Downtown Improvement Project

Share Downtown Improvement Project on Facebook Share Downtown Improvement Project on Twitter Share Downtown Improvement Project on Linkedin Email Downtown Improvement Project link

Road opening beginning Wednesday, Dec. 10:

  • Bois D’Arc Street between Elm Street and Woldert Street is expected to reopen as brick street removal in this area advances.

Closures and traffic changes beginning Wednesday, Dec. 10:

  • Woldert Street, between Bois D’Arc Street and Ferrell Place, will be closed through Friday, Dec. 19, for continued brick street removal near the soccer field.

  • College Avenue remains closed between Ferguson Street and just south of Erwin Street as part of the Downtown Improvement Project.

  • Erwin Street remains closed from west of College Avenue to Broadway Avenue. The alley at South College Avenue also remains closed for wastewater (sewer) work and is expected to reopen after the start of the new year.

  • As part of the Consent Decree work, closures continue on:

  • East Erwin Street from Center Avenue to just west of Thompson Avenue (local access only)

  • Adams Avenue south of East Erwin Street (local access only)

  • Center Avenue between Erwin Street and Elm Street (local access only)

  • Fannin Avenue, where northbound traffic remains shifted to the west with one lane open

  • East Elm Street from Broadway Avenue to Fannin Avenue, with one southbound lane remaining open on Spring Avenue

  • Temporary pavement work near the Smith County Jail will continue through December, with major construction resuming in January.

  • Erwin Street between Spring Avenue and Fannin Avenue remains closed as part of the Smith County Courthouse improvements.

  • Fannin Avenue between Erwin Street and Ferguson Street also remains closed in this work zone.

For an ADA complaint version of the Downtown Street Closures map, please email PublicRelations@TylerTexas.com.

Access and detours
Access to nearby businesses, parking areas, and sidewalks will remain available where possible. Drivers are encouraged to follow posted detour signs, allow extra travel time, and use alternate routes when possible while work is underway in the Downtown area.

Free parking is available at the Fair Plaza Parking Garage, located at 208 S. College Ave., and the Smith County Parking Garage, located at 210 E. Ferguson St.

Free Downtown Evening Shuttle Service

Beginning Friday, December 12, visitors to Downtown Tyler will have a new, free way to navigate the area during evening hours. The City of Tyler is partnering with Tyler Valet to offer a fixed-route shuttle service with clearly marked pick-up and drop-off points.

Shuttle stops are easy to find, with bright yellow signs placed throughout the Downtown area. Riders can hop on and off at any stop along the route at no cost.

The Downtown evening shuttle will operate during the following times:

  • Thursdays: 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

  • Fridays and Saturdays: 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Shuttle Stops
Stop 1: Broadway Ave Side of Fair Plaza Parking Garage (Tyler Transit bus stop)
Stop 2: W. Erwin St., in front of Liberty Hall
Stop 3: E. Ferguson St. entrance of Smith County Parking Garage
Stop 4: Northwest Corner of the Ferguson and College Ave intersection (Plaza Tower)
Stop 5: Plaza Tower parking lot (N. Bois D’Arc Ave.)
Stop 6: Southeast corner of College Ave. and Elm St. Intersection, (Fair Plaza Parking Garage)


About the Project

Big changes are coming to Downtown Tyler. Over the next three years, the heart of our city will be transformed into a more vibrant, walkable, and welcoming place for everyone to enjoy. This exciting project is the result of a strong partnership between the City of Tyler and Smith County, working together to create a downtown that connects people, supports businesses, and reflects the future of our growing community.

At the center of this project is the complete redesign of the Downtown Square. The new square will feature a beautiful community green space, places to sit, public restrooms, and even a small area for food trucks. This new area will offer open space designed to host large events, festivals, and community gatherings throughout the year.

In addition to the green space, major upgrades are coming to the streets and sidewalks surrounding downtown. Streets will be converted back to two-way traffic with the addition of roundabouts to help slow down traffic without stopping the flow. Sidewalks will be wider to give pedestrians more space, and new landscaping, lighting, benches, and outdoor dining areas will make Downtown more inviting. The improvements will make it easier and safer to walk, shop, dine, and enjoy Downtown.

