (1-10, where 1 is easiest and 10 is hardest) for landing in the main inbox, considering engagement, domain trust, and spam filter sensitivity. Data is derived from general trends, as specific DR and spam score data for these industries is not publicly available but can be estimated based on SEO and email marketing insights. Easiest Industries for Cold Email Based on Average Domain Rating and Spam Score Medical Practitioners Average Domain Rating : ~60-80 (established practices have strong, trusted domains due to professional websites and backlinks from medical directories). Spam Score : Low (~5-10%), due to professional email use and high engagement. Why It’s Easy : Doctors and healthcare providers check emails regularly for partnerships, software solutions, or equipment offers, with open rates around 25-30%. Robust email authentication is common. Main Inbox Difficulty : 1 (Highly receptive to relevant healthcare tools or services). Real Estate Average Domain Rating : ~50-70 (real estate firms have solid online presence due to listings and local SEO). Spam Score : Moderate (~10-15%), as some agents use shared or less-secure domains. Why It’s Easy : Agents are accustomed to outreach for CRM software, marketing tools, or lead generation services, with open rates ~20-25%. Main Inbox Difficulty : 3 (Moderate due to occasional domain misuse by spammers). Legal Consultants Average Domain Rating : ~60-80 (law firms maintain high-authority domains with backlinks from legal directories). Spam Score : Low (~5-10%), due to strict email compliance and high engagement. Why It’s Easy : Lawyers engage with emails about case management, compliance tools, or networking, with low complaint rates (~0.05%). Main Inbox Difficulty : 2 (Easy, provided emails are professional and relevant). Dentists (DDS) Average Domain Rating: ~50-70 (dental practices have moderately strong domains from local SEO and professional listings). Spam Score : Low to Moderate (~8-12%), due to consistent email use but occasional shared domain issues. Why It’s Easy : Dentists respond well to emails about practice management software, dental equipment, or marketing services, with open rates ~20%. Main Inbox Difficulty : 3 (Moderate, as some practices use less-secure email systems). Home Remodeling Average Domain Rating : ~40-60 (remodeling businesses have moderate DR due to local SEO but fewer backlinks than larger industries). Spam Score : Moderate (~15-20%), as some contractors use generic email providers with weaker authentication. Why It’s Easy : Contractors are receptive to emails about lead generation, project management tools, or supplier partnerships, with open rates ~15-20%. Main Inbox Difficulty : 4 (Moderate, due to inconsistent email infrastructure). Dermatologists Average Domain Rating : ~55-75 (similar to medical practitioners, with strong domains from professional listings). Spam Score : Low (~5-10%), due to professional email practices. Why It’s Easy : Dermatologists engage with emails about skincare products, medical devices, or practice marketing, with high open rates (~25%). Main Inbox Difficulty : 2 (Easy, similar to medical practitioners). HVAC Average Domain Rating : ~40-60 (HVAC companies have moderate DR from local SEO and service directories). Spam Score : Moderate (~15-20%), due to varied email practices and occasional spam complaints. Why It’s Easy : HVAC businesses respond to emails about service software, equipment suppliers, or local marketing, with open rates ~15%. Main Inbox Difficulty : 5 (Moderate, due to inconsistent domain authentication). Optometrists Average Domain Rating : ~50-70 (optometry practices have solid DR from local SEO and healthcare directories). Spam Score : Low (~5-10%), due to professional email practices. Why It’s Easy : Optometrists respond to emails about vision care products, practice management, or marketing, with open rates ~20-25%. Main Inbox Difficulty : 2 (Easy, due to high engagement and trusted domains). Industries to Approach with Caution Lawyers (General) : While legal consultants are highly receptive, general lawyers (e.g., solo practitioners) may have lower DR (~40-60) and moderate spam scores (~15-20%) due to varied email practices. Inbox difficulty is ~5, as some lack robust authentication. Auto Mechanics : These businesses often have lower DR (~30-50) and higher spam scores (~20-25%) due to less sophisticated email systems and lower engagement (~10-15% open rates). Plastic Surgeons : While similar to dermatologists, plastic surgeons may have slightly higher spam scores (~10-15%) due to promotional email saturation in the industry. DR is ~55-75, with inbox difficulty ~4. Best Practices for Cold Emailing Authentication : Ensure SPF, DKIM, and DMARC are correctly configured to avoid spam filters. Personalization : Tailor emails to the recipient’s industry and pain points to boost engagement. List Hygiene : Use tools like NeverBounce to verify