The Brownwood Bulletin doesn’t write much about it, but there’s quite a list of changes coming to the Brownwood/Early area. Keep your head up and you can stay in touch with what’s happening. Those of you who travel to this area may wish to take note, as many new businesses are coming.

1. The construction at the 377/67 intersection is complete. There are now SEVEN lanes on 377 and FIVE on 67/377. There are now two straight and one turn lane on Clements street (between CVS and Blockbuster). From 377 S, there are now two dedicated left, one dedicated straight, and two dedicated right turn signals.

2. You’ll notice a big four-story hotel behind CVS/McDonald’s. That’s supposed to be a La Quinta Inn. Rumor has it that IHOP is going to build next door, although that is strictly unconfirmed.

3. A new traffic signal has been erected where the old John’s Pawn once stood. Dart, the old Wendy’s building, and the old Burger King, have been demolished. Dart is now open in a new building in Early next door to Cousin’s Exxon. The new signal will support a new road being cut in along the Adams Branch that will lead to the back area of Underwood’s. On this new road will be -confirmed- a new Walgreen’s and an Arby’s restaurant.

4. A new Dollar General store is now open at 2000 Hwy 377 S.

5. TXDOT is preparing another major overhaul over at the 67/183 intersection. Rumor has it some businesses will be demolished to make way for road development.

6. The old Johnson-Ross property in the 200 block of Early Blvd sold once again. A reliable source told me that Aaron’s Rentals is building on the corner nearest the Chicken Express, and a Holiday Inn is still scheduled to be constructed on the other portion. Holiday Inn is taking their own sweet time.

7. The state DHHS building is now open on Crockett & S.F. Austin.

8. Commerce Square sold recently, with new stores expected to arrive. The land behind Commerce Square is scheduled to be developed into housing.

9. Mi Familia is being rebuilt (Nearly finished!!). Local construction company U.S. Construction is handling the rebuild. It is expected to reopen Spring 2008.

I’m sure there’s more I’m missing. If you know of something or can confirm any rumors, please let me know.