As Downtown Tyler continues to evolve, the City of Tyler is taking steps to support and connect destinations in the heart of the City. The 2024 Railroad Crossing Improvements Project will upgrade three Downtown crossings at East Locust Street, East Ferguson Street and East Erwin Street that will need to be reconfigured to meet modern safety standards and support future two-way traffic patterns planned for the area. It also includes the East Lake Street crossing, which provides an important connection for drivers traveling between Downtown and the Midtown District. 

On Wednesday, Oct. 22, the City Council approved an agreement with Union Pacific Railroad to perform preliminary engineering services related to the project for $210,000. The agreement covers work such as field diagnostics, inspections, design reviews and cost estimates required before final design approval. These steps ensure the project meets Union Pacific’s engineering and safety standards, allowing the railroad to estimate its construction and equipment costs. 

In August 2024, the Council approved a design contract with HDR Engineering, Inc. In May 2025, an amendment was authorized for additional drainage design work.   

“Partnering with Union Pacific early in the process helps ensure that safety and efficiency remain at the center of this project as we prepare for long-term traffic improvements,” said Traffic Engineer Cameron Williams.

This project will also support the ongoing Downtown Improvement Project, which began construction in September 2025. Once completed, all streets surrounding the Square will operate as two-way, improving access and connectivity. Updating nearby railroad crossings now will ensure the infrastructure is ready for the new traffic patterns, helping create a safer and more connected transportation network for the community.  

Construction for the railroad crossings is anticipated to begin in 2028. The 2024 Railroad Crossing Improvement Project is funded through the Half Cent Sales Tax Fund.