Brownsville completes phase 1 of uptown alley improvements; city updates on Houston Avenue right-of-way and storm response

City staff reported the completion of phase 1 of an uptown alley improvement project and outlined next steps for furnishings and short-term closures.

Tom Moore said phase 1 is officially finished; one planned ground-level mural was no longer being pursued and private partners have agreed to provide some furnishings. "We're officially finished with phase 1," Tom Moore said, and reported the city secured T-Mobile's agreement to allow placement of rustic-style barrels and that two benches have been ordered; staff expect to order one table if funds allow. He said the alley will be closed to traffic and outfitted with seating after Earth Day. The board asked staff to provide a specific installation date when available.

On Houston Avenue, community development staff reported they turned in right-of-way documentation to pursue certification with the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) and described planned outreach to affected property owners. The board also heard a report thanking public works, fire and public-safety staff for storm response; the presiding official and others praised round-the-clock work to restore streets, perform water rescues and remove debris.

No formal votes were taken on the alley or Houston Avenue items during the meeting.

City staff will return with dates and installation details for the alley furnishings and report back on TDOT certification progress.