Ongoing Project Aims to Improve Downtown Square

By LYDIA DOYLE/Contributor

The City of Tyler is moving forward with a downtown improvement project that will focus on updating infrastructure, enhancing pedestrian accessibility and refreshing public spaces.

What’s Happening

According to the City of Tyler’s Downtown Improvement Project, the goal is to create a more walkable, business-friendly environment that supports the city’s economic growth.

• The improvements are expected to be completed over a three year period.
• The improvements are a part of an effort to enhance Tyler’s appeal to citizens, visitors and small businesses.

What It Means

• Improved walkability will make downtown easier to navigate for residents and visitors.
• Local businesses may see an increase in foot traffic as public spaces become more inviting.

Reactions

Businesses and residents in downtown Tyler have mixed feelings about the ongoing construction tied to the improvement project.

• “Most people, when they see the fences up in front of the business, they assume we are closed,” said Taylor Florendo, a waitress at Rick’s on the Square.

This highlights the concerns about how the construction affects the number of customers downtown businesses are receiving.

Others have a more positive outlook on the long-term impact of the projects.

• “Good Lord’s got us this far I don’t think he will let us down now, we are actually excited about it,” said Steve Barnhart, owner of Prime 102, one of the restaurants on the square.

What’s Next

Planning and construction will continue as the city finalizes timelines and funding.

Residents can track updates with the construction through the City of Tyler’s Downtown Improvement Project website.