Area chamber continues push for Interstate 69

The Texarkana Chamber of Commerce continues its efforts toward the development of Interstate 69.

During the chamber’s May meeting, board chairman Cory Floyd reported on a trip he and Bowie County Judge James Carlow took to Washington concerning I-69. They met with congressmen, senators and transportation officials from Canada and Mexico.

Across the board, there was enthusiasm for the project, Floyd said.

“The Federal Transportation Department is very supportive of the project,” Floyd said. “And President Trump is highly enthusiastic about such infrastructure projects, recognizing the need to support such projects in ‘flyover country’, the vast swath of the United States between the coasts.”

Funding of these projects was also discussed and ultimately will likely involve joint funding between federal and more local government entities as well as “private/public partnerships with industry.

Chamber member Dennis Lewis of the Texas Military Preparedness Commission shared news about former Red River Army Depot commander, Maj. Gen Daniel Mitchell, who relinquished command of the post in 2011 at the rank of colonel.

“He’s now a two-star general and is reporting to the Army Material Command for his next assignment,” Lewis said.

Mike Malone mentioned tThe chamber is in its last week of gathering resources for flood victims in Northwest Arkansas.

“They just need money and gift cards at this point,” Malone said. ”The local relief agencies don’t need food, clothes or any such supplies at this point. The locals have begun the rebuilding stage and just need resources to purchase supplies for those efforts,” he said.

The chamber will accept assistance for flood victims until the end of this week. To donate, call 903-792-7191.