The project also includes a major investment in parking, mobility, and future growth. Smith County has already completed a new parking garage with 500 spaces, and construction is now underway for the new Smith County Courthouse, which will serve as a landmark at the center of Downtown. Additional parking changes, road closures, and traffic adjustments will continue during construction to keep the project moving forward.

To support economic growth, the City and County are also working with private partners to bring new businesses, restaurants, and residential spaces to Downtown. Already, several historic buildings are being renovated, and plans are underway for a new boutique hotel, The Blackstone by Valencia Hotel Group, which will bring visitors and new energy to the area.

The Downtown Improvement Project is being carefully planned in phases to minimize disruption while moving the work forward. Phase I will focus on improvements along Erwin Street, Broadway Avenue, Ferguson Street, and College Avenue. Phase II will complete the new West green space on the Square. Construction began in fall 2025 and continues over the next three years, with a total investment of $25.5 million, including $10.7 million of allocated ARPA funds exchanged through the Half Cent Sales Tax Fund, and the remaining portion paid for by Tyler Water Utilities and Information Technology funds.

The Downtown Improvement Project is more than just construction. It is about building a Downtown that reflects who we are as a community and where we are going as a city. By investing in Downtown Tyler, we are creating a destination for residents and visitors, supporting local businesses, and ensuring that Tyler remains a great place to live, work, and enjoy for generations to come.

Scroll to the bottom of the page to ask a question about the Downtown Improvement Project!



Road opening beginning Wednesday, Dec. 10:

  • Bois D’Arc Street between Elm Street and Woldert Street is expected to reopen as brick street removal in this area advances.

Closures and traffic changes beginning Wednesday, Dec. 10:

  • Woldert Street, between Bois D’Arc Street and Ferrell Place, will be closed through Friday, Dec. 19, for continued brick street removal near the soccer field.

  • College Avenue remains closed between Ferguson Street and just south of Erwin Street as part of the Downtown Improvement Project.

  • Erwin Street remains closed from west of College Avenue to Broadway Avenue. The alley at South College Avenue also remains closed for wastewater (sewer) work and is expected to reopen after the start of the new year.

  • As part of the Consent Decree work, closures continue on:

  • East Erwin Street from Center Avenue to just west of Thompson Avenue (local access only)

  • Adams Avenue south of East Erwin Street (local access only)

  • Center Avenue between Erwin Street and Elm Street (local access only)

  • Fannin Avenue, where northbound traffic remains shifted to the west with one lane open

  • East Elm Street from Broadway Avenue to Fannin Avenue, with one southbound lane remaining open on Spring Avenue

  • Temporary pavement work near the Smith County Jail will continue through December, with major construction resuming in January.

  • Erwin Street between Spring Avenue and Fannin Avenue remains closed as part of the Smith County Courthouse improvements.

  • Fannin Avenue between Erwin Street and Ferguson Street also remains closed in this work zone.

For an ADA complaint version of the Downtown Street Closures map, please email PublicRelations@TylerTexas.com.

Access and detours
Access to nearby businesses, parking areas, and sidewalks will remain available where possible. Drivers are encouraged to follow posted detour signs, allow extra travel time, and use alternate routes when possible while work is underway in the Downtown area.

Free parking is available at the Fair Plaza Parking Garage, located at 208 S. College Ave., and the Smith County Parking Garage, located at 210 E. Ferguson St.

Free Downtown Evening Shuttle Service

Beginning Friday, December 12, visitors to Downtown Tyler will have a new, free way to navigate the area during evening hours. The City of Tyler is partnering with Tyler Valet to offer a fixed-route shuttle service with clearly marked pick-up and drop-off points.

Shuttle stops are easy to find, with bright yellow signs placed throughout the Downtown area. Riders can hop on and off at any stop along the route at no cost.