email addresses and reduce bounces. Warm-Up : Gradually increase email volume to build sender reputation, starting with 10-50 emails daily. Monitoring : Check blacklist status with MXToolbox and monitor deliverability with Google Postmaster Tools. Regularly monitor authentication with tools like Google Postmaster Tools to ensure ongoing compliance and detect issues early. Sending a high volume of cold emails from a new or rarely used domain can trigger spam filters, as ESPs view sudden spikes as suspicious. Blacklists may flag domains with aggressive sending patterns. How to Fix It Start Small : Begin with a low volume (e.g., 10-50 emails daily) and gradually increase over weeks. For example, send 50 emails in week one, 100 in week two, and so on. Engage Warm Contacts : Send initial emails to engaged contacts (e.g., existing subscribers) to build a positive sender reputation before targeting cold leads. Monitor Metrics : Use tools like MailTester to check your email deliverability and sender score. If blacklisted, reduce sending volume immediately and contact the blacklist for removal instructions. Your sender reputation, determined by factors like bounce rates, engagement, and spam complaints, directly affects deliverability. A poor reputation increases blacklist risks. What to Focus on: Encourage replies or actions (e.g., clicking links) to signal to ESPs that your emails are wanted.
By STAFF WRITER February 15, 2025
Player 831, Jeffrey Randall Allen, took home the largest cash prize in TV history—$10 million—after outlasting 1,000 contestants in a series of intense physical, mental, and social challenges. The prize doubled from $5 million to $10 million following a dramatic coin toss in the penultimate episode, making Allen's victory even more monumental. Allen's win came after a nail-biting final challenge where he and Player 830, Twana Barnett, had to choose from ten briefcases, one containing the $10 million cheque. Allen guessed correctly on his first try and plans to use part of his winnings to fund research for his son's rare condition, Creatine Transporter Deficiency. While Allen claimed the top prize, MrBeast revealed that over $20 million in prizes were distributed among 85 contestants, including a $1.8 million private island won by Player 952, Mia Speight Beast Game has been lauded for its massive scale and record-breaking 50 Guinness World Records, becoming Prime Video's most-watched unscripted show with 50 million global views. While Season 2 has not been officially confirmed, MrBeast has expressed confidence in its continuation, leaving fans eager for more high-stakes drama and unprecedented prizes. Beast Games Controversy and Lawsuit Beast Games is a reality competition series created by YouTube star Jimmy Donaldson , known by his online alias MrBeast , in partnership with Amazon Prime Video is being sued by contestants . Beast Games is inspired by both MrBeast's popular YouTube challenge videos and the global phenomenon " Squid Game ," although without the lethal consequences. Contestants participate in a mix of physical, mental, and social challenges, set in grand, purpose-built environments, including a specially constructed city dubbed " Beast City . " The show has attracted significant attention for its scale, with a reported production budget over $100 million , and for breaking numerous world records during its filming. Where to watch Beast Games ? Beast Game premiered on December 19, 2024, with episodes released weekly on Prime Video. Despite its popularity, with over 50 million viewers in the first 25 days, it has also faced criticism for its high-stakes nature, the potential message it sends about money, and controversy surrounding alleged poor working conditions during production. Nevertheless, it represents a significant crossover of online content creators into mainstream media, showcasing MrBeast's ability to captivate an audience across different platforms. BEAST GAMES SEASON 2 CONFIRMED ? Yes, welll not technically. MrBeast (Jimmy Donaldson) has expressed confidence in the continuation of the series. In interviews, he has hinted at plans for future seasons, stating, "I love what we did with Beast Games... There's no way we're not," indicating a strong likelihood of a Season 2. Web Content : Articles from various sources, like esports.gg and Yahoo, have discussed the potential for Season 2, with some citing MrBeast's comments as a near-confirmation, although no official announcement from Amazon has been made. Application Website : The official Beast Games website encourages people to sign up for notifications when applications for future seasons reopen, suggesting planning for more seasons. W hile these signs collectively point towards a high probability of Beast Games returning for a second season, without an official statement from Amazon Prime Video, it remains unconfirmed.
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