
SAN MARCOS, TX – As Webber LLC nears the end of its monumental $107 million I-35 at SH 123 project in San Marcos, Texas, drivers are being warned that the real traffic jam isn’t the construction—it's the cops. Yes, that’s right folks: If you see one of those slow traffic signs, it’s not just a heads-up about construction—it’s a subtle nudge to let you know your wallet is about to feel a little lighter.
The long-awaited project, which has been a work-in-progress since August 2021, promises to deliver smoother roads, revamped intersections, and upgraded bridges. But don’t be fooled by all those shiny new lanes and pedestrian paths. The true final phase? An unspoken partnership between local law enforcement and the fine-tuning of your driving skills. Apparently, when construction ends, the ticketing begins.

“Traffic flow improvements are great and all, but have you ever thought about how much more efficient it is to just, you know, issue tickets?” said one local officer, handing a citation to a bewildered driver who was “just going with the flow.” Officers are quick to remind you that any minor infraction, like slowing down a smidge too much at a yellow light, will be noticed—and, of course, penalized.
TxDOT's Antonio Luján, who is undoubtedly under the watchful eye of the local traffic patrol, was keen to highlight the benefits of the project. "I-35 is the backbone of Central Texas, and this project will make it safer and more efficient. But just remember, the moment you start seeing those orange cones, you’re also going to start seeing a lot of flashing red lights."
The truth is, while the project has certainly been an impressive feat—five completed benchmarks, including bridge upgrades and frontage road reconstructions—the main improvement seems to be in ticket revenue. The police are out in full force, ready to catch anyone veering even slightly off course. With each completed phase of construction, drivers seem to be facing more and more opportunities for traffic violations. No, it’s not because the road is more confusing—it’s because they want to make sure your driving record is.
"We're right on track to finish ahead of schedule," said TxDOT officials, trying to distract from the real issue at hand. "Webber has been a fantastic partner, ensuring the project progresses smoothly." What they didn’t mention is that Webber's success in keeping the project ahead of schedule may have unintentionally provided more opportunities for police to catch drivers at their most vulnerable.
The future of the area will also include sewage and water line upgrades, which will almost certainly become the perfect excuse for more “routine inspections” that conveniently coincide with your commute. Remember, it's not just about what's being improved—it's about what’s being caught on your dashcam.
So, as Webber LLC wraps up its final touches on the I-35 expansion, take solace in the fact that you’ll soon be driving on nicer roads. Just be careful to avoid making eye contact with the officers lurking by the exit ramps—they’ve been waiting for this moment for years.
And if you find yourself pulled over? Don’t worry. The road is smoother now, but you’ll probably still be paying the price for your “minor” infractions.
Welcome to the age of construction... and tickets.
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