The Downtown evening shuttle will operate during the following times:

  • Thursdays: 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

  • Fridays and Saturdays: 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Shuttle Stops
Stop 1: Broadway Ave Side of Fair Plaza Parking Garage (Tyler Transit bus stop)
Stop 2: W. Erwin St., in front of Liberty Hall
Stop 3: E. Ferguson St. entrance of Smith County Parking Garage
Stop 4: Northwest Corner of the Ferguson and College Ave intersection (Plaza Tower)
Stop 5: Plaza Tower parking lot (N. Bois D’Arc Ave.)
Stop 6: Southeast corner of College Ave. and Elm St. Intersection, (Fair Plaza Parking Garage)


About the Project

Big changes are coming to Downtown Tyler. Over the next three years, the heart of our city will be transformed into a more vibrant, walkable, and welcoming place for everyone to enjoy. This exciting project is the result of a strong partnership between the City of Tyler and Smith County, working together to create a downtown that connects people, supports businesses, and reflects the future of our growing community.

At the center of this project is the complete redesign of the Downtown Square. The new square will feature a beautiful community green space, places to sit, public restrooms, and even a small area for food trucks. This new area will offer open space designed to host large events, festivals, and community gatherings throughout the year.

In addition to the green space, major upgrades are coming to the streets and sidewalks surrounding downtown. Streets will be converted back to two-way traffic with the addition of roundabouts to help slow down traffic without stopping the flow. Sidewalks will be wider to give pedestrians more space, and new landscaping, lighting, benches, and outdoor dining areas will make Downtown more inviting. The improvements will make it easier and safer to walk, shop, dine, and enjoy Downtown.

The project also includes a major investment in parking, mobility, and future growth. Smith County has already completed a new parking garage with 500 spaces, and construction is now underway for the new Smith County Courthouse, which will serve as a landmark at the center of Downtown. Additional parking changes, road closures, and traffic adjustments will continue during construction to keep the project moving forward.

To support economic growth, the City and County are also working with private partners to bring new businesses, restaurants, and residential spaces to Downtown. Already, several historic buildings are being renovated, and plans are underway for a new boutique hotel, The Blackstone by Valencia Hotel Group, which will bring visitors and new energy to the area.

The Downtown Improvement Project is being carefully planned in phases to minimize disruption while moving the work forward. Phase I will focus on improvements along Erwin Street, Broadway Avenue, Ferguson Street, and College Avenue. Phase II will complete the new West green space on the Square. Construction began in fall 2025 and continues over the next three years, with a total investment of $25.5 million, including $10.7 million of allocated ARPA funds exchanged through the Half Cent Sales Tax Fund, and the remaining portion paid for by Tyler Water Utilities and Information Technology funds.

The Downtown Improvement Project is more than just construction. It is about building a Downtown that reflects who we are as a community and where we are going as a city. By investing in Downtown Tyler, we are creating a destination for residents and visitors, supporting local businesses, and ensuring that Tyler remains a great place to live, work, and enjoy for generations to come.

Scroll to the bottom of the page to ask a question about the Downtown Improvement Project!



Ask a Question

Do you have questions about the Downtown Improvement Project? Ask them here to get a response from a project team member.

loader image
Forgot password?
Didn't receive confirmation?
Register Now
Seems like you are already registered, please provide the password. Forgot your password? Create a new one now.
  • Share When should the work on Erwin in front of Rick's expected to finish up? on Facebook Share When should the work on Erwin in front of Rick's expected to finish up? on Twitter Share When should the work on Erwin in front of Rick's expected to finish up? on Linkedin Email When should the work on Erwin in front of Rick's expected to finish up? link

    When should the work on Erwin in front of Rick's expected to finish up?

    Mable asked about 1 month ago

    This section is estimated to be completed in spring of 2026.

  • Share Will there be on street parking in front of businesses? on Facebook Share Will there be on street parking in front of businesses? on Twitter Share Will there be on street parking in front of businesses? on Linkedin Email Will there be on street parking in front of businesses? link

    Will there be on street parking in front of businesses?

    Pamboydbombyk asked 22 days ago

    Yes, the same number of parking spaces will be available as previously. They will be just angled differently to accommodate the two-way traffic.


