Abilene Traffic Update: New All-Way Stops At I-20 Intersections

Why Is It  Changing in Abilene, Texas

Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) says the intersections at Shirley Road and Hayter Road, where they meet the north and south Interstate-20 frontage roads, are being converted to all-way stops (aka: four-way stops). The agency points to increased traffic in the area and along the IH-20 corridor. Translation: more vehicles, more conflict points, and a greater need for predictable right-of-way. Expect a short adjustment period and plan for a little extra drive time as everyone gets used to the new pattern.

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Where and When (West Texas Drive Time)

Crews are installing all-way stop control at Shirley Rd & IH-20 frontage and Hayter Rd & IH-20 frontage. As soon as the signs are up, the rules change. TxDOT advises anyone who regularly uses these intersections to slow down on approach, scan early, and prepare to stop, especially during peak hours and after dark, when visibility drops.

Four-Way Stop 101 (Texas Rules at a Glance)

• Full stop, every time. No rolling through.
• First in, first out. The vehicle that arrives first goes first.
• Tie? Yield right. If two vehicles arrive at the same time, the one on the right has the right-of-way.
• Left turns yield. Turning left? Yield to oncoming traffic going straight.
• Pedestrians first. Always yield to people in the crosswalk.
• Make eye contact. A quick look and a nod can prevent a mistake.

Pro Tips for a Safer Abilene Drive

• Signal your move (even at a stop) so others aren’t guessing.
• Count “one-Mississippi” after your full stop to kill the rolling-stop habit.
• Watch big rigs and trailers. Give them room—they need wider turns and longer starts.
• Leave a gap at night and in the rain. Visibility and traction both suffer.
• Don’t block the box. If your exit isn’t clear, wait.

So remember, when you roll up to those new all-way stops near IH-20, take a breath, smile, and "Drive Like a Texan: Kind, Courteous, and Safe". That’s how we keep West Texas rolling strong and everyone getting home safely.

Need Details or To Report Issues?

For questions or concerns, contact Alaisha Montanez at Alaisha.Montanez@txdot.gov
or (325) 676-6817. Drive patient, drive kind, and we’ll all get where we’re going safer.

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