If you ask anyone in Tyler, Texas what frustrates them most, the answer is usually the same: traffic. Whether it’s due to distracted drivers, too many traffic lights, not enough lanes, or the absence of bridges, Tyler’s road issues are a hot topic among residents.
Now, things are about to slow down even more — thanks to the installation of a new traffic signal on Old Jacksonville Highway.
Where Is the New Traffic Signal Being Installed?
The new signal will be set up at the intersection of Old Jacksonville Highway (FM 2493) and Capital Drive. This location is part of a major north-south route connecting Tyler to Gresham, Flint, and Bullard. The stretch between Loop 323 and FM 346 is already heavily used and is planned to be expanded from 4 lanes to 6 lanes in the future.
Currently, Capital Drive ends in a T-junction at Old Jacksonville, but that will soon become a cross intersection. The Brookshire Grocery Company is moving its warehouse entrance to align with Capital Drive, which justifies the need for a traffic light at that point.
Why Is the New Signal Being Added?
A traffic study was done through private funding, which confirmed that traffic volume at this intersection requires a traffic signal. With the upcoming road expansion and the relocated warehouse entrance, the signal is needed to manage vehicle flow and reduce accident risk.
Who Is Paying for the Traffic Signal?
Interestingly, much of the cost is being privately funded. Here’s the breakdown:
Brookshire Grocery Company has paid for the engineering design and donated permanent steel mast arm traffic poles, valued at $128,547.
The total cost of the traffic signal project is estimated at $443,000. After accounting for donations, the City of Tyler will pay $314,453, which will be covered by the Half Cent Sales Tax fund.
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) will install the signal during the FM 2493 widening project.
When Will Construction Begin?
As of now, no timeline has been announced. The expansion of FM 2493 is scheduled for 2028 or later, so it’s unclear exactly when the signal will go up. But residents can expect more traffic slowdowns on this long and busy road in the near future.