  • Share I am in a wheelchair and it is very difficult to get around downtown, I mostly avoid going downtown all together. How much of these changes will be wheelchair accessible and make it easier for me to get around and explore downtown more? on Facebook Share I am in a wheelchair and it is very difficult to get around downtown, I mostly avoid going downtown all together. How much of these changes will be wheelchair accessible and make it easier for me to get around and explore downtown more? on Twitter Share I am in a wheelchair and it is very difficult to get around downtown, I mostly avoid going downtown all together. How much of these changes will be wheelchair accessible and make it easier for me to get around and explore downtown more? on Linkedin Email I am in a wheelchair and it is very difficult to get around downtown, I mostly avoid going downtown all together. How much of these changes will be wheelchair accessible and make it easier for me to get around and explore downtown more? link

    I am in a wheelchair and it is very difficult to get around downtown, I mostly avoid going downtown all together. How much of these changes will be wheelchair accessible and make it easier for me to get around and explore downtown more?

    Samajam21 asked 2 months ago

    All sidewalks within this project scope are being widened to 20 feet, allowing wheelchairs plenty of space. New ADA ramps will be installed at intersections, storefront parking areas, and the future green space. Overall, sidewalk crossings and pedestrian-accessible areas utilize a curb-less design, allowing for greater accessibility for wheelchairs, bicycles, strollers, and more.

  • Share Where will families park for restaurants on the southern side of the square such as Don Juan's? on Facebook Share Where will families park for restaurants on the southern side of the square such as Don Juan's? on Twitter Share Where will families park for restaurants on the southern side of the square such as Don Juan's? on Linkedin Email Where will families park for restaurants on the southern side of the square such as Don Juan's? link

    Where will families park for restaurants on the southern side of the square such as Don Juan's?

    David asked 3 months ago

    There are two free parking garages Downtown: the Fair Plaza Parking Garage at 208 S. College Ave. and the Smith County Parking Garage at 210 E. Ferguson Ave. The regular on-street parking spaces will be open in phases throughout the project. 

  • Share Will the city plant more trees for shade along the sidewalk areas? on Facebook Share Will the city plant more trees for shade along the sidewalk areas? on Twitter Share Will the city plant more trees for shade along the sidewalk areas? on Linkedin Email Will the city plant more trees for shade along the sidewalk areas? link

    Will the city plant more trees for shade along the sidewalk areas?

    CW asked 3 months ago

    Yes. We worked with a landscape professional to select appropriate streetscape trees. Please see the rendering below.

  • Share Will sidewalks be improved to connect surrounding neighborhoods to downtown? on Facebook Share Will sidewalks be improved to connect surrounding neighborhoods to downtown? on Twitter Share Will sidewalks be improved to connect surrounding neighborhoods to downtown? on Linkedin Email Will sidewalks be improved to connect surrounding neighborhoods to downtown? link

    Will sidewalks be improved to connect surrounding neighborhoods to downtown?

    Liz asked 4 months ago

    This project focuses on the Downtown square area and will improve and widen sidewalks, making the area more walkable within the outlined project boundaries and a block north and south on Broadway Avenue.

     

  • Share Will there be a place to cool off as a family, like a splash pad since Tyler is so hot in the summer? on Facebook Share Will there be a place to cool off as a family, like a splash pad since Tyler is so hot in the summer? on Twitter Share Will there be a place to cool off as a family, like a splash pad since Tyler is so hot in the summer? on Linkedin Email Will there be a place to cool off as a family, like a splash pad since Tyler is so hot in the summer? link

    Will there be a place to cool off as a family, like a splash pad since Tyler is so hot in the summer?

    Morganne asked 5 months ago

    Because the new green space sits right in front of the courthouse, we felt it wasn’t the best place for swimwear, with many people visiting for official business. Instead, we’ll be adding large umbrellas in the southwest corner of the square to provide a shaded spot for relaxing. For splash pads and pool fun, the City offers five splash pads and a community pool. You can find locations and details at City Pool & Splashpads.

  • Share Will there be a public restroom added to the downtown area? on Facebook Share Will there be a public restroom added to the downtown area? on Twitter Share Will there be a public restroom added to the downtown area? on Linkedin Email Will there be a public restroom added to the downtown area? link

    Will there be a public restroom added to the downtown area?

    Drakear asked 5 months ago

    Yes, there will be public restrooms on the northwest corner of the square underneath the lifted green space. See the picture below! 

Page last updated: 12 Dec 2025, 03:30 PM