City and County approve key agreements to update ‘heartbeat of Tyler’

The Tyler City Council and Smith County Commissioners Court have taken a major step toward transforming Downtown Tyler. During a joint meeting on Tuesday, both governing bodies approved key agreements and funding to advance the long-planned Downtown Infrastructure Improvement Project.

To move the project forward, the Tyler City Council also voted to authorize the City Manager to execute a contract with The Fain Group for construction services. The contract includes extensive underground utility work, roadway reconstruction, new sidewalks, lighting and landscaping. The total project investment is $25.6 million, including $10.7 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds exchanged through the City's Half Cent Sales Tax Fund, with the remaining portion being paid for by Half Cent Sales Tax, Tyler Water Utilities and City Information Technology funds.

Construction is expected to begin in fall 2025 and continue over the next three years. The project will be managed in phases to reduce impacts on businesses, visitors, and residents. Phase I will consist of major improvements to Erwin Street, Broadway Avenue, Ferguson Street and College Avenue, and include water and sewer improvements. Phase II will complete construction of the new green space on the west side of the Downtown Square.

Some street closures will begin as early as July 2025 to support preliminary construction work. The City and County will provide regular updates throughout the process to keep the public informed. Information about road closures, construction timelines and upcoming public meetings will be shared online on a project website and social media channels.

"Let's talk about the three reasons we're doing this: the commitment to infrastructure, economic development and investment in the heartbeat of Tyler... and that is what we've just done," said Mayor Don Warren.

As part of the meeting, both bodies voted to approve interlocal agreements between the City of Tyler and Smith County that include terms for shared public use, long-term maintenance and coordination of the revitalized square.

"We are going to see something special happen right here in Downtown Tyler, the heart of Smith County," said Smith County Judge Neal Franklin.