College Station, TX, September 4, 2025
News Summary
The Texas A&M System Board of Regents met recently to discuss significant research growth and changes to school zone timings in College Station. Texas A&M University reported $1.4 billion in research expenditures, reinforcing its status as a ‘Research 1’ institution. Additionally, a school zone extension of ten minutes was approved to enhance student safety during pick-up times. Local crime news included a shooting incident, leading to the arrest of the suspect without injuries. Mayor John Nichols also addressed tax rates during a local radio show.
College Station, Texas – Research Growth and School Zone Changes Discussed by Texas A&M System Board of Regents
The Texas A&M System Board of Regents held a series of important meetings last week, focusing on research growth within the Texas A&M University system and changes to school zone times in College Station. During these discussions, key figures highlighted the impressive research expenditures and the commitment to enhancing the university’s research status.
In the 2024 fiscal year, Texas A&M University reported $1.4 billion in research expenditures, reinforcing its status as a “Research 1” institution. This classification is significant in academic circles, indicating a high level of research activity. Additionally, five regional universities within the Texas A&M system that hold “Research 2” status collectively reported $177 million in research expenditures. The board is focused on increasing the number of both Research 1 and Research 2 institutions within their system to enhance overall academic and research capabilities.
John Bellinger, who chairs the newly formed research committee, stated that preserving and promoting College Station’s status as a Research 1 institution is vital. This reputation not only serves as a brand of excellence but also facilitates extensive research development across campuses within the system. Bob Albritton, the board chairman, noted that there are still numerous untapped opportunities for advancements in the system that should not be overlooked.
School Zone Adjustments in College Station
In a related decision, the College Station City Council approved an extension of school zone times at the request of the College Station Independent School District (CSISD). The extension accommodates a ten-minute increase in the school day, necessitating a new timing for school zone speed limits. Senior traffic engineer Randell Smith reported that the previous timing was inadequate, as it ended while parents were still in line to pick up their children after school.
Adjustments to the school zone flashing signals were implemented at no cost, allowing for quick reprogramming. However, changing the associated signs that do not have signals did incur a cost of $1,480.
Recent Law Enforcement Activities
In local crime news, a series of gunfire incidents took place on Sunday night, August 31, along Rudder Freeway in Bryan. The events led to a police chase and the arrest of 28-year-old Daquandrance Bell. Bell allegedly fired multiple rounds at a truck after the driver honked in response to being cut off in traffic. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported, but the truck was damaged, with at least one shot breaking a window.
Following his arrest, Bell was charged with several offenses, including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and evading police. As of September 3, he remains in custody with bonds set totaling $240,000.
Discussion on Local Policies
On September 3, College Station Mayor John Nichols addressed various topics regarding local governance, including tax rates and impact fees, during his scheduled appearance on WTAW’s Infomaniacs. His remarks aimed to clarify the city’s stance on financial matters affecting residents and local businesses.
FAQ
What were the main outcomes of the Texas A&M System Board of Regents meeting?
The board discussed significant research expenditures, aiming to increase the number of Research 1 and Research 2 institutions within the Texas A&M system.
What research expenditures were reported?
Texas A&M University reported $1.4 billion in research expenditures for the 2024 fiscal year, while five regional universities together reported $177 million.
What changes were made to the school zone in College Station?
The school zone times were extended by ten minutes to accommodate an increase in the school day, ensuring safety for parents picking up children.
What crime incidents occurred recently in College Station?
A shooting incident on August 31 resulted in the arrest of Daquandrance Bell, who allegedly fired shots at another vehicle during a traffic dispute.
Has there been any local discussion on tax rates?
Yes, College Station Mayor John Nichols discussed tax rates and impact fees on a local radio show.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Texas A&M Research Expenditures | $1.4 billion for 2024 fiscal year |
| Research 1 Institutions | Texas A&M University |
| Research 2 Institutions | Five regional universities with $177 million in research |
| School Zone Changes | Ten-minute extension for safety |
| Recent Crime Incident | Gunfire on Rudder Freeway; suspect arrested |
| Mayor Discussion Topics | Tax rates and impact fees |
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Additional Resources
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- Wikipedia: College Football
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- Google Search: Women’s Soccer
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- Google Scholar: College Soccer
- Texas A&M Football vs. Utah State
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College Football
- Mike Elko Aggie Football Hour
- Google News: Texas A&M Football
Author: STAFF HERE COLLEGE WRITER
The COLLEGE STATION STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECollegeStation.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in College Station, Brazos County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Brazos Valley Fair & Rodeo, Chilifest, and Aggie Muster. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Brazos Valley, plus leading businesses in education, biotechnology, and retail that power the local economy such as Texas A&M University, Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies, and H-E-B. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
