A ready mix truck travels on the reconstructed southbound Interstate 35 exit ramp 206 to Aquarena Springs-Loop 82 that opened to traffic ten days early on Jan. 7. Both Ramp 206 and the new River Ridge entrance ramp were opened on Friday, well ahead of the scheduled open date of Jan. 17. Crews will continue work around the ramps to complete signage, landscaping and illumination. The Texas Department of Transportation, with assistance from the city of San Marcos Capital Improvements Department, is coordinating the $1.3 million project to improve Fire Department access to the interstate and ease some of the heavy traffic at the Aquarena Springs intersection resulting from development on River Ridge Parkway. Hunter Industries Ltd. of San Marcos is working six days a week to expedite project progress during the winter break for students. PHOTO by DON ANDERS