Waxahachie Daily Brief: Jury Duty Canceled, Downtown Cleanup Continues

Jury Duty Canceled for Friday

Ellis County officials confirmed that jury selection scheduled for today, Friday, February 6, has been canceled. Residents who were summoned for jury service do not need to report to the courthouse.

County staff expressed appreciation for residents who were prepared to serve and noted that any future jury dates will be communicated directly to those affected. No additional action is required from those who were called in for today.

Downtown Rail Cleanup Remains Active

Cleanup work continues near downtown Waxahachie following a freight train derailment involving ethanol tank cars. Officials have reiterated that no leaks were detected during the incident and that there is no ongoing risk to public safety.

Even so, sections of the area surrounding the rail corridor remain closed as crews focus on removing railcars and repairing damaged infrastructure. The work is ongoing and highly visible near downtown.

Businesses located closest to the tracks continue to experience traffic disruptions tied to the cleanup effort. Drivers traveling through the area are encouraged to allow extra time, follow posted detours, and remain alert to changing road conditions.

Upcoming County Office Closure

Looking ahead on the county calendar, Ellis County offices will be closed on Monday, February 16, in observance of Presidents Day. All county offices are scheduled to reopen on Tuesday for normal business hours.

Residents planning courthouse visits, record requests, or other in-person county services are encouraged to plan accordingly. The closure follows a week that has already included schedule changes and courthouse-related announcements.

What Residents Should Know

• Those summoned for jury duty on February 6 do not need to report.
• Rail cleanup near downtown is ongoing, with road closures still in place.
• County offices will be closed Monday, February 16, for Presidents Day.

As conditions change, residents are encouraged to watch for official county updates and posted signage around affected downtown areas.

Sources

• https://www.elliscountytx.gov/
• https://www.cbsnews.com/texas/news/waxahachie-train-derailment-ethanol-cleanup-2025/
• https://www.elliscountytx.gov/99/County-Courthouse-and-Offices