More than one million students across North Texas are preparing to return to the classroom next week, bringing an immediate surge in weekday road traffic, active school zones, and school bus routes.
At the same time, Texas families have a final opportunity to save on essential supplies as the state's annual sales tax holiday wraps up Sunday at midnight.
According to the Texas Comptroller’s Office, the three-day sales tax holiday exempts most clothing, footwear, school supplies, and backpacks priced under $100 from state and local sales taxes. State officials estimate Texas shoppers will save approximately $112 million in combined state and local sales tax over the course of the weekend. The tax exemptions apply to purchases made at physical brick-and-mortar stores across North Texas as well as online retailers shipping directly to Texas addresses.
With major school districts including Dallas ISD, Fort Worth ISD, and Frisco ISD resuming classes Monday morning, local public safety agencies are urging drivers to prepare for significant morning and afternoon commute delays. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) warns motorists to expect increased congestion on main thoroughfares and neighborhood streets, particularly between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and again from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Law enforcement agencies across the Metroplex are emphasizing school zone safety as officers deploy extra traffic enforcement around campuses. State law strictly prohibits the use of handheld wireless devices while driving through active school zones, with fines reaching up to $200. Additionally, state authorities remind drivers that passing a stopped school bus with its red lights flashing and stop arm extended is illegal and carries fines up to $1,250 for a first offense.
No major traffic disruptions or school zone incidents have been reported ahead of the weekend, but transportation officials advise drivers to give themselves extra time beginning Monday morning.
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